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Charitable SD SEPTEMBER 21, 2026

Preserving Military History Aboard the USS Midway Museum

More than 750 volunteers help support the decommissioned aircraft carrier and share its “Midway Magic” with over 1 million guests each year

Preserving Military History Aboard the USS Midway Museum
Courtesy of USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway has a storied history. The longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century has served as a home base for helicopters carrying fleeing refugees during the fall of Saigon, played a key role in developing naval missile warfare, and evacuated civilian personnel after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines. The Midway was decommissioned in 1992 and today stands as a monument to military history, drawing more than 1 million visitors each year. Its team of more than 750 volunteers supports this mission, doing everything from leading tours to controlling corrosion to operating HAM radio. Among them is Paul “Chappie” Ward, who has clocked more than 12,000 volunteer hours at the museum since 2018. Here, he details how he helps “bring history to life.” 

*Responses edited for length and clarity.  

San Diego nonprofit organization Homes for Wounded Warriors

How did you first get involved with the USS Midway Museum?

My connection to the USS Midway Museum began in 2010, when my wife and I came to San Diego for a Civil Air Patrol conference. My wife Nan and I had wanted to live in San Diego since vacationing here over the years, so San Diego was always on our radar. A couple of days before the conference began, my oldest son, his father-in-law, and I toured the Midway and I was immediately inspired by the experience. I remember telling Nan on the trip home that if we ever retired to San Diego, I would love to become involved with the Midway. In the subsequent years, our two granddaughters were born. In 2017, we retired and moved from San Luis Obispo to be closer to family. Nan reminded me of what I had said years earlier and encouraged me to follow through. I joined Docent Class #57 in January 2018, earned my “yellow hat” [upon completing the training] that March, and have been proud to be part of the Midway ever since.

What do your duties entail? 

The Midway offers an incredible range of ways to serve, and I’ve had the privilege of contributing to five teams while also serving as the museum’s volunteer chaplain. As a docent, I bring the ship’s history to life through stories and guided experiences. With Guest Services, I help visitors plan their time aboard and make the most of their visit. On the Exhibits team, I help ensure the displays tell the Midway’s story accurately and meaningfully. Along with other members of the Library/Curatorial team, I research and provide information to former Midway sailors and their family members. Through Outreach and the Speakers Bureau, I represent the museum at community events, parades, and service clubs. I also administer the Midway Sailors Program Facebook group, where former crewmembers can reconnect with one another and with the ship. As chaplain, I help plan and officiate celebrations of life and weddings, and I offer invocations and benedictions at special events aboard the Midway. 

What do you like best about volunteering for the Midway?

What I value most is what we call “Midway Magic.” It’s hard to define, but you feel it the moment you step aboard—the camaraderie among staff and volunteers, the shared passion for the ship, and the commitment to giving every guest an unforgettable experience.

At the end of the day, there is deep satisfaction in knowing you helped preserve and share something important. The Midway is “America’s Living Symbol of Freedom,” and we have the privilege of honoring the more than 200,000 people who served aboard her during 47 years of service, from the end of World War II through the Persian Gulf War. Sharing their service and sacrifice with my granddaughters and with visitors from around the world is one of the greatest rewards of volunteering here.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced?

My biggest challenge was simply wondering if I could do this. I came from the civilian world as a retired pastor and former computer IT professional with a law enforcement agency. I had also served as a volunteer chaplain with the Civil Air Patrol, the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary, but I was not a veteran and had no Navy background. Stepping onto a Navy ship and learning its systems, language, and culture was a real adjustment. What made the difference was the Midway’s commitment to training and mentorship. Every department gives volunteers the knowledge, resources, and hands-on support they need to succeed. Docents, for example, complete a seven-week course combined with on-the-job training with experienced volunteers. Over time, I learned, grew, and found my place. More than 12,000 volunteer hours later, I can confidently say that I could do it, and so can others who are willing to learn.

Can you describe your favorite or most memorable moment or experience while volunteering?    

One of my most memorable experiences began in April 2025, when a former Midway sailor contacted me through the Facebook group I administer. During Operation Desert Storm, his wife had sent him a birthday card. As he was preparing to leave Yokosuka in 1991, the card slipped behind a desk in his stateroom and disappeared into a narrow space. His wife passed away in 2015, and he told me how much it would mean to hold that card again and share it with their daughter. I reached out to the Safety Office, and when he returned to the Midway on April 30, our team worked a little “Midway Magic.” With access to the stateroom and help moving the desk, we found the card and placed it back in his hands. After 34 years, he was able to share it with his daughter, Cheryl. It was a powerful reminder that this ship holds not only history, but deeply personal stories that are still unfolding.

Any advice for someone considering volunteering as a way to give back?

Start by finding a cause or organization that genuinely aligns with your interests and values. Then take the time to learn its story, understand its purpose, and get involved. The more you invest, the more meaningful the experience becomes—not only for the people you serve, but for you as well. Volunteering is a powerful way to give back, build community, and discover just how much you have to offer.

Sarah Sapeda

About 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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Charitable SD SEPTEMBER 21, 2026

In Photos: The Country Friends’ Art of Fashion

The 72-year-old nonprofit hosted its annual Art of Fashion runway show and luncheon, with proceeds benefiting dozens of local nonprofits

In Photos: The Country Friends’ Art of Fashion
Photo Credit: Melissa Jacobs

Giving back is always in fashion. The Country Friends, a 72-year-old nonprofit that fundraises for charitable causes, hosted its annual Art of Fashion runway show and luncheon at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe on September 10. Models showcased the latest designer looks from Balmain, Camilla, Eleventy, Eres, Ferragamo, Lanvin, Max Mara, and Monique Lhuillier, while guests shopped mini-boutiques set up by event partner South Coast Plaza, participated in a live auction, and dined on a three-course luncheon. Proceeds from the event will support dozens of local nonprofits that provide assistance to women, children, seniors, military families, and people with disabilities. To date, The Country Friends has provided more than $15 million to San Diego-based charities.

Photo Credit: Melissa Jacobs

Sarah Sapeda

About 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.

Charitable SD SEPTEMBER 17, 2026

8 Charitable Events to Attend in October

Here’s where to celebrate, connect, give back, and make a difference this month

8 Charitable Events to Attend in October
Courtesy of Robin’s Nest Rescue

October 2: Drew Brees Celebrity Pickleball Tournament

Former NFL quarterback Drew Brees will host a slew of celebrity athletes, chefs, and other hunger-relief supporters for a Celebrity Pickleball Tournament to raise money for Feeding San Diego. The tournament at the Barnes Tennis Center in Point Loma is part of the Del Mar Wine & Food Festival, which has raised more than $100,000 for Feeding San Diego and other local nonprofit organizations since 2023.

October 3: Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute Illumination Gala

Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute will celebrate 50 years of groundbreaking research at its Illumination Gala at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Support from the gala will help Sanford Burnham Prebys continue to advance medicine and change lives.  

Courtesy of San Diego Humane Society

October 3: San Diego Humane Society’s 40th Annual Fur Ball

San Diego Humane Society supporters—both people and pets—will get dressed to the nines for the 40th annual Fur Ball. Proceeds from the event at San Diego Humane Society’s Gaines Street campus will support the organization’s efforts to care for more than 40,000 animals each year. 

October 3: Voices for Children Starry Starry Night Gala

Voices for Children will celebrate the impact of its Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) at its Starry Starry Night Gala on the Heron Lawn at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. The 46-year-old organization is the only agency in the county designated to provide CASAs to advocate for local foster children.

October 3: Autism Society of San Diego Diamond Anniversary Gala 

Show off your sparkle at the Autism Society of San Diego Diamond Anniversary Gala at the Town & Country Resort. The nonprofit will celebrate six decades of service with dinner, entertainment, and special guests.   

October 11: Robin’s Nest Rescue Rockin’ Robin Music Fest

More than 30 performers will take the stage to support Robin’s Nest Rescue at its fourth annual Rockin’ Robin Music Fest. The five-acre animal sanctuary in Ramona will also celebrate America’s 250th birthday, showcase local artisans, and introduce guests to some of its rescue animals. 

October 17: Adjoin Soil to Soul Garden Party

Local nonprofit Adjoin will host a whimsical garden party fundraiser at a private home in La Mesa. The Soil to Soul Garden Party will support Adjoin’s mission to build inclusive communities and support independence for people with disabilities and veteran families experiencing homelessness.

October 24: Living Coast Discovery Center Farm to Bay

Enjoy bites, beverages, and animal encounters at Living Coast Discovery Center’s Farm to Bay fundraiser. The annual event at the nonprofit zoo and aquarium on the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge will support coastal conservation efforts.

Sarah Sapeda

About 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.

Charitable SD AUGUST 27, 2026

Las Patronas Celebrates 80 Years of Giving Back to San Diego

The all-volunteer organization has awarded more than $28 million to local nonprofits—and its members still do the work by hand

Las Patronas Celebrates 80 Years of Giving Back to San Diego
Photo Credit: Melissa Jacobs

Las Patronas turns 80 this year. But its newly minted octogenarian status doesn’t mean the all-volunteer organization is slowing down. On August 8, Las Patronas celebrated eight decades of philanthropy at its Venetian-themed Jewel Ball at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club. 

More than 800 attendees attended the philanthropic event, a sold-out black-tie gala, which featured classic Italian sports cars, photo ops in a gondola, a replica of the Orologio tower, and other thoughtful details that set the scene for an elegant and festive evening.

Though the Jewel Ball is one of the highlights of the gala season and the most visible element of Las Patronas’ mission, it’s also an opportunity to thank supporters, showcase the organization’s impact, and cap off fundraising efforts throughout the year.

“Behind the gowns, flowers, and celebration is an extraordinary amount of work and an even more extraordinary group of women who make that work possible. This includes our members, both active and advisory, along with our donors, sponsors, nonprofit partners, and generations of San Diegans who have supported Las Patronas,” says Colleen Lighter, the organization’s president. 

Courtesy of Las Patronas

Looking Back on a Legacy 

As Las Patronas celebrated at its 80th annual Jewel Ball, Festa di Venezia, members reflected on how special it is for an organization to remain so vibrant and relevant for eight decades.

Las Patronas was founded in 1946 by a small group of women with a shared desire to give back to their community. In the decades since, Las Patronas has transitioned into one of San Diego’s premier philanthropic organizations, providing financial assistance to nonprofit organizations across an array of causes. Major beneficiaries for 2026, who will each receive grants of more than $20,000 for capital projects, include Alpha Project for the Homeless, Canine Companions, Meals on Wheels San Diego County, National Marine Mammal Foundation, Promises2Kids, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, and Workshops for Warriors. 

“What started with friendship, philanthropy, and service has grown into an organization that has funded more than $28 million in grants for over 4,500 nonprofit organizations throughout San Diego County,” explains Lighter.

She notes that it’s especially meaningful that while San Diego has changed tremendously over the years, Las Patronas’ spirit of giving has held steady. “The needs of our community evolve, the organizations serving those needs evolve, and the things they need to do their work evolve. Our responsibility is to listen, learn, and make thoughtful investments that allow those organizations to serve San Diego more effectively,” she says.

Courtesy of Las Patronas

Charity and Commitment

Part of what makes Las Patronas stand out among philanthropic groups is its hands-on approach to service. The Jewel Ball is known for over-the-top décor, with many of its elements crafted in painstaking detail by members of Las Patronas, a tradition dating back to the first Jewel Ball. 

In addition to fundraising throughout the year, leading up to the event, members log long hours in “The Warehouse,” where they put their creative skills to work, painting backdrops, assembling centerpieces, and doing everything it takes to turn the exterior of the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club into a grand ballroom. They also haul all of their handiwork to the venue and set up, then break it back down immediately after the event wraps.  

“The motivation behind one extraordinary evening is an entire year of fundraising, grantmaking, and thousands of hours of volunteer work,” says Lighter. 

That collaborative spirit stretches far longer than just a year. Las Patronas keeps its roster of members intentionally small and highly engaged. To ensure senior members stay on long enough to hold a handful of leadership positions and show newer members the ropes, the organization requires a commitment of six to seven years. It also requires all members to work with its grants committee, visit eligible nonprofit organizations that apply for grants, and assist in the vetting and selection processes.  

“Our members have careers, families, and very full lives, yet they make an extraordinary commitment of time. Members participate in fundraising, evaluate grant requests, visit nonprofit organizations, serve on committees, and quite literally build and produce the Jewel Ball together,” says Lighter. “That investment of time is part of what makes Las Patronas and the relationships we form within the group special. We don’t simply raise money and write checks. We do the work ourselves, shoulder-to-shoulder, and we take stewardship of the money entrusted to us very seriously.” 

Courtesy of Las Patronas

The Past Carries the Future

Lighter says Las Patronas is defined not by moments or events, but by its traditions, which will continue for generations to come.  

“When you think about the generations of women who have given their time, talent, and energy to Las Patronas since 1946 and the donors, sponsors, advisory members, and community partners who have believed in our mission, you realize that our job is both to honor what they built and make sure it remains relevant and strong for the future,” she says.  

And though events like Jewel Ball are rewarding, the real magic happens once the funds are put to work. Lighter recalls one story that captures the quiet impact Las Patronas hopes to continue to make. A woman reached out to say that as a child, she’d attended a school where Las Patronas had funded a new floor and noted how much brighter the campus felt. It may not sound transformational, but it made a difference, and decades later, people still remember.   

“That is what capital giving can do. A vehicle can allow an organization to reach people it couldn’t reach before. A piece of medical equipment can expand care. A commercial kitchen can allow a nonprofit to feed more people or train people in a new profession so they can flourish. Technology can help an organization serve an entirely new population and expand their impact,” she explains. “We aren’t trying to tell nonprofits what they need. We listen to them, learn about their work, and help provide the critical tools they tell us will allow them to do more of it.” 

As she looks to the next 80 years, Lighter’s hope is that Las Patronas continues to evolve without losing what makes it special: thoughtful stewardship, hands-on service, friendship, and an unwavering commitment to San Diego.

“The needs will change. The nonprofits will change. San Diego will change. Las Patronas will change with it, but our mission will always remain the same,” she says.

Photos Credit: Melissa Jacobs

Sarah Sapeda

About 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.

Studio S SEPTEMBER 11, 2026

Vi at La Jolla Village – Senior Living in the Heart of Everything

At Vi at La Jolla Village, residents don't have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.

Vi at La Jolla Village – Senior Living in the Heart of Everything
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

Today’s seniors are more connected than ever, with a renewed focus on retirement as a time of discovery and enriching experiences. The ultimate reward for a retirement well-earned is the wisdom to appreciate it all, and what better place to enjoy that unique perspective than Vi at La Jolla Village, in the heart of San Diego.

All-access pass to good living.

As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Vi provides access to a connected and fulfilling community while making it easy to plan for future care, should the need ever arise. With a care plan in place, residents enjoy greater financial predictability and long-term value, freeing them to focus on making the most out of retirement.

Resort-style amenities at the epicenter of a cultural hub like San Diego offer a retirement experience unlike any other. Paired with exceptional dining, spacious accommodations and dedicated staff, the best of maintenance-free living is all around. And with the introduction of Vista 360 Well-Being, Vi’s panoramic approach to wellness, there are more ways than ever for residents to access it all.

The harmony of mind, body and community.

Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

The key to longevity is striking the right balance in maintaining an active lifestyle with an active mind in a fulfilling community. With newly renovated community spaces and restaurants, Vista brings a variety of opportunities for residents to elevate their well-being through Vi-exclusive “Signature Experiences.”

Vista Enrich takes an evidence-based approach to brain vitality, keeping residents at the forefront of cognitive health through exergaming (exercising + gaming), nutritional plans and informative workshops. It is also home to The Brain Vitality Studio, an innovative facility dedicated to cognitive fitness that has garnered national recognition.

Vista Discover invites residents into stimulating educational experiences, from chef-led cooking demos and guided wine tastings to lectures at local universities and intimate lectures following cultural outings.

While Vista Enrich focuses on brain health and Vista Discover engages residents intellectually, Vista Explore cultivates a sense of adventure through curated travel and local excursions. But broadening one’s horizons doesn’t always require a plane ticket. One recent event brought a taste of the world right to the community: an onsite “jazz cruise” featuring live music and global cuisine served at a series of themed “ports” all within the community’s own ballroom.

“Location, location, location”

Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

One of the biggest perks of life at Vi at La Jolla Village is its proximity to just about everything. With easy access to transportation and local attractions just steps away, residents can explore and engage with their community at their own pace.

“There are trolley and bus stops within a 5-minute walk that will get you to the beach, UCSD Campus, medical appointments, downtown La Jolla or San Diego, et cetera. We rarely use our car,” said resident Tom Yager.

With the best of San Diego just steps away, residents don’t just live in the city, they live within reach of everything that makes it special.

The best of all worlds.

Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

At Vi at La Jolla Village, retirement isn’t a chapter to slow down; it’s an invitation to discover more. Tailored community experiences created by Vista, paired with the vibrant pulse of San Diego just outside the door, mean that residents don’t have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.

This is what an all-access pass to good living looks like: the comforts of an elevated lifestyle, a community built for growth and a city made for discovery – all in one place.

To learn more about Vi at La Jolla Village or for details on available floor plans, visit ViatLaJollaVillage.com/SDM.

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Charitable SD AUGUST 24, 2026

La Jolla’s Historical Society Debuts New Name & Mission

After more than six decades of preserving the community’s past, the newly renamed museum is expanding how it tells its stories

La Jolla’s Historical Society Debuts New Name & Mission
Courtesy of Museum of History and Culture La Jolla

La Jolla has a rich history. From its roots as Kumeyaay territory and early days shaped by influential San Diegans like Ellen Browning Scripps to the vibrant hub for arts, culture, and education that it is today, the roughly seven-mile stretch along the coast has long been a local gem. 

In 1964, a group of volunteers came together to preserve the history of the community. They formed the La Jolla Historical Society, which has since evolved into the Museum of History and Culture La Jolla. For the past 62 years, the organization has worked to protect historic buildings, archival materials, and recorded memories, ensuring the character of the neighborhood would endure well into the future. 

“La Jolla is a small community, but it has a fascinating history,” says Lauren Lockhart, executive director of the Museum of History and Culture La Jolla. “The focus was always on how do we preserve the stories, places, and people that make La Jolla unique, and that remains central to our mission.”

However, in its early days, the organization was limited in what types of programming it could offer because it didn’t have a permanent homebase. A pivotal point came in 2008, when it was gifted Wisteria Cottage, originally the private residence of Virginia Scripps, by descendants of the Scripps family. The historic Craftsman cottage had been remodeled by famed architect Irving Gill, whose other modernist works are peppered throughout La Jolla, adding to its distinctive look. The organization then launched a capital campaign to expand into a museum-quality space to host exhibitions and to store the tens of thousands of photos, drawings, postcards, and other materials in its collection, Lockhart explains. 

“At that point the organization could really begin to invest in developing a public space and public programs that would give back to the community,” she adds. “That effort accelerated with my predecessor, Heath Fox, who pushed the organization to think about an exhibition program that was interdisciplinary in nature. It’s something that drew me to this organization and that I’ve continued to advocate for because examining history through lenses of art, architecture, science, and literature is so compelling and such a great way to bring different audiences into the fold.”   

Courtesy of Museum of History and Culture La Jolla

The organization entered another period of transformation this year when it “outgrew” its previous identity as La Jolla Historical Society and officially rebranded as the Museum of History and Culture La Jolla. The organization had transitioned from a traditional historical society into a professionally operated museum and wanted to reflect that while also amplifying its ability to connect with broader audiences. 

“We’ve grown so far beyond what a traditional historical society might offer to the public that we were finding that often, especially younger generations, they would come through our doors and say, ‘Wow, it’s a lot cooler than I thought it would be,’ which is a nice compliment, but it made us ask ourselves who’s not coming through our doors because they’re not sure what we have to offer or that they will see themselves reflected here,” says Lockhart. “We wanted to remove that barrier and make sure that everyone, just from recognizing our name, will think, That sounds like there’s something there for me, and that definitely is evidenced in our current programming and exhibitions.”  

Courtesy of Museum of History and Culture La Jolla

The change, she says, has been a long time coming. “We’ve already made a lot of huge strides over the years,” Lockhart says. “It’s about our name catching up to our work.”

The Museum of History and Culture La Jolla’s current exhibits include Stories in Cloth: Communicating Through Textiles, presented in partnership with the Visions Museum of Textile Art at Liberty Station, on display through September 6. On deck is The Scientific Art of Historic Preservation, which explores the processes behind the museum’s mission. To honor the philanthropic spirit of the Scripps sisters, admission to the museum and many of its public programs are free of charge. 

Sarah Sapeda

About 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.

Charitable SD AUGUST 19, 2026

13 Charitable Events to Attend in September 

Here’s where to celebrate, connect, give back, and make a difference this month

13 Charitable Events to Attend in September 
Courtesy of Girl Scouts of San Diego | Photo Credit: Sam Hodgson / Uptown 11 Studios

September 4: Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Day of Service

Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter will honor the legacy of the late Jimmy Buffet with a fundraiser for the San Diego Music Foundation. Its Day of Service at its rooftop bar will feature a performance by The Buffett Band, a travel and experience themed silent auction, and interactive entertainment. 

September 5: McAlister Institute Walk for Sobriety

Hundreds of San Diegans will gather at NTC Park at Liberty Station for the McAlister Institute’s 14th Annual Walk for Sobriety. In addition to the walk, the event will include a resource fair with more than 35 nonprofits, healthcare providers, and community organizations that are part of a network of support for those in recovery. 

September 14: Promises2Kids Dream On Concert Gala 

Foreigner will take the stage to benefit Promises2Kids at its Dream On Concert Gala at a private home in La Jolla. Proceeds from the exclusive event will help Promises2Kids create a brighter future for local foster kids. 

September 17: Lucky Duck Foundation 2026 Showcase Soirée

The Lucky Duck Foundation will host its annual Showcase Soirée at the Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa. Proceeds from the event will support the nonprofit’s mission to prevent and alleviate the suffering of homelessness throughout San Diego County. 

September 17: Emilio Nares Foundation Harvest for Hope

Show your support for families of local children with life-threatening diseases at the Emilio Nares Foundation’s Harvest for Hope at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Funds raised will benefit programs like Ride With Emilio, which provides no-cost transportation for families seeking medical treatment, and Healing Through Nature activities for kids in recent cancer remission. 

September 18: Girl Scouts San Diego Urban Campout 2026

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Girl Scouts San Diego’s Camp Winacka, the organization will host a nostalgic evening under the stars. This year’s Urban Campout: Ignite the Possibilities at Girl Scouts San Diego’s Balboa Campus will feature camp-inspired cuisine, cocktails, and activities. 

September 19: Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego’s An Evening of Changing Lives

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego will celebrate its impact on local youth at its 13th annual An Evening of Changing Lives. Proceeds from the gala at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina support programs that promote academic success, character development, and healthy lifestyles.

September 19: Youth Tennis San Diego Annual Gala 

Youth Tennis San Diego will honor the sport’s American icons at its annual gala at the Barnes Tennis Center. An Evening Celebrating Tennis Heritage & Legends will help the nonprofit make tennis accessible to all youth in San Diego, regardless of background or skill level. 

September 19: Serving Seniors Sunshine Gala 

Serving Seniors will produce a Jukebox Broadway-style show for its highly anticipated Sunshine Gala. The evening at the Hilton San Diego/Del Mar will support Serving Seniors’ compassionate and life-changing services for seniors in need throughout San Diego. 

September 25: Swing Fore Our Heroes Charity Golf Tournament

Support the Enlisted Project (STEP) will host an 18-hole golf tournament on the South Course at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa to raise money for its financial wellness program. Proceeds from STEP’s Swing Fore Our Heroes Charity Golf Tournament will help connect military families and veterans in need with financial social workers, emergency relief, and other tools.

September 26: Doors of Change 2026 Concert of Hope

Tom Petty Tribute Band, PettyBreakers, will take the stage at the Doors of Change 2026 Concert of Hope at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. This year, the nonprofit will celebrate its 25th year of transforming the lives of unhoused youth. 

September 26: Boys to Men Mentoring 100 Wave Challenge

Boys to Men Mentoring will celebrate 30 years of service this year at its annual 100 Wave Challenge. The annual surf-a-thon event welcomes hundreds of surfers who attempt to catch 100 waves in one day and raise $1,000 or more to support Boys to Men Mentoring.

September 26: The Party in the Park

The San Diego Automotive Museum will host The Party in the Park to raise money for the museum and programs that equip youth for careers in the automotive industry. The Roaring 20s-themed event at the Balboa Park institution will feature live jazz and an exhibit of 1920s automobiles. 

Sarah Sapeda

About 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.

Partner Content SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

NewBridge School

San Diego Magazine's Private School Guide 2026

NewBridge School
Jog-a-thon

NewBridge School is San Diego’s only school dedicated to the education of students with dyslexia and related learning profiles. For 30 years we have successfully served students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, receptive/expressive language disorders, ADHD, executive functioning and memory deficits. Students transition successfully into academically rigorous high schools and colleges across the country. Why NewBridge? Training, training, training (plus intensive individualization, and comprehensive program design). All teachers are trained and retrained biennially in Orton-Gillingham, the only approach proven to remediate dyslexia based on Science of Reading research, and complete a year-long training program. Every aspect of our program is designed around our students’ learning styles and needs. Every class is taught by a highly-trained expert, and our Speech/Language and Occupational Therapy teams embed throughout the day. Our multisensory, multi-tiered math program has been developed in conjunction with sister schools and experts across the country. Don’t wait—early intervention is magic!

Enrollment: 100

Grades: K – 8

Tuition: $30,000

Deadline: Rolling

Gender:  All-inclusive

Details  Nonsectarian

Open House  Tours by appointment


12285 Oak Knoll Road • Poway, California 92064
858-679-5744 • [email protected]thenewbridgeschool.com

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