The 12th Annual Diamond Gala is the signature event of the Boys & Girls Club of Vista. $120,000 was raised over the evening of March 5, 2022, directly benefitting 800+ youth and families they serve. Their Mission is to empower every Club member, with safe and impactful experiences to graduate high school with a plan for college and career, contribute to their community and live a healthy life.
Time was taken at the event to remember and honor Paul Eckert. Paul was an original Board member and Past Board Chair for the Boys & Girls Club of Vista. He was heavily involved with BGCV since the 1960’s. Club CEO Matt Koumaras calls Paul “A true legend and a champion for Vista kids.” Paul’s warm smile, memorable laugh and kind heart will certainly be missed at the Boys & Girls Club of Vista. Paul was named Honorary Board Member.
Assemblymember Tasha Boerner Horvath gave a special welcome and the Music Maniacs played during the Silent Auction. Matt Koumaras welcomed the guests and the evenings Emcee, Mari Payton, Weekend News Anchor NBC-7.
Grace Taylor was named as 2022 Youth of the Year. Supervisor Jim Desmond gave a Special Presentation and “Hopelessly Devoted to You” was performed by Grace Taylor.
The Live Auction was “lively” with Auctioneer Pierre Charmasson helping to raise $$$ for the Boys & Girls Club of Vista and ‘Bid for Kids’ from this event.
Donors: GOBe Rewarded, United Plant Growers Inc., My San Diego North County, Living Treasures Altman Plants and Jon Robershaw Photo.
Event Sponsors: US Bank, Watkins Wellness, Arthur Q. Johnson Foundation, Forte for Children, EDCO, and Lee & Associates. “Huge high fives to our Gala Committee for volunteering their time to make this event a success,” said Matt Koumaras, President & CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Vista.
