"Better" Article

“On Oct. 17, 2019, the AKR Foundation hosted its first benefit, the Yellow Umbrella Party, at Park West in Chicago. The event not only raised money for childhood literacy and ovarian cancer research, detection, and awareness — it also celebrated Krouse Rosenthal’s work and her characteristic spontaneity, creativity, and wonder. The term “yellow umbrella” came from her video “17 Things I Made,” where she invited strangers to meet her at the Chicago Bean, where she would be holding a yellow umbrella.

Guests were delightfully surprised by the participation of Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild award-winning film and television star Jennifer Garner. Garner is set to produce and star in a movie based on “Yes Day!,” a children’s book authored by Krouse Rosenthal and illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld. Garner told benefit attendees that she felt deeply connected to “Yes Day!” and has adopted the practice of scheduling a yearly yes day with her three children. Garner also read aloud “Yes Day!” and two other essays from “Textbook Amy Krouse Rosenthal” to guests.”