The West Austin Youth Association (WAYA) celebrated its biggest annual fundraiser, Family Day, on April 17, drawing more than 1,200 guests and surpassing its $600,000 fundraising goal. Proceeds from this community-focused festival are vital to sustaining WAYA's beloved kids' programs, sports leagues, preschool, camps, and longstanding presence in West Austin.
This year's event was made possible by primary sponsors Dell Children's Medical Center and Tarrytown Pharmacy, along with the generous support of major sponsors ABC Home and Commercial Services, the Tito & Lori Beverage Family, Latham & Watkins LLP, the Moulton Family, BKCW Insurance (Meredith and Tyler Spears), H-E-B, and Supergoop! Individual contributions from WAYA's loyal supporters further reflected the community's shared commitment to keeping WAYA a vital resource for area children and families.
"We are incredibly grateful that the Austin community continues to believe in our mission to provide kids a fun and safe environment to play and build community," said Emily Freeman, WAYA's Development Director.
Leading the charge this year were Family Day Chairs Meredith Spears, Jessica Pieratt, Jennah Granger, and Wesley Joseph, who shaped the 2026 celebration around the theme "Everybody is Somebody at WAYA”.
Festivities featured bouncy castles, obstacle courses, carnival rides, a water slide, a mechanical bull, face painting, and catering from Austin favorites: Tiff’s Treats, Sno Ride, Juiceland, Mighty Fine Burgers, and H-E-B catering. Live music, provided by Mr. Will and his band, along with DJ Hear No Evil, kept the event lively, while children ran freely across the safe haven of WAYA's recently renovated Brumley Field.
"Family Day was an amazing evening that truly brought our community together," said Family Day Chair Jessica Pieratt. "While the beautiful weather, vendors, new turf, and entertainment were wonderful, it was really the people in attendance who made the event so special."
Now in its 46th year, WAYA serves more than 16,000 kids from 50 different zip codes. Its sports programs include recreational basketball, flag football, soccer, volleyball, baseball, lacrosse, and more. The WAYA Preschool serves over 150 families through a play-based curriculum, rounding out the organization's broader mission to provide the best athletic, recreational, and educational experience possible to help every child reach their highest potential.
Family Day 2026 would not have been possible without the many community volunteers, WAYA staff and board members, and generous sponsors, all fueled by the smiles and laughter of the children who turned out for what has become a "can't miss" West Austin tradition.
For more information or to donate, visit www.waya.org.
