Magic Made for Good

It was a wicked good time. Nearly 700 community members and families attended an exclusive early screening of “Wicked: For Good,” the highly anticipated sequel to the box office hit “Wicked.” The November fundraiser, hosted by the Phoenix Children’s Corporate Executive & Champions Council, raised $155,345 for pediatric behavioral health initiatives.

The event at Harkins Theatres Camelview at Fashion Square offered an Oz-themed preshow experience in the lobby, including complimentary popcorn, a choice of Wicked-themed cocktail or mocktail, fun photo opportunities, activities and more. Guests were also treated to gift bags containing Wicked-themed items, gift cards and more

Established in 2022, the Corporate Executive & Champions Council comprises 30 representatives from companies across the Valley that support Phoenix Children’s. The group leads one major fundraiser per year. This year’s fundraiser is a sequel to last year’s early screening of “Wicked,” which raised more than $130,000.

Council members led efforts to gather gift bag items and sponsorships and helped drive ticket sales. As a Phoenix Children’s partner, Harkins Theatres donated the space, designed and created the event decor, and worked with Universal Pictures to secure approval for the screening.

“Harkins Theatres is a proud supporter of Phoenix Children’s, and I, along with the rest of the Harkins team, am honored to have hosted the ‘Wicked: For Good’ experience in support of the behavioral health program,” says Jessica Reeves, vice president of marketing for Harkins Theatres and a Council member. “Being a part of the Corporate Executive and Champions Council is a true privilege, and working alongside the talented professionals on this Council to create an event that brought people together and raised much-needed funds for Phoenix Children’s was an incredible experience.”

Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors and our Council members, the event will help Phoenix Children’s expand essential behavioral health services so children facing a mental health challenge have timely access to support, treatment and hope—a community effort truly for good.