Vista, CA- A stunning crowd gathered to support the Boys & Girls Club of Vista at their annual Diamond Gala on March 2, 2019 at the Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa. Attendees representing local businesses, Club Alumni, government officials and long-time friends of the Club were “Jazzed about Kids”. Guests were greeted with a warm welcome from the “Diamonds” of the event, Club Members who later shared their stories about how the Boys & Girls Club of Vista impacts their young lives. The evening progressed with champagne and hors d’oeuvres, a sumptuous meal, club member dance performance, live and silent auctions, Dixieland jazz music, casino style gaming and a photo booth.
L-R Mari Peyton with “The Diamonds” Sophia Sharp, Danielle Tinkle, Jayde McCurry, Angelica Galvan, Sophia Alvarez, Joel Salazar
The Emcee for the evening was Mari Peyton, a senior investigative reporter and anchor on the award-winning NBC 7 I-Team. She has been with the station for more than a decade, has won numerous Emmy awards for her investigative stories and live reports. Mari engaged the Diamonds as they captivated the audience with their stories. Auctioneer Kenny Shirey kept the crowd’s attention during the fast paced live auction with his high energy and entertaining style.
Recognized during the program were Carol Herrera, recently awarded the Club’s “Have a Heart for Kids” award for her work with the youth in our community as well as Emely Rosales, the Boys & Girls Club of Vista’s 2018 Youth of the Year. Emely addressed the audience through a brief video presentation, and met supporters during the silent auction.
“We are so grateful to all of our sponsors, table hosts, donors and supporters” said Sarah Holt, Gala Chair. “The event raised $88,000 for the Boys & Girls Club of Vista. The Club offers so much to the kids who attend on a daily basis. It is an integral part of the community and truly impacts the lives of our youth, preparing them for Great Futures. The kids they have incredible energy and will capture your heart!”
Sponsors for the evening included U.S. Bank, Watkins Wellness, Forte for Children, Tri-City Medical Center, Cosmic Solar, Wells Fargo and Synovation Medical Group.
About the Boys and Girls Club of Vista… Our mission is to empower every Club member, through safe and impactful experiences to graduate high school with a plan for college and career, contribute to their community and live a healthy life. The Boys & Girls Club of Vista serves 2,750 youth ages 5-18 and provides outcome-driven programs that emphasize academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles.
For more information, please visit http://www.bgcvista.org
