*Organization celebrates 45 years of service in San Diego County*
**Annual event will raise funds to support children in foster care in San Diego County**
(July 21, 2025) SAN DIEGO – Voices for Children (VFC), along with Event Chairs Stacy and Joshua Kim, Jenny and Mike Kropko, Katie and Mike Nicoletti, and Jamie and David Oberto, will host a spectacular night under the stars to support children living in San Diego County foster care and the life-changing advocacy of Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers.
The 23rd annual Starry Starry Night gala will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at The Heron Lawn at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort in Carlsbad. The elegant event will combine delicious cuisine, breathtaking views, and a captivating Under the Sea theme highlighting the remarkable change that’s possible when we speak up and support children in foster care. This year’s gala is chaired by distinguished leaders from North County San Diego, whose dedication and vision are shaping what promises to be an unforgettable evening.
Step into an underwater world where beauty, depth, and meaning come together. This year’s theme is inspired by the Starfish Story, a classic tale of a boy who, after a storm, gently returns stranded starfish to the ocean, one at a time. When told that his efforts won’t make a difference, the child simply returns another starfish and replies, “I made a difference to that one!” This story reminds us that even small actions can create a ripple effect, ultimately making a lasting impact in the lives of those who need it most.
This year, Voices for Children celebrates 45 remarkable years of unwavering dedication to transforming the lives of San Diego County’s abused, abandoned, or neglected children. Since 1980, Voices for Children has remained the only organization in San Diego County authorized to provide CASAs to children in foster care. Today, Voices for Children is the largest CASA program in California and is one of the largest organizations in the nation. Thanks to our founders, Kathryn F. Ashworth, Esq., and Elizabeth Bacon, Voices for Children has supported more than 100,000 youth across San Diego and Riverside Counties, making a tangible difference in their lives. We are honored to continue their legacy of advocacy and their profound commitment to the next generation. We are especially pleased that Kathryn remains a dedicated CASA volunteer to this day.
CBS 8’s Neda Iranpour will emcee the event, featuring a vibrant cocktail reception, an inspiring program featuring compelling stories of impact, an exciting live auction, and the chance to Fund-A-CASA. The celebration continues at the after-party, featuring a dynamic live show by the incredible Collective Music, known for their high-energy shows and crowd-pleasing hits.
| EVENT CALENDAR DETAILS: Event: Starry Starry Night Gala – Benefitting Voices for Children Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025 Time: 5:00 p.m. Location: The Heron Lawn at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Tickets: voicesforchildrenssn.org Contact: 858-598-2261 or events@speakupnow.org |
“As we celebrate our 45th anniversary, we reflect on the strong foundation Voices for Children has built over the years,” said Jessica Muñoz, Esq., MFS, President & CEO of Voices for Children. “For more than four decades, we have been unwavering in our mission to provide a Court Appointed Special Advocate to every child in foster care who needs one. This gala is not only a celebration of all we’ve achieved together, but a reminder of the important work that still lies ahead. With the continued support of our community, we remain steadfast in our promise to be there for the children who need us most — today, and for years to come.”
To purchase tickets or tables for Starry Starry Night, please visit voicesforchildrenssn.org.
For more information, to become a sponsor, or to join the Honorary Committee, please contact events@speakupnow.org or 858-598-2261.
Visit voicesforchildrenssn.org to view the full list of sponsors and underwriters.
