Thank You for Joining Us at the 2026 Find Your Spark! Gala!
Friends of the Children-SF Bay Area’s Find Your Spark! Gala was held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. Our annual fundraiser brought together community members, partners, and supporters for an evening celebrating the power of long-term mentorship. The program included the presentation of the inaugural Founders Award to co-founders Abhi Talwalkar and Michael Rugen, followed by remarks from Executive Director Susan Corlett outlining a vision to expand the organization’s reach, deepen its investment in literacy, and strengthen higher education and career exploration for the youth we serve. A moving video highlighted Harmony’s journey alongside her Mentor, Veronica, leading into a youth panel featuring Alessandra, a 7th grader, and Donte, a 9th grader, both of whom have been with the organization since kindergarten. For the first time, youth shared their experiences directly with the audience. The gala built momentum for continued investment in the youth served by Friends of the Children-SF Bay Area.
Moments like these are made possible by a community that shows up year-round. Your gift helps sustain long-term mentorship and expand opportunities for the youth we serve. Join us in carrying the spark forward.
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