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Hanna Perkins Center for Child Development “Harvest Homecoming”

BY ANDREA C. TURNER
Nov. 18, 2025

The Hanna Perkins Center for Child Development hosted its biennial Harvest Homecoming benefit under a large white tent on the Center’s grounds in Shaker Heights’ Malvern neighborhood.

More than 150 guests gathered for fall cocktails prior to a sit-down dinner, presenta-tion celebrating 7 5 years, and a live and silent auction. The event helped to raise $290,000 to support the nonprofit’s work for young children.

Since its beginnings, Hanna Perkins has honored the emotional lives of children and helps them grow into confident, compas-sionate, and resilient individuals. Children build the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges, fo1m healthy relationships, and discover who they are.

To kick things off, Rique Sollisch engaged the group in a heaitfelt singalong on guitar- a song she’s taught to preschool children about feeling each emotion. Board President Mary Reed opened with remarks celebrating the care, growth, and community that reflects the Hanna Perkins promise.

Jennifer Hanis, the organization’s new CEO, asse11ed that at Hanna Perkins, “parents aren’t left to struggle in the dark, and no family feels alone.”

Allie Hadden Hamia presented the Hadden Award (named in honor of her late parents Elaine G. “Lainie” and Dr. John A. Hadden) to retired CEO Karen Baer (from 2012-2025) and longtime board member and co-trustee of the Perkins Charitable Foundation, Tod Oliva for their longtime contributions.

During the closing moments, Sheldon and Terry Adelman announced a philan-thropic gift of $100,000 in honor of Baer. This contribution is designated to provide financial assistance to children in need who are served by Hanna Perkins School and the Hadden Clinic for Children & Families. The Adelmans’ gift reflects their ongoing commitment to the emotional well-being and developmental needs of young children. It will assist families facing financial barriers through scholarships, ensuring access to the specialized care and education that Hanna Perkins provides.

Cocktail hour music was provided by the Rifferees with Jim Wright on saxophone, Jason She1man on drnms, David Rothenberg on Keyboard, Bob Rosenbaum on saxophone, and Dave Huddleston on bass.

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANDREA C. TURNER