First published in the March 10 print issue of the Pasadena Outlook.
Photos by Erin Rodick
The Outlook
Hillsides recently hosted its annual gala, “Come Together,” where 275 guests gathered at Pasadena’s Langham Huntington. The event raised $525,000 for its programs and services to help children, young adults and families heal, grow and thrive.
“With support from our major donors and guests, we will get through the pandemic, come together, and come out stronger on the other side. Those we serve will get a fresh start, learning to take steps every day to move through the challenges,” said Chelisa Vagim, Hillsides gala chair. “The evening is about celebrating these remarkable children, young adults, and families.”
Inspired by the Beatles 1969 hit song, the gala’s celebration of hope and renewal was made possible because of major donors, corporations and organizations like the presenting sponsor, the Donald Zonshine Family Foundation.
Other top sponsors included Rusnak Auto Group; Willis Towers Watson; C.W. Driver Companies; Ayrshire Foundation; Claudia Calandrino; Don and Sally Clark; Dave Davis; Jacob Maarse Florists; Northern Trust; Mario and Shelly Fiumani of Pin USA; Sherm and Marge Telleen; Western Asset Management Co.; and Nancy Wilson and Geoff Bywater.
Fritz Coleman, a former NBC weatherman and longtime Hillsides supporter, served as celebrity auctioneer, while Trinity Casey, a current resident of Youth Moving On, was featured on a video to share her story on the challenges she encountered before living at Hillsides transitional living and housing program in Pasadena.
To learn more about Hillsides and how to help bring a brighter future for the 14,000 children, young adults and families they serve, visit hillsides.org.
