VISTA, CA – (March 16, 2026) – Renowned Vocalist Nick Palance will be the featured entertainment for Operation Hope-North County’s (OHNC) Spring Gala fundraiser, “Hope in Full Bloom”, set for Saturday, March 28 at The Hidden Barn, 762 A Taylor St., Vista.
Hailed by critics as the new “American Bocelli,” Nick Palance is an extraordinary vocalist whose powerful voice and dynamic stage presence have captivated audiences nationwide.
From private performances for distinguished figures such as William Shatner, Jerry Bruckheimer, and Jon Voight, to a recent solo concert with the Jordan Springs Symphony Orchestra in Washington, DC, Nick brings world-class artistry to every stage he graces.
A classically trained singer with a repertoire spanning five languages and genres from opera and “popera” to rock, and original compositions, his musical journey began at age six when he taught himself to play his father’s organ. Today, he headlines renowned venues including Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas and major performing arts centers across the country.
Along with Palance, guests will enjoy an elegant evening of purpose and impact featuring gourmet dining, a curated silent auction, and inspiring stories from OHNC families.
Champion Award Honorees
During the event, we will honor several remarkable champions whose dedication and generosity have strengthened the mission of OHNC and helped support those we serve.
This year’s Champion Award honorees include:
• Sonia Cortez – Staff Champion Award
• Alexis Lozano – Volunteer Champion Award (Youth Program Volunteer)
• Mary Browne – Volunteer Champion Award (Pantry Volunteer)
• Cindy Taylor – Board Champion Award (Legacy Honoree)
• Jim Polis, North Park Produce – Community Champion Award
• Lyssa and Jack Flaherty, Vista Skatepark Coalition – Civic Champion of HOPE
The culmination of the evening will be during the exciting live auction where guests will try and outbid each other for a series of items and packages that include:
Auction Highlights
Two-Night stay at the Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa
Alaska/Hawaiian Airlines flight vouchers
Private six-person dinner experience with Chef Ty
$3,000 estate planning package
Golf for four at Shadowridge Country Club and Pala Mesa Golf Resort
San Diego Bay cruise for two
Tickets to The Old Globe Theatre, USS Midway Museum, Safari Park, and other San Diego attractions
Total Wine private tasting for six
Fine-Art Pet or Family Portrait Session by DelMar Photographics
Additional gift packages including wine, dining, entertainment, & specialty items
“Together, we will raise vital funds to provide safe shelter, trauma-informed care, and pathways to lasting independence,” says Esperanza Zapico, OHNC’s Executive Director. The shelter boasts one of the highest success rates in San Diego County. Typically, 75 percent leave equipped with the tools and confidence to sustain their progress, & 67 percent of families successfully transition into stable housing or continued care.
She adds, “The gala will help OHNC continue its work in celebrating the strength of families, single women, and children rebuilding their lives at our shelter.”
Tickets for the Gala are still available for this sure-to-be sold out event! To purchase tickets and learn more details about the gala, contact Evelyn Flores, Director of Resource Development at OHNC at 760-295-9448, or eflores@operationhopeshelter.org.
About Operation Hope-North County
On average, more than 150 individuals (50 families), including a majority of children, are able to access life-saving services at OHNC. The shelter also provides food, clothing, and essential resources to hundreds more individuals and families on its waiting list. Inside the shelter, residents participate in financial literacy training, parenting workshops, therapy, and one-one-one case management. OHNC relies on the generosity of the public for more than 60 percent of its budget.
More OHNC News
OHNC is the non-profit winner of the 2026 Women in California Leadership Award in District 38 presented by Senator Catherine Blakespear’s office. This award selects one nonprofit annual to celebrate along with various women from District 38 who inspire with their extraordinary achievements, service, or contributions to the community.
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors has officially declared September 9th as Operation HOPE-North County Day. Executive Director Esperanza Zapico and five of her team members received the honor and proclamation from Supervisor Jim Desmond at the County Administration Center.
