HBBF Ushers in Mother’s Day with a Roar

Gala raises $126K to expand vital programs

Surrounded by bold muscle cars and glistening, classic vehicles, 160 friends gathered May 13 for an extraordinary evening, Healthy Beginnings, Bright Futures, raising $126,000 to help expand access to two important resources:

• Maternal mental health services including on-site licensed therapy, and
• Mommy & Me and My Family & Me programming.

The memorable pre–Mother’s Day evening included live music, auctions, moving speakers and an after-party. Special highlights included the meaningful stories of our clients Erika, Rocio, Isyss and Dominic, and Santa Ana Councilmember Johnathan Hernandez who shared his incredible story of growing up in the MOMS Orange County neighborhood and later utilizing MOMS’ services as a young father.

Supervisor Katrina Foley made a special check presentation of $450K towards advancing MOMS OC’s IT infrastructure and health education programs.

Outgoing Board President Sadie Sacks, RN, MSN, of Los Alamitos, who has served in this capacity for seven years, was honored and recognized for her tremendous service.

Incoming Board President Allyson Brooks, MD, FACOG of Hoag Women’s Health Institute gave a moving presentation, “The Strength of MOMS,” that addressed the importance of maternal health, motherhood and families.

Gaby Velasco, MOMS’ Health Educator, spoke of the importance of Mommy & Me programs to promote the development of babies and peer support for their parents and led the audience in an affirming group hug.

Actress and former Disney Ambassador Jessica Bernard added sparkle as she emceed the affair with dinner catered by White House Catering. The renown Marconi Automotive Museum, home to over 100 vehicles including Ferraris, Lamborghinis, muscle and race cars, motorcycles and automotive memorabilia, served as the event site.

“It was wonderful to celebrate MOMS Orange County with our amazing supporters, staff, volunteers and sponsors. Event proceeds will support our life-changing work with expectant mothers, fathers and families and we are grateful to everyone who contributed to our fundraiser’s success,” said MOMS Orange County CEO Dave Lugo. Funds raised include silent auction proceeds and donations.

Major event sponsors included O’Donnell Family Foundation, Providence St. Joseph Hospital, Providence St. Jude Medical Center, US Bank, GreenFruit Avocados, Fruitripe, Hoag, Kaiser Permanente and Dr. David and Sadie Sacks.

Our thanks to everyone for your support!