WALKER — Launch Therapy Center marked a historic fundraising milestone at its annual gala, raising more than $175,000 to fund critical pediatric therapy services for families across Livingston Parish and surrounding areas.

The sold-out "Calling All Superheroes" gala, held on Oct. 15 at the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office Training Center, drew 350 guests for the nonprofit’s most successful fundraiser to date. Presented by Cajun Industries, LLC, the superhero-themed evening featured live and silent auctions, raffles and entertainment aimed at expanding care for local children regardless of their families' ability to pay.

"This event was about so much more than raising money. It was about a community coming together and showing our children and families that they have an entire team of superheroes standing behind them," said Chantelle Varnado, Founder and Executive Director of Launch Therapy Center.

Founded in 2015, Launch provides speech, occupational, physical and feeding therapies. With roughly 72% of its patients covered by Medicaid, the nonprofit relies heavily on community backing to bridge shortfalls caused by insurance denials, coverage limits, and unreimbursed care. The record-setting proceeds will help reduce service backlogs and expand access for hundreds of children currently waiting for therapy.

To learn more or support the mission, visit launchpeds.com.