Help Me Make CF Stand for Cure Found
Joy Ames
I'm honored to be one of Austin's Finest — join me in raising funds and hope for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
My Story
I first learned what it really means to live with cystic fibrosis through my close friend, Patrice. We met almost nine years ago at a networking event, where she complimented me on my dress and asked if I liked sushi. We've been besties ever since — traveling coast to coast together, laughing until we've cried, and going to more concerts than I can count. Watching her navigate CF with courage — and last year, watching her raise over $13,000 as one of Austin's Finest herself — showed me exactly what this community is capable of when it comes together.
Cystic Fibrosis means daily treatments, constant vigilance against infection, and a fight that doesn't pause. But because of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's research, kids born with CF today can expect to live decades longer than they could just a generation ago. That progress isn't automatic — it's funded, one gift at a time.
This year, I've been nominated as one of Austin's Finest, and I'm all in. My goal is to raise $10,000 for the CF Foundation. Over the next few months I'm hosting a few of my favorite things — flowers, pottery, and a good old-fashioned neighborhood hangout — all in service of one goal: helping the CF Foundation make CF stand for Cure Found. I'd love for you to join me, in whatever way fits.
With gratitude,
Joy
Ways to Get Involved
(Five entry points — pick your favorite, or do them all)
🌸 Bloom & Brunch
Spend a Saturday morning making your own seasonal arrangement in a vase to take home, over brunch with a great cause behind it. Hosted with my friend and floral designer Stephanie Solomon, owner of The Austin Aromatic. $85/person; date to be confirmed — Saturday morning.
🏺 Bowl & Board
Hand-build 2-3 small pinch pots — perfect for sauces, spices, or trinkets — while sipping wine and snacking on charcuterie at Broad Studio Clubhouse. Hand-paint your pieces or dunk them in a glaze; everything comes back glaze-fired, food- and dishwasher-safe. No experience needed. $85/person; date to be confirmed — Sunday evening.
🐾 Enzo's Paws & Pours
My dog, Enzo, is kind of a neighborhood celebrity, and he's putting his fame to good use. Join us for lemonade, beer, popcorn, yard games, and dog-friendly fun on the block. Date to be confirmed.
🎉 Backyard Ball
This is where it all comes together. Join me and the whole Austin's Finest community for the 9th Annual Backyard Ball — an evening of backyard bites, craft drinks, live music, dueling pianos, and a silent auction full of fun finds, all in celebration of this year's Honorees.
Thursday, October 15, 2026 · 7:00pm · Springdale Station
💛 Make a Donation
Can't make it to an event, or just want to jump straight to impact? Every gift — big or small — helps me get closer to my $10,000 goal, and goes directly toward CF research, care, and the pursuit of a cure. Many employers match employee donations, so check with yours; it could double your gift.
Thank you
Every RSVP, every gift, every share brings us one step closer to a cure — and to a future where CF really does stand for Cure Found. I'm so grateful to have you along for this.
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