Our special event fundraisers do more than gather people—they fuel our mission. Every sponsorship, ticket, and donation helps us provide free emotional support, education, and hope to those facing cancer. By partnering with us, you’re not just supporting an event—you’re making a real impact in our local community.
Our events are thoughtfully created and led by our dedicated CSC Guild and staff, whose passion and support make each celebration meaningful, mission-driven, and fun!
To learn more about joining our Guild or volunteering for events, please contact Rae Magnuson, our Director of Events and Marketing at r.magnuson@cancersupportsgv.org.
Save the Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026
Don’t miss our largest and most popular fundraiser of the year, the annual Angel Gala!
Invitation coming soon.
2025 SPECIAL EVENTS
Angel Gala 2025 – “Rise Together”
35th Annual Angel Gala Raises $650,000 at “Rise Together” Fundraiser
We are proud to celebrate the record-breaking success of our 35th Annual Angel Gala, which raised over $650,000 to fund free programs for individuals and families impacted by cancer. Held at the historic Langham Huntington in Pasadena, the event welcomed a record 375 guests under the inspiring theme “Rise Together.”
In the spirit of community support, $100,000 of the evening’s proceeds benefited the Pasadena Community Foundation’s Eaton Fire Relief & Recovery Fund, aiding those affected by the recent Eaton Fire.
The gala honored longtime supporters Lee and Mickey Segal, Lifetime Achievement Honoree Anne Kennedy, and Healthcare Partner Honoree USC Arcadia Hospital. The Mickey & Lee Segal Foundation lead the way to success as our presenting sponsor. Guests enjoyed a vibrant evening featuring a silent auction, gourmet dinner, and an uplifting program led by nationally recognized emcee Rossi Morreale.
Many thanks to our Event Co-Chairs, Patti Traglio, Suzanne Gilman, and Antoinette Johnson, who along with their committee members, rose together and made a tremendous impact despite challenging times.
Sip, Savor & Support 2025
2nd Annual “Sip, Savor, and Support” Raises $230,000
Cancer Support Community Greater San Gabriel Valley is proud to share the success of our second annual Sip, Savor, and Support fundraiser, which raised over $230,000 to provide free programs for individuals and families navigating cancer. Held in a stunning private garden estate of Renata O’Neill in Altadena, the sold-out event hosted over 250 people.
Guests enjoyed immersive garden experiences featuring culinary tastings from top local restaurants, including City of Hope’s 1913, Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, Bistro 45, Bone Kettle, Gale’s Restaurant, Mijares Mexican Restaurant, Pez Coastal Kitchen, and Roe Fusion, paired with desserts from Red Carpet Cookies and Sweet Red Peach. Featured beverage partners included Aperture Cellars, Baja Wine Buzz, Booker Wines, RT Rogers Brewing Co., Charles & Tea Co., and Jones Coffee Roasters. Live music and experiences were provided by Gregory Porée and company, including 5th Dimension vocalist and jazz singer, Sidney Jacobs, opera singer, classical guitar by Roberto Montero, harp by Jessica Brizuela, south bath by Vivien Diep, and magic by Ben Silver. The program highlighted a powerful message from Heather Badt, Chief Operating Officer of Cancer Support Community’s National Headquarters, who shared her personal perspective as both a survivor and caregiver.
The evening honored Presenting “Master Chef” Sponsor Garden View Landscape, Nursery & Pools for their exceptional dedication and ongoing support. Many thanks to our Event Co-Chairs, Valerie Mendoza and Matt Frey, who along with their committee members, created an evening like no other!
2024 SPECIAL EVENTS
Angel Gala 2024 – “Dapper Derby Soirée”
34th Annual Angel Gala Raises $415,000 at “Dapper Derby Soirée” Fundraiser
CSC’s 34th Angel Gala raised $415,000 to fund free programs for people impacted by cancer. Held at the historic Santa Anita Park, the Dapper Derby Soirée welcomed 350 guests for an unforgettable evening featuring live swing music, feather dancers, horse racing, gourmet dining, and a lively speakeasy experience.
The event honored Tom and Karen Capehart, Oak Tree Racing Association, Lifetime Achievement Honoree Marguerite Marsh, and Healthcare Partner Honoree USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. Special appearances by author and emcee Lian Dolan and LA Times columnist Bill Plaschke added heartfelt moments to the program.
The gala brought together community leaders, supporters, and families united by a shared commitment to ensure that no one faces cancer alone. With many thanks to our Event Co-Chairs, Dana Naples, Lydia Valenta, Melissa Alcorn, and Serge Melkizian, who created a uniquely fun event for our supporters.
Sip, Savor & Support 2024
Cancer Support Community Launches First Annual Sip, Savor & Support
CSC launched a new signature fall fundraiser, “Sip, Savor & Support,” on October 2, 2024, which was held at Rusnak Pasadena’s Grenadier Showroom, with many thanks to Paul Rusnak‘s generosity.
The evening featured savory appetizers from local restaurants including City of Hope’s 1913, The Arbour, Bistro 45, Gale’s Restaurant, Pez Coastal Kitchen, and Roe Fusion, and dessert by Red Carpet Cookies. Guests sipped California wines from Wenzlau Vineyard, The Hilt Estate, and Kubani Wines, complemented by Kosher organic teas from Charles and Company Tea.
The event raised over $230,000, surpassing goals, with thanks to our community of sponsors and supporters, and especially our presenting sponsors, Valerie and Aaron Weiss of the San Marino Motor Classic.
The highlight of the evening was a private concert by Michael Cavanaugh, Broadway star of Movin’ Out, who moved guests to sing and sway along to “Piano Man” and other classics.
Many thanks to our Event Co-Chairs, Valerie Mendoza and Patti Traglio, who along with their committee members, successfully launched and created a new standout event for our community!
Angel Gala 2023
33rd Annual Angel Gala raises $380,000 at “Diamonds Are Forever” Fundraiser
CSC’s Diamonds Are Forever Angel Gala brought together a stunning community of supporters for an unforgettable evening hosted at the Hilton Pasadena. This year’s gala honored two extraordinary pairs of community champions: Meg and John Symes, whose longtime leadership and personal connection to the mission inspire so many, and Aaron and Valerie Weiss, principals of the San Marino Motor Classic whose charitable efforts have benefited CSC and many local organizations for years. Jorge Jarrin, former LA Dodgers Spanish sports broadcaster, emceed the evening.
Event Co-chairs Vicki Laidig and Sandi Mejia-Ramirez, along with their committee, created a fun and elegant James Bond-themed evening. The event raised over $380,000 to fund CSC’s free programs and support.
