What becomes possible when every person is recognized as essential to the whole? That question set the tone for The Coast Cares Gala, held Saturday, September 12, at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, an evening Hope Services built around the idea that every part of an ecosystem, and every person in a community, has a role that matters.

There’s no better setting for that message than the Aquarium itself. As the evening’s welcome letter put it, guests gathered “where an intricate web of life thrives. From the otter and urchin to the kelp and rockfish, every part has a role — and every role matters.” It’s a lesson in interdependence, and a fitting mirror for Hope Services’ mission: ensuring individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are seen, valued, and given real opportunities to live with dignity, connection, and purpose.

The night began with sunset cocktails and dinner, live music from the New Hope Band, and a silent auction and jewelry drawing courtesy of Heller Jewelers. Interim CEO Aila Malik welcomed guests with remarks, followed by an intimate fireside chat with Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi, then the live auction and Fund-A-Need appeal.

The evening’s emotional centerpiece was Lisa’s story, shared during the Fund-A-Need appeal. For more than three decades, Hope Services has supported Lisa — from the job coaching that helped her build a 23-year career at West Marine, to the support she now receives in retirement through Hope’s Aptos Senior Inclusion Center.

Despite profound loss, including the passing of her parents and Philip, her longtime partner, Lisa has kept moving forward — living independently, finding new love, and volunteering weekly with Meals on Wheels. At the Senior Center, she’s the first to join the party committee and the loudest voice at Wednesday karaoke. When asked what Hope has helped her with most, her answer was simple: “My goals.”

Every dollar raised through the Fund-A-Need helps make goals like Lisa’s possible.

The evening also featured a striking art collaboration with Sumo Fish, whose original piece — created exclusively for the Coast Cares Gala and signed by both the artist and Kristi Yamaguchi — took center stage in the silent auction, alongside a lineup of commemorative gala merchandise featuring the artwork.

The Coast Cares Gala made local headlines! Watch the full recap from KSBW:

Los Gatan reported that The Coast Cares Gala raised $350,000, sailing past its original $300,000 goal, with Kristi Yamaguchi sitting front-row for the spirited bidding. Hope Services’ director of marketing shared that the evening’s “Ecosystem of Hope” theme, drawn from the natural beauty and interconnectedness of Monterey Bay, was something guests could truly feel in the room. Read more.

To everyone who attended, gave, and celebrated with us, including our Champion, Hero, Leader, Advocate, and Community sponsors, and the many individual donors who support Bridging Hope Forward — thank you. Because of you, more individuals and families across our coastal communities will have access to the connection, opportunity, and support they deserve.