StandUp for Kids – Orange County
With an ambitious goal of raising $200,000 at our 5th annual Gala, we exceeded our goal by $3,000, totaling $203,000! Raising these funds would not have been possible without all our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests that attended the Gala on September 30th. Hosted at the beautiful Colony House in Anaheim, we celebrated the night at the inside and outdoor venue.
The silent auction offered various items, including sporting events, art and photography, jewelry and accessories, and luxury getaway packages. Our guests enjoyed a night of dancing, socializing, and coming together to support youth experiencing homelessness.
Guest speakers from the night included Heaven and Chief, two youths whom our programs have positively impacted. Heaven talked about how her mentor at StandUp for Kids, Leslie, has been an individual she has relied on over the past couple of years as she has faced different challenges. Heaven also shared that she has recently signed a lease to an apartment which she didn’t think was possible! With the help of her mentor, Heaven has been able to achieve more than she ever thought.
Chief mentioned his life story and how the help at StandUp for Kids saved him from lots of potential future trouble that could have been due to the habits he was forming. StandUp for Kids pushed him in a positive direction, and since then, he has been able to turn his life around and create positive life changes and habits that will prosper his future. Heaven and Chief’s stories are made possible because of supporters like you!
With an attendance of 201 people, we look back on the Gala as a night to remember. To everyone who attended, we are beyond grateful for your presence that night. And to everyone who could not attend but supported us in any other way, we are also thankful for you and your commitment to our mission. All that we do to serve the youth of Orange County could not happen without you!
You can get involved and support StandUp for Kids by volunteering and or becoming a donor. Check out our website to see ways you can help youth experiencing homelessness. If you did not get the chance to attend the Gala this year, we would love to see you next year!