On Saturday, March 1, 2025, the Boys & Girls Club of Vista held the 15th Annual Diamond Ball at the Westin in Carlsbad, CA. This year’s gala was titled ‘2025 Gilligan’s Gala’. It was a tropical night of inspiration for those who gathered at a reception with cocktails and a Silent Auction.
At 6:45 pm the Ballroom doors opened and the guests began seating themselves at their tables. One of the first highlights of the evening was the performance by the Boys & Girls Club of Vista Youth Rock Band. They played a lively rendition of “Surfin USA”.
The evening started with Emcee Esmeralda Perez, a reporter from CBS Channel 8 San Diego. She introduced Club CEO Matt Koumaras who welcomed the crowd. He highlighted that the club served 1900 club members, which is 600 more than the year prior. They provided 87,000 free meals and distributed over $90,000 in financial assistance, illustrating the Clubs’ doors are open to all. He recognized the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, and how they are all working together to create a positive and successful environment in the club. He also asked all of the Boys & Girls Club Alumni to stand up and be recognized. Next, he introduced the Board of Directors Chairman Polly Williams. Polly recognized the talented staff and the support of the City of Vista to make The Boys & Girls Club of Vista a safe, happy, creative place for kids to learn and grow. She then again thanked the Sponsors. Without their help, this Gala would not be possible.
Title Sponsors- US Bank, Watkins Wellness, The Pinery, Forte for Children, EDCO, Lee & Associates and the Huynh-Petitt Family Trust, Tideline, volunteer voiceover and My San Diego North County. She then introduced County Supervisor Jim Desmond, and representing the City of Vista Councilmember Jeff Fox, Assistant City Manager Imelda Huerta, and Vista Fire Chief Gerard Washington.
The Philanthropy Award recipient went to Watkins Wellness and was accepted by Silvia Rocha-Espino.
One of the exciting parts of the evening was the Auction. The Auctioneer, Todd Stevenson, donated his skills as an auctioneer. He did a fabulous job.
Thousands of dollars were raised. One of the auction items was dinner at the Fire House by the Vista Firefighters. Two dinners raised $12,500.
A delicious dessert was served and the dance party began, performed by High Tide Society.
A shoutout to United Plant Growers Inc. for the beautiful plant centerpieces.
