News Summary
Girls Inc. of Orange County held a remarkable 70th Anniversary Gala at the Balboa Bay Resort, uniting the community and raising over $540,000 for girls’ empowerment programs. The evening celebrated seven decades of commitment, featuring entrepreneurial showcases from aspiring Girl Bosses and a heartfelt keynote address from a distinguished alumna. With support from generous sponsors, the event highlighted the ongoing mission to develop strong, confident young women through STEM, literacy, and career readiness initiatives. It was a night filled with inspiration and community spirit, affirming the impact of Girls Inc. on young lives.
Girls Inc. of Orange County Unites for a Night of Empowerment
In a delightful evening filled with inspiration and community spirit, Girls Inc. of Orange County celebrated its 70th Anniversary Gala on April 20 at the stunning Balboa Bay Resort. Over the years, this incredible organization has dedicated itself to empowering girls and fostering vital programs that uplift young women in the area. With an astounding fundraising achievement surpassing $540,000, it’s clear that the gala outdid all expectations!
A Night to Remember
The event wasn’t just about raising funds; it was a heartfelt celebration of seven decades of commitment to girls’ empowerment. Attendees basked in a vibrant atmosphere, kicking off the evening with a lively cocktail hour. Guests enjoyed mingling and networking while discovering the entrepreneurial efforts of three remarkable Girl Bosses from the Girls Inc. program.
These budding entrepreneurs showcased their own unique businesses that caught everyone’s attention. From homemade slime creations at Sister Slime to exquisite handmade jewelry from Lyn Loves Beads, and stylish upscale clothing and accessories offered by Ideal Luxury, it was a fabulous experience celebrating creativity and ambition.
A Star-Studded Program
The Masters of Ceremony for the gala, Makenzie and Whitney, were two inspirational Girls Inc. girls who gracefully led the evening’s festivities. Their energy and enthusiasm set a positive tone, making everyone feel included in the celebration.
One of the highlights of the night was a moving keynote address from Emily Olvera, a distinguished alumna of Girls Inc. She took guests down memory lane, recalling her experiences with the organization, which started when she was just in second grade. Emily’s story was a testament to the profound impact that Girls Inc. has on its members, shaping them into strong, confident young women capable of achieving their dreams.
A Toast to Supporters
Many noteworthy sponsors played a crucial role in supporting this incredible gala, including US Bank, BJ’s Restaurants, and The Gena Reed Family Foundation. Their dedication reflects a shared commitment to empowering girls and creating opportunities that help them thrive.
Lucy Santana, the CEO of Girls Inc. of Orange County, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors and supporters. She highlighted the ongoing mission to create an inclusive environment where girls can flourish, feel confident in their abilities, and become leaders in their communities.
Looking Ahead
The funds raised during the gala will directly support research-based programs centered on STEM, literacy, college and career readiness, healthy relationships, sound body image, and advocacy. These programs play an essential role in helping girls navigate their college and career paths while instilling knowledge and personal growth.
As the evening came to a close, it was clear that Girls Inc. of Orange County is not just a place; it’s a family. The sense of community reverberated throughout the event, reminding everyone of the importance of unity in empowering young women. Through friendships, mentorships, and support, Girls Inc. opens doors for girls and empowers them to be the leaders of tomorrow.
For more information about the wonderful programs offered by Girls Inc. of Orange County and how you can get involved, don’t hesitate to visit their website at www.girlsinc-oc.org. Together, let’s continue to lift up the future generation of strong women!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- OC Register: Bravo for Inspiring Education
- Newport Beach Indy: Girls Inc. Raises $540K
- LA Times: Girls Inc. Helps Girls Break Boundaries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Girls Inc.
- Google Search: Girls Inc.
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
