GFFT Breaks Fundraising Record at A Starry Night of Giving Gala

Genesis Health Clubs Community “Goghs Big” to Support Thousands of Children

WICHITA, KS (December 1, 2025) – The Genesis Foundation for Fitness & Tennis (GFFT) celebrated a record-breaking year at its 8th Annual A Starry Night of Giving Gala, held on November 21, 2025, marking the most successful fundraising night since the foundation was established by Genesis Health Clubs nearly two decades ago.

Founded in 2006 by Genesis, GFFT was created to extend the club’s long-standing belief that every child deserves access to health, fitness, and opportunity. While the foundation now operates independently under a volunteer board, Genesis members, employees, partners, and leadership remain the driving force behind its mission and its impact.

This year’s record-breaking generosity will support thousands of children across thirteen states through GFFT’s core programs: providing brand-new athletic shoes through Kicks for Kids, delivering comfortable beds to families in crisis, expanding after-school tennis and mentoring programs, supporting families through Christmas for Kids, and awarding community grants that promote youth wellness and physical activity.

“This community showed up in a way that truly humbles me,” said Rodney Steven II, Co-Chairman of the Board and President/Owner of Genesis Health Clubs. “GFFT was created through Genesis to give kids a chance, and seeing our members, staff, friends, and supporters rally like this is unbelievable. We asked everyone to ‘Gogh Big,’ and they did. The impact will reach thousands of children who need it most.”

The event featured a vibrant program, guest speakers, and a high-energy live auction with exclusive items such as a private-jet Riviera Maya getaway, a Kansas City Chiefs VIP Suite Experience, and a guided duck hunt and cabin retreat with Rodney Steven II. Supporters had additional opportunities to give through a well-appointed silent auction, trip giveaways, and much more.

“Every child we serve is a masterpiece and the gala proved how many people believe in helping those masterpieces shine,” said DeAnn White, Executive Director of GFFT. “Genesis built this foundation to lift children who need it most, and the event showed just how deeply that mission runs throughout the Genesis family and our surrounding communities.”

For Genesis Health Clubs, the foundation remains an extension of its commitment to strengthening families, supporting youth development, and improving the well-being of every community it serves. The record-breaking results of this year’s gala continue that legacy in an extraordinary way.

To learn more or support the mission, visit https://www.genesisfoundationwichita.com/