In between hard work, the World Pediatric Project and its junior board know how to throw a good Richmond party. In fact, the nonprofit invited around 500 of its closest friends to a gathering this spring to benefit its work in providing critical lifesaving care to children in developing countries. Presented by Northwestern Mutual and First Tennessee Bank, the annual Rock ‘N Heal celebration brought together some of Richmond’s favorite businesses and people, this year alone raising approximately $200,000 to help give hundreds of children first-time access to critical medical care.

During the event, attendees enjoyed performances by pop group Snack Bar Jones and a silent auction with items donated from popular Richmond businesses and community members like Ardent Craft Ales and Shockoe Denim. With catering by Zoe’s Kitchen, which recently opened a location in Willow Lawn, and beer sponsored by Hardywood, the gathering was the perfect storm of support from the Richmond community.

The organization, which played a key role in bringing conjoined twins Maria and Teresa to Richmond in 2011, depends on fundraising events like Rock ‘N Heal to help accomplish its mission. “World Pediatric Project’s vision is that every child, regardless of geography, will have access to lifesaving critical care. We couldn’t do this without the Richmond community’s generosity during events like these,” says World Pediatric Project CEO, Susan Rickman.