Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition Logo

Hope in a Handbag

How to Get Involved

Becoming a Hope in a Handbag sponsor connects you with 300+ influential, well-connected guests—and thousands more through our powerful multichannel reach. With nearly 23,000 engaged social media followers, 12,200 email subscribers, and marketing exposure to over 40,000 individuals, your support goes further than a single night.

Join us in making a powerful impact, making sure your brand is seen, celebrated, and aligned with a powerful cause.

Become a Sponsor

We are seeking donations of new or gently loved designer handbags and jewelry to feature in our silent auction. Your generous contribution will directly support our mission, ensuring foster and adoptive children receive essential resources and support.

Accepted Donations

  • New or gently loved designer handbags*
  • New or gently loved fine or on-trend jewelry

All donations must be received by April 1, 2026.

Why Donate?

  • Your donation will help change the lives of children impacted by foster care
  • Your contribution is tax-deductible
  • You’ll be part of a prestigious event that blends luxury with philanthropy

How to Donate

Donating is easy! Simply drop off your donations to the Coalition M-F 8:30 am to 4:30 pm:

Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition
1750 S. Brentwood Blvd., Suite 210, St. Louis, MO 63144

If you would like to schedule a drop off outside of business hours, please call (314) 806-2525 or email events@foster-adopt.org. Thank you for your generosity and support! 

Download Printable PDF

2026 Hope in a Handbag Committee Member Responsibilities

  • Give or get at least 8-10 bags and/or jewelry
  • Join a handbag team (Boss Babe, Jet, Set, Go!, Sunkissed & Stylish, Glitz & Glam,
    All In the Family, Frost Yourself, Buy It Now, and Mystery Bags)
  • Tasks within your team:
    • Prepare each donated item to be presented at the highest quality for maximum profitability
    • Clean, stuff, and prepare handbags for display
    • Organize and maintain the presentation of handbag donations

Member Responsibilities: Day of the Event

  • Create a visually appealing showcase of handbags to enhance fundraising potential, within the visual display guidelines
  • Design and arrange the display of your handbag section
  • Coordinate decor, lighting, and set up to enhance the guest experience

Other Member Responsibilities

  • Personally thank auction donors
  • Invite guests to attend the event
  • Attend at least 50% of the committee meetings
  • If possible, help secure sponsorships
  • Promote the event within your personal and professional networks
  • Have fun while supporting an important cause
Download Printable PDF

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2026 Hope in a Handbag Co-Chairs

Niki Sullivan-Handshy

Cindy Underwood-Oleshak

2026 Hope in a Handbag Committee

Melissa Bailey

Aimée Bergan

Elizabeth Berges

Melanie Brasier

Alisse Camazine

Laura Dobsch

Katie Doggendorf

Jessica Edwards

Lisa Forsyth

Veronica Grimes

Elizabeth Huff

LaShonda Lambert-Howze

Karen Mac Wallach

Jinea Meyer

Tendai Morris

Amanda Nelson

Anna Phan

Bianca Resch

Kayte E. Rossi

Michelle Shelton

Ali Siegel

Danielle Singer

Pat Slodkowski

Patti Sutherlin

Kate Turner

Laura Washburn

Hope in a Handbag Legacy Members

Holly Demerath

Debbie Genung

Jackie Knolhoff

Connie Lohr

Laura Lueken

Jennifer Lynch

Melody Noel

Christine Pennell

Jackie Olinger Rochelle

Lauren Sczurko

Alison Shubert

Ashley Silverman

Cari Wegge

Thank You To Our Sponsors

Your support brings comfort, style, and impact to this event—from exclusive VIP experiences to making a difference in the lives of children impacted by foster care. We’re grateful for your partnership.

Presenting Sponsor

VIP Lounge Sponsor

Section Sponsors

Luxe Sponsors

Scott Credit Union

Vantage Credit Union

Cass Information Systems

Iconic Sponsors


Marsh & McLennan Companies Sponsor

Marsh & McLennan Companies

Chic Sponsors

Ahrens Contracting, Inc.

Debbie Genung & Holly Demerath

Jenny Fanson

Mary & John Gunther

Melanie Scheetz & Bruce Reed

Niki Sullivan-Handshy & Don Handshy

Sarah Wendt

U.S. Bank