There's no question, non-profit organizations, foundations and charities are vying for your support this year. But there is one event in particular, which for the last decade has opened my eyes not only to the fight but to the need as well.

Kathy's Garden Party is an authentically local event dedicated to supporting women and children fighting cancer. This year, they've created "All Dolled Up," an art and fashion runway show inspired by Barbie's 50th birthday.

The first show, held at the Kneeland Walker Mansion in 1998, flaunted creative hats in the lush garden, a small gathering of family and friends embracing the idea of rebirth. Eleven years and seven events later, the Garden Party has grown to elevate both the scale of the show and the depth of their impact.

Receiving artistic donations from around the world, Kathy's Garden Party Committee and the subsequently created Grace Foundation, have been able to serve hundreds of women and children battling cancer.

This year's event features artwork highlighting 50 years of Barbie; a silent auction, live auction and runway show accompany heavy appetizers and a cash bar.

Unlike any other program in the city, The Grace Foundation runs the Glad Hatter program at Froedert and Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare- St. Joseph Hospitals. This program provides women and children with handmade, soft, whimsical hats as well as financial support. Their efforts are as much an endeavor to ease and comfort as they are to heal and cure.

Want to see your donation at work? The Grace Space, located in the lobby of Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare- St. Joseph Hospital, is a warm and comfortable space for patients and families to relax, research and talk.

This year's event will be at the Pritzlaff Building, 325 N. Plankinton Ave. on Nov. 7. Tickets can be purchased in advance on The Grace Foundation's Web site or by calling (414) 573-1185.