The 80th annual gala and iconic La Jolla event will be held Aug 8 to benefit seven major beneficiaries throughout San Diego.

Amid words of gratitude from its seven major beneficiaries this grant cycle, members of La Jolla-based philanthropy group Las Patronas hosted an April 29 preview of its landmark 80th annual Jewel Ball, to be held Saturday, Aug 8.

Las Patronas, established in 1946, has donated nearly $30 million to more than a thousand charitable organizations locally, in year-long grant cycles during which all members work to fund capital projects for their beneficiaries. 

“Las Patronas has quietly and consistently shaped the community … through discipline, intention and a very high standard for how we give,” Las Patronas President Colleen Lighter said at the preview, held at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club where the Jewel Ball has always taken place.

Themed “Festa di Venezia,” this year’s Jewel Ball will culminate the efforts to fund capital projects – each more than $20,000 – for its seven major beneficiaries as follows:

• A passenger van to support transportation and essential services for Alpha Project for the Homeless;
• A customized, air-conditioned van for safe transport of service dogs in training for Canine Companions;
• A hybrid vehicle for meal delivery and wellness checks for Meals on Wheels San Diego County;
• A mobile “Dolphin Doctor” field lab for the National Marine Mammal Foundation;
• New playground equipment to support foster youth for Promises2Kids;
• An advanced laboratory system for Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute;
• A forklift to support training for veterans for Workshops for Warriors.

The Las Patronas grant is “hugely impactful for us,” said Canine Companions spokesperson Paige Mazzoni. “We’re incredibly grateful for your support.”

“We are so thrilled to have the support of this powerhouse group of women,” Kristina Martz of the National Marine Mammal Foundation said.

A playground isn’t just about childcare, Promises2Kids therapist Valerie Centano said. “It’s about having a place that’s safe, that’s familiar and that’s supportive to them.”

Las Patronas also funds several minor beneficiaries’ projects throughout the year.

This year’s Jewel Ball will feature products from Bebemos Tequila amid Venetian revelry, with plans to bring Venice sights and experiences including features of the Grand Canal, a mask shop and more to the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club. 

Visit laspatronas.org/jewel-ball to learn more and purchase tickets.

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