Promises2Kids

To create a brighter future for foster children, it is important for Promises2Kids’ leadership to hear from current and former foster children just what a “brighter future” means to them. To that end, we make it a priority for our leadership to hear directly from those we serve. Last night, Promises2Kids leadership, current and former Board of Directors members, CEO Advisory Council members, Founders, and Emeritus members gathered for a Dinner at Pamplemousse Grille. Guests enjoyed an elegant three-course meal prepared by Owner and Executive Chef, Jeffrey Strauss, a longtime supporter and former board member. Guardian Scholars, Alyssa, Stephanie, and Vanessa shared their experiences in the foster care system, including their challenges with critical issues like homelessness, mental health, and childcare. They highlighted how Promises2Kids programs supported them and were open about how we continue improving. Providing a platform for and elevating the voices and perspectives of the youth we serve is essential to developing and improving Promises2Kids’ programs and initiatives. We’re grateful to these advocates for sharing their stories and the ways we can grow to meet their needs. #sandiego #advocacy #nonprofit #nonprofitleadership #fostercare

Over 60 Guardian Scholars gathered with family and friends enjoying the cool waters and scenic views at the Mission Bay Yacht Club. This was the 17th year that the Mission Bay Yacht Club has opened their private beaches to our foster youth. The day was filled with grilling, boat rides, kayaking, and lots of laughter. Many generous members of the club lent kayaks, paddleboards, and other beach equipment for the Guardian Scholars and their loved ones to enjoy. Staff joined in on the fun, as they participated in making lasting summer memories with the youth. Thank you Mission Bay Yacht Club, and to all the volunteers and staff that made this special day possible! #MissionBay #SanDiego #FosterYouth #Beach #Kayak

Our 15th annual Dream On Concert Gala presented by Kevin and Raegan Prior was held Monday, September 9th under the stars at the La Jolla estate home of Joan Waitt. Thank you to our premier sponsors, Orli La Jolla, Southwest Airlines – Promises2Kids’ Official Airline, Carmel Mountain Preschool, and Premier Media Partner Ranch & Coast. Nearly 550 philanthropists, community & business leaders, and supporters joined us for a reception, dinner, live auction, speech by Guardian Scholar, Dulce, who shared her inspiring story leading up to her successes, and a special private concert by Rock & Roll Hall of Famers, Kool & the Gang. In addition to the luxurious setting, excellent company, photo opportunities, and bidding on one-of-a-kind auction items, guests enjoyed a special menu prepared by Owner and Executive Chef, Jeffrey Strauss, of Pamplemousse Grille Thanks to our supporters and everyone involved in raising vital funds to support San Diego’s foster children. A special thank you to our event chairs - Lynne Doyle and Joan Waitt; Honorary Chairs – Kat Green, Lee & Stuart Posnock, Colin Rice & Lucy Camarillo-Rice, and Anna Marie Sorriso; and Host Committee - L. Renée Comeau & Terry Gulden, The McGrory Family, and Lou Scanlon. We’d also like to thank the almost 100 volunteers who gave their time to make this possible. Find your photos here: https://lnkd.in/gV5k5ind

A new school year brings the return of Guardian Scholars groups, including a packed room for Advocates for Change. Advocates for Change is a group designed to equip Guardian Scholars with the tools, training, and experience to safely and effectively tell their stories, advocate for themselves and others, and make a lasting impact in San Diego. Our first meeting focused on lived experience, one of the most powerful tools available to an advocate. Those with experience in foster care in their own lives are uniquely qualified to help provide valuable insight to create positive change for those still in care and of transition age. Throughout the year, the group will host community advocates, former Guardian Scholars, media professionals, and storytellers to share how they use advocacy and their voices for change. Many of us know that public speaking and sharing elements of our personal lives is a daunting prospect. We are proud and inspired to see many new faces in Advocates this year ready to support each other through that challenge. #Promises2Kids #Advocates #Advocacy #PublicSpeaking #Advocate #FosterCare

A dinner to benefit foster children is just around the corner! Our friends at the Del Mar Wine+ Food Festival are hosting a unique event for San Diego foodies - The Coastal Cowboys Dinner presented by Experience Scottsdale, October 4th at a private estate in La Jolla. Join acclaimed and award-winning chefs from Cloth & Flame as they bring their talent for indulgent cuisine to a luxurious and rustic evening under the stars. Passed hors d’oeuvres, a tequila tasting from Tequila Corrido, designing your own custom cowboy hat with Rancher Hat Bar, a family-style tasting menu expertly paired with Los Milics Vineyards award-winning Arizona wine ensure the complete experience of Scottsdale’s unique culinary style. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Promises2Kids. More tickets and info available at: https://lnkd.in/gJgvRDMH

Congratulations to our CEO, Tonya Torosian, for being recognized for the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce Women In Leadership Luncheon! We are grateful to Adriana "Adri" Brunner and the Chamber for recognizing and celebrating Tonya's leadership and dedication to improving the lives of San Diego's foster children.

For an organization that provides aid and support for foster children from the moment they enter care throughout adulthood, it is important that we are open to any tools and technology available to help us meet our mission. To that end, Promises2Kids CEO & COO, Tonya and Stephanie were in San Francisco for the Salesforce Dreamforce 2024 Conference to take in some of their new technical and technological advancements and to learn how we can implement those to meet the complex and nuanced needs of San Diego’s foster children. Salesforce has been a critical partner for Promises2Kids from an organizational point of view that we use every day to get foster children the support they need and connect our supporters with causes that matter to them. We look forward to evolving in step with industry leaders such as Salesforce to continue creating brighter futures for San Diego’s foster children! #salesforce #dreamforce #dreamforce2024 #AI #tech

We can't wait to see you all this Monday, September 9th, we will be back at the beautiful La Jolla estate home of Joan Waitt for our Dream On Concert Gala presented by Kevin and Raegan Prior! A special thank you to our Dream Maker Table Sponsors! We are looking forward to a magical night, making a difference for San Diego's foster children together.

In just two days - Monday, September 9th, we will be back at the beautiful La Jolla estate home of Joan Waitt for our Dream On Concert Gala presented by Kevin and Raegan Prior! Featuring acclaimed recording artist, Kool & The Gang! This wouldn’t be possible without support from AleSmith Brewing Company Barons Market, CaliFino Tequila CORT Furniture, Judd brand media, Pamplemousse Grill, Pax Ramona, PepsiCo Redfearn & Associates, SeaWorld and Tito's Handmade Vodka

In just two days - Monday, September 9th, we will be back at the beautiful La Jolla estate home of Joan Waitt for our Dream On Concert Gala presented by Kevin and Raegan Prior! Join us for an exclusive evening of dinner, an auction, and a private concert under the stars Featuring acclaimed recording artist, Kool & The Gang! This wouldn’t be possible without support from Pamplemousse Grille, Pax Ramona, PepsiCo Redfearn & Associates, SeaWorld and Tito's Handmade Vodka