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11 San Diego Charity Events to Attend in May

Here’s where to celebrate, connect, give back, and make a difference this month
Courtesy of Father Joe's Village

Home of Guiding Hands Legends Among Us: Rockin’ for a Cause Gala 

May 2

Home of Guiding Hands will host its Legends Among Us: Rockin’ for a Cause Gala at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego. Now in its 52nd year, the gala will honor San Diegans who have made a lasting impact for adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

San Diego Humane Society Walk for Animals

May 2

Thousands of animal lovers will help the San Diego Humane Society make a difference for more than 40,000 animals in need at the 32nd annual Walk for Animals. The family- and dog-friendly event at NTC Park in Liberty Station includes a pancake breakfast, live music, and a vendor village.

Father Joe’s Villages Children’s Champions Gala & Match Challenge

May 2

Father Joe’s Villages will host its 41st annual Children’s Champions Gala & Match Challenge at the US Grant. Supporters are invited to attend the gala or make a meaningful gift to the campaign, or both, to help San Diego families move from crisis toward self-sufficiency. 

Junior League of San Diego Party for a Purpose: Jewels of the Cosmos

May 2

Junior League of San Diego will host its largest annual fundraiser Party for a Purpose: Jewels of the Cosmos at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. The celestial-inspired evening will support Junior League of San Diego’s efforts to combat food insecurity across San Diego County.

St. Germaine Children’s Charity Cocktails & Conversation

May 7

St. Germaine Children’s Charity will highlight one of its grant recipients, The Chadwick Center for Children and Families at Rady Children’s Hospital, at its spring Cocktails & Conversation. The goal of the event at a private home in La Jolla is to help members better understand the impact of their donations. 

ArtReach’s Golden Hour Fundraiser

May 7

ArtReach will debut a new event, Golden Hour, to showcase the talents of its young members and support its programs. The nonprofit’s Hillcrest studio will be transformed into a gallery filled with creativity, music, and community, all built around the theme Made in San Diego. 

San Diego River Park Foundation River Days 5K Walk for Wildlife 

May 9

Support wildlife conservation in the San Diego River Watershed at the San Diego River Park Foundation’s 2026 River Days 5K Walk for Wildlife. The walk and fun run at the Riverwalk Golf Club is family- and dog-friendly. 

Arc of San Diego Annual Gala  

May 16

Arc of San Diego will celebrate joie de vivre and the enchantment, wonder, and the spirit of giving that often comes with it at its 2026 Annual Gala. The elegant event at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina will benefit children and adults with disabilities served by the Arc of San Diego.

La Jolla Historical Society Secret Garden Tour 

May 16

The La Jolla Historical Society will give guests exclusive access to six of La Jolla’s most extraordinary private gardens at its 27th annual Secret Garden Tour. This year, guests have the opportunity to add a “lunch and learn” experience which includes a buffet lunch at a historic site and a session with a master gardener. 

St. Madeline Sophie’s Center 60th Anniversary Fundraiser

May 16

St. Madeline Sophie’s Center will celebrate its 60th anniversary with a California Dreamin’ themed fundraiser in its headquarters’ two-acre garden. Proceeds from the event will benefit the nonprofit’s gardening and aquatics programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

McAlister Institute Miracles of Recovery Luncheon

May 19

Community leaders, advocates, and people in recovery will gather for an inspiring afternoon hosted by nonprofit substance use disorder treatment provider, the McAlister Institute. At its ninth annual Miracles of Recovery Luncheon at Coasterra, the McAlister Institute will honor those who have made an impact for individuals and families affected by substance use disorders through service, philanthropy, and advocacy.

By Sarah Sapeda

Sarah Sapeda is San Diego Magazine’s Custom Content Editor. In her 15 years in San Diego journalism, she has covered charitable events, health care, education, crime, current events, and more.

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