Team Kids supporters, partners, and champions gathered at the Rivian South Coast Theater in Laguna Beach to launch our 25th year of service.

From red-carpet moments and inspiring youth voices to the unveiling of our bold three-year strategic plan, the evening reminded us what’s possible when we believe in kids.

A surprise keynote from Olympic gold medalist and Team Kids’ first coach, Staciana Winfield, inspired us and set the tone for what’s ahead. 

✨ Event Highlights

• Young leaders welcomed guests on the red carpet
• Pledge of Allegiance led by Youth and the Laguna Beach Police Honor Guard
• ABC7 Midday News Anchor Phillip Palmer lit up the stage with his testimony about the power of witnessing Team Kids in action, sharing his ABC7 Solutions Story
• Board President Jenny Dinnen and fellow board members Charles Antis, Christine Schaubach, and Lisa Thomas unveiled our bold new 3-year strategic plan
• Team Kids Founder and CEO Julie Hudash presented Staciana with the 2025 Team Kids Spirit Award
• UCI Vice Provost Dr. Michael Dennin highlighted the impact of our nearly 25-year internship partnership—a youth-led, college student–supported model now being replicated across the nation.
• Inspiring messages from youth, partners, and supporters
• Partner recognition:
• Il Fornaio Irvine Team and Managing Partner Marcello Apollonio (founding Team Kids Dad) for the most delicious Italian cuisine and wine, all generously donated for our celebration
• UC Irvine for championing future changemakers and service-learning
• Rivian for hosting with professionalism and care

As voices rose from the stage, stories, strategies, and sparks of hope filled the room. This night became a launchpad for the next 25 years of youth-powered change.

Couldn’t Join Us? Watch our 60-second recap reel here: