children's brain tumor foundation
DREAM MAKERS GALAJoin us on October 16, 2025, at Pier Sixty, NYC, for the Dream Makers Gala, presented by CBTF. This inspiring evening honors the resilience of children and families facing brain and spinal cord tumors while raising crucial funds for research, support, and advocacy. Be part of the mission—bring hope and make dreams possible.
Honorees
At the Dream Makers Gala, we celebrate a distinguished group of leaders whose groundbreaking work in pediatric brain and spinal cord tumor research has transformed countless lives. Our honorees include visionary clinicians, dedicated researchers, and passionate advocates who have devoted their careers to improving outcomes for children and families facing these challenging diagnoses. Their tireless commitment, innovative spirit, and collaborative efforts not only advance critical treatment and care but also inspire hope in communities nationwide. As you explore each bio, join us in recognizing and honoring these remarkable individuals whose contributions continue to shape a brighter, healthier future for all.
Jeffrey H. Wisoff, MD
Recipient of the Leary Legacy Award
Dr. Jeffrey Wisoff retired after a 40-year career in pediatric and congenital neurosurgery at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital. A founding member and longtime Director of NYU’s Pediatric Neurosurgery Division, he made groundbreaking contributions to brain tumor treatment and neurosurgical advancements. A leader in the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) for over 30 years, he led a major international study on pediatric brain tumors and published over 200 scientific works. Widely recognized for his expertise, he has held key leadership roles, lectured globally, and received numerous honors, including the 2024 Franz Ingraham Lifetime Achievement Award.
Erin Crotty, M.D.
Recipient of the Trailblazer Award
Dr. Crotty is a pediatric neuro-oncologist at Seattle Children’s Hospital and an Assistant Professor at the University of Washington. She specializes in treating brain and spinal cord tumors and leads clinical oncology for the Retinoblastoma Program. Her research focuses on developing immunotherapies and precision medicine for hard-to-treat pediatric tumors, supported by a CBTF grant and the Children’s Cancer Research Fund Emerging Scientist Award. She is a key investigator in international collaborations, advancing liquid biopsy techniques and new clinical trials to improve outcomes for young patients.
Childhood Brain and Spinal Tumors Can’t Wait
Every child and family affected by a brain or spinal cord tumor deserves immediate support, hope, and a path forward. Your involvement—whether through advocacy, donations, or partnerships—helps drive meaningful change. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
Download your Sponsorship Packet
In our sponsorship packet, you’ll find a range of opportunities to support the Dream Makers Gala, including detailed sponsorship levels, exclusive benefits, and ways to make a meaningful impact. Sponsorship plays a vital role in helping us fund essential programs and services for families affected by pediatric brain tumors—your support brings hope, care, and community when it’s needed most.
Counting Down to Make a Difference
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Our Goal
Supporting Families
Families facing a brain tumor diagnosis need more than medical care—they need emotional support, resources, and a strong community. Our programs provide direct assistance, ensuring no family faces this journey alone.
finding a cure
Research is the key to better treatments and, ultimately, a cure for pediatric brain tumors. By funding innovative studies and breakthrough therapies, we bring hope to children and families worldwide.
driving awareness
Raising public awareness is crucial to securing funding, advancing research, and advocating for families. Through survivor stories and education, we amplify the urgent need for support.
lifelong care & legacy
The impact of a brain tumor lasts a lifetime, whether through survivorship or remembrance. We provide ongoing resources, community, and opportunities for survivors while honoring the legacies of those we have lost.
Event Timeline
The night begins at 6:00 PM with a cocktail reception, where guests will sip, mingle, and enjoy delicious bites, all while being inspired by moving performances from families. A warm welcome sets the stage for a night of generosity, followed by an exciting live auction and powerful stories of resilience and hope from our keynote speakers. We’ll close with a heartfelt send-off, celebrating our collective impact, and a sweet finale of decadent desserts, concluding the evening at 9:00 PM.
Dream Makers Auction
The Dream Makers Gala auction is a meaningful way to support children and families affected by pediatric brain tumors. Featuring a curated selection of unique items and experiences, every bid helps fund critical programs and services provided by the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation. Whether you’re donating or bidding, your participation brings hope and care to those who need it most.
Auction Committee
Our auction for the Dream Makers Gala is overseen by Auction Committee Chairs, Ginny Schulman and Cheryl Coutts. Ginny serves on the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation Board of Directors and is a longtime CBTF volunteer. Cheryl is the mother of a pediatric brain tumor survivor and a committed member of the CBTF Endurance Team. Together, they lead the planning and procurement of auction items with dedication, insight, and a shared commitment to supporting families impacted by pediatric brain tumors.
Donate an Auction Item
Interested in donating to our auction? Reach out to holly@cbtf.org to contribute a package or unique experience. All proceeds will support CBTF’s mission and the families we serve. Be sure to check back often—exclusive new items will be added as the event approaches. The deadline for auction item submissions is October 1, 2025.
Auction Items
Check back soon to explore an incredible selection of auction items available at the Dream Makers Gala. If you’re interested in donating an item to support our mission, complete the contact form below—we’d love to hear from you!
Inquire about the Gala
Have questions about the Dream Makers Gala? Reach out to learn more about sponsorships, tickets, and ways to get involved!