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We are thrilled to share that the 3rd Annual Hearts to Hearts Valentine’s Luncheon was a tremendous success! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our guests, we raised $200,000, allowing us to continue providing essential support to families with critically ill children. Beyond the funds raised, the event brought a deeper awareness of how every contribution helps make a meaningful impact in our community.
An Engaging and Heartfelt Event
The morning kicked off with guests eagerly participating in the silent auction, wine pull, and raffle prize drawing. The silent auction featured beautifully curated Valentine’s Day baskets, fitness packages, jewelry, and more—all thoughtfully assembled by our dedicated Hearts Aligned Luncheon Committee volunteers.
The wine pull was a hit! For just $25, guests selected a mystery bottle of wine, valued between $25 and $80. Some lucky winners took home premium selections from Caymus, Melville, and Grgich, adding an extra element of excitement to the event.
The raffle prizes were equally spectacular, with three highly coveted experiences up for grabs:
✨ A two-night staycation at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Bacara
✨ Two VIP tickets to the prestigious World of Pinot Tasting
✨ Two tickets to the 2025 NFL showdown between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers
Powerful Speakers and an Unforgettable Story
The ever-charismatic Catherine Remak of K-LITE 101.7 served as our Master of Ceremonies and auctioneer, passionately sharing the mission and impact of Hearts Aligned.
Our keynote speaker, Heather Sherman, DPT, and Hearts Aligned Board Member, delivered a moving speech about her experience working with pediatric patients. She shared firsthand how a child’s recovery is profoundly influenced by having their parents by their side during hospital stays.
However, the most touching moment of the day came when Ethan, Diana, and baby Moncerat took the stage. Their story of struggle, resilience, and hope deeply moved everyone in attendance. Watch their powerful journey below.
A Heartfelt Thank You
This event would not have been possible without our generous sponsors, underwriters, and donors—thank you for making this luncheon a reality!
A special thank you to our incredible Co-Chairs, Brigitte Welty and Amie Parish, and the dedicated committee members who poured their hearts into every detail.
We also extend our deepest gratitude to:
❤️ Kirsten Stuart – for generously volunteering her expertise in organizing a successful silent auction
❤️ Margaret Lloyd – for her selfless dedication in designing the beautiful centerpieces
❤️ Valerie Banks – for expertly managing our volunteers
❤️ Montecito Bank & Trust – for their amazing team of volunteers managing the check-in and check-out process
❤️ RG Photography – Richard Garnica – for capturing the event’s most memorable moments
❤️ Mercury Press International – Isaac Hernandez – for creating a beautiful video that told a truly heartfelt story
❤️ Harpist Laurie Rasmussen – for providing the perfect musical ambiance
Join Us Next Year!
If you missed this year’s luncheon, we hope you’ll join us next year for another unforgettable afternoon of friendship, fun, inspiring stories, and meaningful impact in our community.
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