As we welcome the arrival of spring, we also enter one of the most energizing seasons of the year for our community at the CHOC Foundation, part of Rady Children’s Health. Across Orange County, volunteers, board members, and partners are helping launch a full calendar of events and engagement opportunities that raise critical support for the children and families we serve. Your leadership and generosity set the tone for everything we accomplish together.
This spring also marks an important moment in the continued evolution of our organization as we advance our work as part of Rady Children’s Health. By bringing together the strengths of both organizations, we are strengthening the future of pediatric care while remaining deeply rooted in our Orange County community and the mission that has always guided Rady Children’s Health Orange County, formerly CHOC.
In this issue of The Bear Necessities, we highlight the volunteers who bring our mission to life through events, engagement opportunities, and advocacy throughout the community. Thank you for the many ways you continue to champion children’s health and help ensure every child receives the care they deserve.
Rady Children’s Health: Strengthening Pediatric Care Annual Report: Celebrating the Impact
of Our Community
Over the past year, CHOC and Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego have continued integrating into a unified pediatric health system known as Rady Children’s Health This partnership brings together two nationally recognized pediatric organizations with a shared mission: advancing hope, health, and healing for children.
For families in Orange County, Rady Children’s Health Orange County remains a trusted and recognizable part of the region’s pediatric healthcare landscape. Our hospitals and programs continue serving local families, while the broader system allows us to expand collaboration, share resources, and strengthen pediatric care across California.
The CHOC Foundation continues to serve as the philanthropic partner supporting the hospitals and its programs. The generosity of our community, from supporters like you, ensures that children and families in Orange County directly benefit from the care, innovation, and support that Rady Children’s provides
Volunteer leaders play an important role in helping share this story. Your advocacy helps build trust, generate excitement, and strengthen confidence in the future of pediatric healthcare in our region.
Scan for additional information about the merger.
Each year, the CHOC Foundation Annual Report highlights the extraordinary impact of philanthropy across our organization. The report showcases the generosity of donors, the dedication of volunteers, and the programs and innovations made possible through community support.
From clinical advancements to family-centered programs, the Annual Report reflects what becomes possible when a community comes together in support of children’s health
We encourage you to explore this year’s report to see how your leadership and generosity continue to shape the future of pediatric healthcare
Scan to access the 2025 CHOC Foundation Annual Report.
Feature Spotlight
The Volunteer Leaders Behind the 2026 CHOC Gala
The CHOC Gala stands as the Foundation’s flagship fundraising event and one of Orange County’s most meaningful philanthropic gatherings. While the evening is known for its inspiring stories and community celebration, its success is made possible by the leadership and dedication of volunteers who guide the event each year. The 2026 CHOC Gala is led by an outstanding group of volunteer co-chairs whose collective leadership reflects the strength and generosity of the CHOC community.
2026 Gala Co-Chairs
Bahman Fakhimi
Chris Furman
Cary Hyden
Rick Matros
Dr. Salomon Maya
Together, these leaders bring decades of experience across business, healthcare, and philanthropy. Several have longstanding connections to Rady Children’s through board leadership, volunteer service, and family involvement with the Gala. Their shared commitment to supporting children and families is what unites them in this important role.
Working alongside the Gala Committee and CHOC Foundation team, the co-chairs help guide the vision for the event while engaging sponsors, recruiting supporters, and encouraging broader community participation Their leadership reflects the collaborative spirit that defines the Rady Children’s community and demonstrates how powerful volunteer leadership can be in advancing the mission
The 17th Annual CHOC Gala, presented by Pacific Life and Pacific Life Foundation, will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at The Grove of Anaheim The evening will bring together philanthropic leaders, corporate partners, and community champions for a celebration of generosity and impact in support of pediatric healthcare
Events like the CHOC Gala are only possible because of the extraordinary village of volunteers who step forward each year to lead, advocate, and inspire others to become involved. We invite you to join this community effort by attending, sponsoring, or sharing the event within your network.
Scan for additional information about CHOC Gala.
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Upcoming Events: Spring Engagement Opportunities Connecting with Mission: Year-Round Opportunities
Spring brings several opportunities for volunteers and supporters to gather in support of Rady Children’s mission. Each event reflects the dedication of volunteers who help make these experiences possible while expanding awareness of pediatric healthcare in our community.
Guild Event: Littlest Angel Pursenally Yours
April 25, 2026
Hosted by CHOC Guild volunteers, Pursenally Yours features a lively auction of designer handbags and luxury items while raising funds to support pediatric programs and services.
Scan for additional information about the event.
Guild Event: Glass Slipper Gala
May 2, 2026
The Glass Slipper Gala is one of the Guilds’most anticipated annual events, organized by dedicated volunteers who help advance Rady Children's mission through community philanthropy.
Scan for additional information about the event.
In addition to fundraising events, volunteers can connect directly with the mission through year-round engagement opportunities.
Hospital Volunteer Programs
Volunteers help welcome families, assist staff, and create a warm environment for patients and visitors.
Family Nights
Volunteers help organize themed activities and celebrations that bring moments of joy to children and families during hospital stays.
Child Life Activities
The Child Life team partners with volunteers to provide play-based programs that help children cope with hospitalization.
Meals-in-a-Box, Blood Drives, and Book Drives
Community-led initiatives such as meal donations, blood drives, and book drives provide meaningful ways to support patients and families.
These opportunities allow supporters to see firsthand how their time and generosity make a difference in the lives of children. If you’re interested in participating in an engagement opportunity listed above, please reach out to your Foundation committee lead.
As we reflect on this season of gratitude, we extend our heartfelt thanks for your leadership, generosity, and commitment to Rady Children’s. Your partnership fuels innovation, inspires hope, and ensures every child has the opportunity for a healthier tomorrow.
