The 36th Annual YMCA Reach Out Gala brought out more than 250 guests, who enjoyed a champagne reception and a lively silent and live auction, and raised more than $150,000 for local YMCA programs.
The YMCA Reach Out Gala originally began as a women’s luncheon for the YMCA Foster Care Program, hosted by Orange County philanthropist Donna Crean. In 2009, the event transitioned from YMCA Reach Out Awards into the YMCA Reach Out Gala. In 2010, a new tradition was born, transforming the event into a collaborative fundraiser between the YMCA of Orange County, the YMCA of Orange and the Anaheim Family YMCA.
In 2012, the event was moved to February to highlight the Annual Support Campaigns of three YMCA’s.
Proceeds of this year’s gala will benefit the YMCA’s Financial Assistance Programs throughout the county, providing support to children, individuals and families who would otherwise be unable to participate in Y programs.
The evening marked important milestones for the YMCA, including 125 years of the YMCA in Orange County, the 100th Anniversary of the Anaheim Family YMCA and the recognition of National YMCA Honor Roll Donors.
The Y recognized 21 individuals, families and family foundations for their contributions totaling $100,000 in their lifetimes to their local YMCA’s, including C.J. Segerstrom and Sons, accepted by Sandy and Sally Segerstrom. Kelly Crean accepted the award on behalf of the family foundation and her grandmother, Donna Crean. Hugh Helm of Newport Beach accepted on behalf of his friends and fellow YMCA OC Board Members, Dave and Pat Lamb.
The YMCA Reach Out Gala was generously sponsored by The Crean Foundation, as a Diamond Sponsor at $25,000 and Dave and Pat Lamb of Newport Beach, as a Gold Sponsor $10,000.
Photos by Ann Chatillon
- The sell-out crowd during the silent auction and cocktail reception.
