Charitable Giving Guide 2.0

Charitable Giving Guide 2.0

PHOTO BY GALEN DUCEY PHOTOGRAPHY

It’s true: The giving is as fulfilling as the receiving. This list contains many Bay Area nonprofits and information about their annual fundraising events.

We initiated the annual Guide to Charitable Giving last December, so this is the second annual installation. It’s an in-depth alphabetical list of numerous Bay Area nonprofit organizations, many of which schedule major galas as their annual fundraisers. When known at press time, December dates and 2019 dates are included. Our goal is to list as many of those special dates as possible.

100 Black Men of the Bay Area

The Bay Area chapter of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. helps African-American youth by providing scholarships and mentoring while promoting health and wellness, entrepreneurship, networking, and economic development. 30th Annual Scholarship Benefit and Awards Gala: Dinner, dancing, and networking opportunities. Dec. 8, 5:30 pre-reception and silent auction, 8 p.m. live auction, award, and dinner program, $25, San Francisco Marriott Marquis, 55 Fourth St., San Francisco, 100Blackmenba.org.

 

A Better Way

A Better Way hosts social events to raise awareness and funding for the organization, which provides no-cost, high-quality programs and services to more than 1,250 children and families. Help plan the annual gala (no date yet), volunteer for an event, host a toy drive — involvement opportunities abound. ABetterWayInc.net.

 

Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation

The foundation preserves the legacy of the USS Hornet — which celebrated a 75th anniversary in November — and its role in naval aviation, U.S. military defense, the Apollo program, and space exploration. It supports the USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum and its efforts and schedules many events, including a big New Year’s Eve extravaganza that raises funds for education. Dec. 31, 7:30 p.m.-1 a.m., $60-$99, USS Hornet Museum, 707 West Hornet Ave., Alameda, USS-Hornet.org.

 

Alameda Architectural Preservation Society

AAPS increases public awareness and appreciation of historic architecture in Alameda, and its primary fundraiser is the Alameda’s Annual Legacy Home Tour of historic homes in the fall. Alameda-Preservation.org, Alameda-Legacy-Home-Tour.org.

 

Alameda Boys & Girls Club

Alameda Boys & Girls Club inspires youth, especially the underserved population, to realize their full potential through education and career development to recreational opportunities. Events include Kids Nite Out in the fall and a golf tournament. AlamedaBGC.org.

 

Alameda Business Network

Alameda Business Network hosts Arms Around Alameda, a benefit for the Alameda Welfare Council and its supported charities and organizations. The benefit, which happened in November, offered entertainment, raffles, auction, and a buffet dinner, and 100 percent of the proceeds were donated to organizations including Alameda Meals on Wheels, the Alameda Homeless Network, and FAAS Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter. AlamedaBizNet.com.

 

Alameda Community Fund

The Alameda Community Fund grows its endowment through fundraisers, bequests, donations, and investment returns and schedules an annual fundraising dinner each fall. AlamedaCommunityFund.org.

 

Alameda County Community Food Bank

The ACCFB provides food for the hungry in Alameda County. Its annual Empty Bowls has guests eat a supper of bread and soup in keepsake bowls painted by school children and food bank supporters. Last year’s event featured a silent auction and children’s entertainment (no 2019 date yet). ACCFB.org.

 

Alameda County Family Justice Center

ACFJC’s One Gala is an annual event (no 2019 date yet) benefitting the organization in its efforts to serve individuals and families experiencing domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault and exploitation, child abuse, child abduction, elder and dependent adult abuse, and human trafficking. ACFJC.org.

 

Alameda Education Foundation

AEF provides education support to Alameda public schools. It celebrates innovative educational programs in those schools with music, food, and friends at the Alameda Education Foundation gala, the AEF Salute to Education (no date yet). AlamedaEducationFoundation.org.

 

Alameda Family Services League

This organization is the presenter and beneficiary of the Alameda Holiday Home Tour. See Victorians, craftsman homes, and other manses decked out with holiday finery at the 47th annual tour, which also includes a gift boutique, gourmet shop, and holiday dessert tea. Tour: Dec. 8, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., $35 presale, $40 day of tour, $25 group ticket sales, Alameda, AlamedaHolidayHomeTour.com.

 

Alameda Health System Foundation

The foundation supports the system hospital and its programs. The annual gala is an opportunity to support Alameda Health System’s mission. The event (June) highlights a department within the health system and recognizes key clinicians for their tireless work in creating a healthy East Bay community. FoundationAHS.org.

 

Alameda Kiwanis Club

A longtime Island service club, this Kiwanis chapter goes cowboy once a year by hosting the annual Chili Cook-off and Barbecue Dinner. This year’s event features chili tasting, dinner, a raffle and auction, and dancing on Jan. 26. AlamedaKiwanis.org.

 

Alameda Meals on Wheels

Promoting independence for all with hot meals and wellness checks, Alameda Meals on Wheels presents an annual Community Faire & Wine Tasting with hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants and wines from California wineries plus live music and more (no date yet). AlamedaMealsOnWheels.org

 

Alameda Point Collaborative

APC serves residents living within its supportive housing community and sees its mission as fighting homelessness and poverty. Its annual fundraiser (no date yet) is The Urban Farm to Table Luncheon, a farm-to-table experience in the middle of the collaborative’s 2-acre urban working farm in the spring that features an organic and sustainable meal prepared with produce directly from the Alameda Point farm. APCollaborative.org

 

American India Foundation

An agent for social and economic change in India, AIF hosts the annual AIF Bay Area Gala on March 16, 5 p.m., Fairmont San Jose, 170 S. Market St., San Jose.AIF.org.

 

American Cancer Society East Bay

The American Cancer Society East Bay holds the annual Jewel Ball to raise funds for cancer research through an evening of classic cars, gourmet food, dancing, an auction, and more. This year’s ball was held in October at Blackhawk Museum (no 2019 date yet). ACSGbrer.ejoinme.org.

 

Art Deco Society of California

Celebrating the 1920s and 1930s and all things Art Deco is the mission of this organization. It goes all out at the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate where period-attired purists revive an elegant epoch at the Gatsby Summer Afternoon. It’s a high-society picnic with Champagne, dancing, vintage cars, cocktails, and fashion parades. Sept. 8, GatsbySummerAfternoon.com.

 

Arts for Oakland Kids

Formerly the Oakland Fund for the Arts, AOK enhances the lives of Oakland students by funding arts education in the city’s most underserved public schools. AOK had its Heart of Oakland Art Event and Auction in September. AOK does community outreach programs all year. ArtsForOaklandKids.org

 

Asian Health Services

A health center program, this nonprofit serves and advocates for the medically underserved, including the immigrant and refugee Asian community, to ensure equal access to health care services and holds fundraising events through the year, such as a charity golf tournament and annual gala (no 2019 dates yet). AsianHealthServices.org.

 

Aurora Theatre Company

This professional theater company in Berkeley experiences its biggest night of the season at Supernova 2019. Details have yet to be announced, but last 2018’s Supernova involved live entertainment, cuisine curated by an award-winning chef, auction packages, and more. AuroraTheatre.org.

 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland

BGCO offers positive experiences for Oakland youth. The fourth annual Oakland Town Ball was in November and brought cocktails, music, dinner, dancing, and auctions to the Town to raise money on behalf of the club (no 2019 date yet). OaklandTownBall.org, BGCOakland.org.

 

Bay Nature Institute

Dedicated to inspiring people through media and personal experience to explore and protect the natural world of the San Francisco Bay Area, Bay Nature honors conservationists at the annual Local Hero Awards Dinner. Bay Nature will bestow awards on Robert E. Doyle of East Bay Regional Park District, Anthony Khalil of Literacy for Environmental Justice, Lennie Roberts of Committee for Green Foothills, and Tina Cuevas of Bay Area Ridge Trail. March 31, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave., Berkeley, $195-$245, BayNature.org.

 

Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association

For nearly 50 years, BAHA has been promoting architectural preservation and appreciation for Berkeley’s history and its historic buildings and honoring champions with annual preservation awards (no date yet). BerkeleyHeritage.com.

 

Berkeley Chamber of Commerce

Created in 2014 by the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce, the Visionary Awards (no date yet) celebrate people with the imagination and persistence to innovate in Berkeley, a leading city in public policy and social activism. BerkeleyChamber.com

 

Berkeley Humane

Berkeley Humane serves the people and animals of Berkeley by providing life-saving programs for cats and dogs, cultivating compassion, and strengthening the human-animal bond. It hosts Pints for Paws, a beer-and-pet fest, and Bark Around the Block, a pet fair, in the summer. Pints for Paws is June 1; find more information here closer to the event date: BerkeleyHumane.org/PintsForPaws.

 

Berkeley-Oakland YWCA

The YWCA Berkeley/Oakland is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, developing leaders and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all and offers programs, classes, and resources for the Berkeley and Oakland communities and University of California at Berkeley students. It often holds an annual YWCA Kickoff to Summer Gala and Auction (no date yet). YWCA-berkeley.org.

 

Berkeley Repertory Theatre

This past summer, the award-winning Berkeley Rep celebrated its 50-year anniversary with the annual gala Ovation and raised over $800,000. No date has been released for the 2019 gala, but generally it’s in June. BerkeleyRep.org.

 

Berkeley Youth Alternatives

This group sponsors, organizes, and participates in widespread Bay Area community events, including the Rising Stars Youth Leadership Gala (no date yet), that contribute to BYA’s mission of providing a secure and nurturing environment for all the children, youth, and families in the community. BYAonline.org.

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area mentors kids to realize their full potential. The annual gala is a highlight of the BBBSBA year. 2018’s Diamond Anniversary Gala celebrated BBBSBA’s 60th anniversary and gathered more than 400 philanthropists and business leaders for an evening to benefit disadvantaged Bay Area children. The 2019 gala date is scheduled for April 26, 950 Mason St., San Francisco, BBBSBA.org.

 

Biletnikoff Foundation

The Biletnikoff Foundation commemorates Tracey Biletnikoff’s life and death by enabling young people to reach their full potential through community support and education programs that address problems related to substance abuse and domestic violence. The Biletnikoff Foundation annual Crab Fest in the fall (no date yet) is the primary fundraiser with football Hall of Famers, Oakland Raiders, and other celebrities lending support. Biletnikoff.org

 

Biotech Partners

This nonprofit encourages careers in science by providing under-served youth at Berkeley High and Oakland Tech with personal, academic, and professional experience to expand their participation in higher education that leads to jobs in scientific fields. It’s annual gala celebration and fundraiser is April 6. BiotechPartners.org.

 

Bishop O’Dowd High School

This Catholic, coed, college prep school is administered by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Oakland. O’Dowd’s signature fundraising event of the year is the Transforming Lives Dinner in the fall (no date yet). Funds provide scholarships for students who would not otherwise be able to attend O’Dowd. BishopODowd.org.

 

Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency

BOSS — for Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency — fights poverty, homelessness, and injustice by bringing love, hope, and support to families and individuals in need. BOSS honors local youth overcoming hardships for brighter futures at the Rising Stars Youth Leadership Gala (no 2019 date yet). Self-Sufficiency.org.

 

California Shakespeare Theater

Redefining classical theater for the 21st century with works of artistry that engage with the contemporary moment to reveal personal insights and make theater accessible to all, Cal Shakes fulfills its mission with outdoor theater in Orinda. Show your love for the Bard at the Cal Shakes Guiding Stars Gala. Last year’s festivities included a cocktail reception, dinner, and live auctions as well as the Guiding Stars Awards presentation, and dancing (no 2019 date yet). CalShakes.org.

 

Cat Town Oakland

Cat Town is a nonprofit, cage-free, cat rescue and placement program with an adjoining cafe in Oakland that seeks to place vulnerable cats in forever homes by working with foster families and animal welfare agencies and advocates. CatTownOakland.org.

 

Center for Asian American Media

CAAM presents media stories that convey the richness and diversity of Asian-American experiences to the broadest audience possible by funding, producing, distributing, and exhibiting works in film, television, and digital media. The work all comes together at CAAM Fest where there is an opening gala heralding the multicity, multi-venue film fest. May 9-23, CAAMedia.org.

 

The Center for Elders’ Independence

The Center for Elders’ Independence offers at-home care and services for seniors. CEI celebrates its 36th year of serving East Bay seniors at the 2018 PACE Party. May 2, 6-9 p.m., University Club, 2227 Piedmont Ave., Berkeley, CEI.elders.org.

 

Chabot Space & Science Center

Oakland’s only observatory, Chabot Space & Science Center is to be a place for students of all ages to learn and be inspired about the universe and Earth. The annual Starlight Gala (no 2019 date yet) turns the place into a party venue for feasting, dancing, and fun while raising funds for Chabot’s hands-on programs for children and to inspire lifelong science learning. The gala also recognizes Champions of Science. ChabotSpace.org.

 

Children’s Fairyland

A special outdoor children’s theme park that inspires creativity daily with performances and attractions for youngsters, Children’s Fairyland opens up late for the annual adults-only gala and fundraiser, one of the best parties with a purpose of the year — and always with a fun theme. May 29, Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland, Fairyland.org.

 

Children’s Health Guild

The Children’s Health Guild hosts two signature events to raise funds for UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland and George Mark Children’s House: the annual Holiday Boutique & Luncheon, The Spirit of Giving, Nov. 30, The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco, 9:30 a.m. boutique, $50, noon luncheon, $135; and the annual Spring Gala & Auction (no date yet), ChildrensHealthGuild.org.

 

Children’s Support League of the East Bay

Established in 1986, the CSL is a volunteer organization committed to improving the lives of disadvantaged children in Alameda and Contra Costa counties and raises funds primarily through its annual Heart of the Home Tour, Boutique and Raffle in Piedmont and Oakland in April. WeHelpKids.org.

 

Child Unique Montessori School

This private school community in Alameda uses the Montessori model and philosophy to empower its students and has hosted an annual fundraiser, The Festival of Flavors (no date yet), for specific needs, such as the arts and sports and curriculum. TheChildUnique.org.

 

The CIL

The Center for Independent Living provides advocacy and services that increase awareness, collaboration, and opportunity among people with disabilities and the community at large. Honor the contributions of disability rights activists and the independent living movement at the annual Ed Roberts Day Award Reception (no date yet). TheCIL.org.

 

Clausen House

A five-plus decade history is a long time to support adults with developmental and intellectual challenges and disabilities and their families, but that’s what Clausen House does. It celebrates in October with an annual fundraising gala, plus a community celebration (no dates yet). ClausenHouse.org

 

Commonwealth Club of California

The nation’s oldest and largest public affairs forum, the Commonwealth Club, schedules more than 400 events on topics ranging across politics, culture, society, and the economy. It also features annual special events such as the California Book Awards and the Distinguished Citizen Gala (no dates yet). CommonwealthClub.org.

 

Community Learning Center Schools Inc.

A public charter school in Alameda, Nea Community Learning Center presents the yearly Nea’s Night Out, the PTSA’s annual fundraising event to benefit Nea learners through an evening for adults only that includes dinner, games, silent and live auctions, and dancing with a DJ. Feb. 2, 5-10 p.m., CLCSchools.org.

 

Contra Costa Humane Society

CCHS serves Contra Costa County animals and the people who love them with funding generated from private and corporate donations as well as grants. There are many donation opportunities. Coming to the Rescue is the Humane Society’s annual dinner and auction, complete with a buffet dinner and live entertainment (no date yet). CCHumane.org.

 

Creative Growth Art Center

This Oakland nonprofit gives artists with developmental, mental, and physical disabilities a professional studio environment for artistic development, gallery exhibition, and representation. There are many exhibitions and opportunities for support throughout the year. CreativeGrowth.org

 

The Crucible

An industrial fire-arts nonprofit in West Oakland, The Crucible offers classes and programs throughout the year for youth and adults to learn industrial arts skills like blacksmithing and glass blowing. The Fire & Light Soiree and Art Auction (April) raise funds for education programs. TheCrucible.org.

 

East Bay Agency for Children’s Auxiliary

The East Bay Agency for Children’s Auxiliary serves local children impacted by trauma and social inequities and raises funds with an annual thematic gala — this year’s, which happened in November, was called Tartans, Tuxes & Tiaras (no 2019 date yet). EBAC.org.

 

East Bay Children’s Law Offices

This organization, founded in 2009, represents Alameda County foster youth in juvenile court and related proceedings, speaking up for abused and neglected children. EBCLO.org.

 

East Oakland Youth Development Center

Dedicated to developing the social and leadership capacities of youth and young adults so that they are prepared for employment, higher education, and leadership opportunities, EOYDC celebrates the youth it serves with the annual Something for Everyone Fundraiser (no date yet). EOYDC.org/somethingforeveryone, EOYDC.org.

 

East Bay SPCA

Committed to the welfare of cats and dogs in the East Bay through programs and education geared toward eliminating animal cruelty, neglect, and overpopulation, the East Bay SPCA’s annual fundraiser is Growl, Meow & Wine (no date yet); it also hosts a major adopt-a-thon event at Jack London Square (July). EastBaySPCA.org.

 

Fine Art Museums of San Francisco

This San Francisco organization oversees the de Young in Golden Gate Park and the Legion of Honor in Lincoln Park and has an annual spring gala (no date yet). FAMSF.org.

 

First 5 Alameda County

First 5 Alameda County helps young children grow up healthy and ready to learn during the most important time in their development — their first five years. It honored special individuals who assisted with aid to support families, providers, and communities at its inaugural First 5 Alameda County Gala Dinner in 2017 (no 2019 date yet). First5Alameda.org.

 

Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter

FAAS takes care of the residents at the Alameda Animal Shelter and asks supporters to lend special support by attending the annual gala, After the Ball, usually in October. Alameda, AfterTheBall.org, AlamedaAnimalShelter.org.

 

Friends of the Parks Foundation

Alameda’s Friends of the Parks Foundation promotes, protects, and supports recreation and park activities and community wellness in Alameda and sponsors many community programs and projects in cooperation with the Alameda community and the Department of Recreation and Parks that involve members, volunteers, and individual and business donors. Its two big annual events are a golf tournament and dinner and an annual family bike ride (no dates yet). AlamedaParks.org.

 

Friends of Oakland Animal Services

Dedicated to improving the quality of life for shelter animals, FOAS was founded by Oakland Animal Services volunteers in December 2005 and supports the municipal shelter’s efforts to care for its animals and can always use support.   OaklandAnimalServices.org.

 

Girls Inc. of Alameda County

Girls Inc. of Alameda County empowers Alameda County teens and young women to gain development success by being smart, strong, and bold. This year, they celebrated 60 years of empowering girls with the Diamond Anniversary Gala (no 2019 date yet). GirlsInc-Alameda.org.

 

Girls Inc of the Island City

Since its 1964 founding, Girls Incorporated of the Island City has provided youth development services geared specifically for girls in Alameda. This year, it celebrates its 20th anniversary of the Women Who Dare Gala, Feb. 9, 5:30-10 p.m. Oakland Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland, GirlsIncIslandCity.org.

 

Greater Bay Area Chapter of JDRF

The hub of Bay Area Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation activities, the Greater Bay Area Chapter keeps tabs on many fundraising activities through the year, from bike rides and walks to golf tournaments and the annual Hope Gala, May 18, 5:30 p.m., $1,000, The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco, JDRF.org/bayarea.

 

Harbor House Ministries

Harbor House serves under-resourced Oakland children and families through programs that inspire them to build healthy relationships with God and community. Its annual fundraiser is The Great Banquet, featuring dinner, auction, speakers, and fellowship (no date yet). HHMinistries.org.

 

Hopalong Animal & Second Chance Animal Rescue

This animal welfare organization specializes in second chances for rescued animals and accepts donations throughout the year and plans frequent small fundraisers, but the big event is the annual gala, The Fur Ball (no date yet). HopAlong.org.

 

Island Cat Resources and Adoption

ICRA is a volunteer-run group that finds homes and provides supports for feral cats, mainly in Alameda and Oakland. Fundraising events include an annual Champagne Silent Auction (May), a jewelry sale (August), and a holiday boutique (December). ICRAEastBay.org.

 

Junior Achievement

JA seeks to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy. It holds several fundraising events each year, including a road race and bowling, bocce, and golf tournaments. The signature event is the JA Northern California Business Hall of Fame gala, April 4, 5:30-9:30 p.m., San Francisco Marriott Marquis, San Francisco, JuniorAchievement.org.

 

The Jazz & Democracy Project

Founder Wesley J. Watkins uses jazz as a metaphor to teach American democratic ideals in this Oakland youth program that links the arts and humanities to fosters creative thought and civic engagement. JazzAndDemocracy.com.

 

La Clínica

La Clínica provides primary health care and other services across Alameda, Contra Costa, and Solano counties in 40 locations, delivers health care services in a culturally and linguistically appropriate manner for the diverse populations it serves. It celebrates annually with the All That Jazz (& Sushi!) benefit event, with 300 guests from corporations, foundations, businesses, lifelong supporters, and friends joining together at Yoshi’s (no date yet). LaClinica.org, LaClinica.org/allthatjazz.

 

The Lawrence Hall of Science

Lawrence views its mission as inspiring and fostering science learning — especially for those with limited access to science. In previous years, the science hall has hosted an annual benefit event with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres among the exhibits, networking with leaders in science, technology, academic, and nonprofit fields, a seated dinner, and an auction for the new Inventors’ Lab (no 2019 date yet). LawrenceHallofScience.org.

 

The League of Women Voters of Oakland

The league promotes women and the democratic process, and the annual All-City Luncheon is its primary fundraiser. April 11, Grand Ballroom, Marriott Hotel, Oakland. My.LVW.org/california/oakland

 

Life Goes On Foundation

LGO teaches wellness and recovery for those with spinal-cord injuries who may face hardships and challenges by stressing positivity, knowledge, and athleticism. Last year, LGO sponsored A Night of Resilience, a gala for friends, family, supporters, donors, special celebrity guests, and community, to celebrate the foundation’s 10th anniversary (no date yet). LGOF.org.

 

Lighthouse Community Public Schools

A public charter K-12 school in Oakland, Lighthouse addresses transformation of the landscape of education for underserved students. It toasts the success and diversity of its students at an annual gala (October), while also raising funds to support the Lighthouse mission. LighthouseCharter.org.

 

The Livermore Knights of Columbus

The Livermore Knights of Columbus, a Catholic service club, fundraises by hosting the Annual Charity Crab Feed, an evening of fellowship and charity that includes live music, auctions, and lots of crab. Feb. 16, LivermoreKnights.com.

 

Lincoln

Originally the first racially integrated orphanage in Northern California, Lincoln today provides preventative, individualized, and comprehensive support services through education, family, and well-being programming. The annual gala, ROOT (no date yet), emphasizes its community root. LincolnFamilies.org.

 

Living Jazz

This nonprofit empowers children and adults, inspires creative growth, and unites communities through jazz. It honors Martin Luther King Jr. at In the Name of Love, an annual nondenominational tribute; showcases performing artists and public elementary school children; presents the Oakland Citizen Humanitarian Award and raises funds for the Living Jazz Children’s Project (no date yet). LivingJazz.org.

 

Meals on Wheels of Alameda County

In an effort to end senior hunger, MOW assists frail, homebound seniors in maintaining their independence by fundraising and providing financial support, community outreach, and strategic assistance by delivering nutritious meals and performing wellness checks. It sponsors an annual supported bike ride of varying distances in the fall. Its annual gala, Taste, features food from top Bay Area restaurants plus wine, live and silent auctions, and live entertainment (no date yet). FeedingSeniors.org.

 

Midway Shelter

The Alameda Homeless Network, a nonprofit advocate for homeless women and their children that protects their right to a domestic-violence free life, operates the Midway Shelter of Alameda in partnership with Building Futures with Women and Children. The annual Have a Heart Gala (no date yet) benefits the Midway Shelter. MidwayShelter.org, BFWC.org.

 

MISSSEY

Motivating, Inspiring, Supporting & Serving Sexually Exploited Youth is what MISSSEY stands for. It provides services to commercially sexually exploited youth and work for systemic change with those youth it assists. MISSSEY has fundraising events throughout the year, including the Inspire Change Gala (no date yet). MISSSEY.org.

 

National Coalition of 100 Black Women

The Oakland/Bay Area Chapter of the NCBW Inc. supports progressive women of African descent with a commitment to drive meaningful change that benefit women of color. The theme of its 21st Annual Madam C.J. Walker Recognition & Empowerment Forum this year is “Cultivating our Legacy: Intentionally Building our Future.” April 19, forum at 9 a.m., networking reception at 11 a.m., awards luncheon at 11:30 a.m., San Francisco Marriott Marquis, 780 Mission St., San Francisco. OneHundredBlackWomen.com.

 

Oakland Art Murmur

OAM promotes the awareness, visibility, understanding, and vibrancy of visual art in Oakland. Celebrate the East Bay’s arts and emerging artists in Oakland OAM’s Benefit Bash (no date yet), an annual evening of bites, beverages, auctions, and more. OaklandArtMurmur.org.

 

Oakland Ballet Company

Living up to its mission to provide accessible, relevant, and exciting dance for a diverse community, Oakland Ballet brings live performance previews from the spring repertory season to the annual Spring Gala that also boasts live music, a silent auction, and three-course meal (no date yet). Funds support the Discover Dance educational program, which provides arts education for more than 15,000 East Bay students each year. OaklandBallet.org.

 

Oakland Digital

Oakland Digital is a design studio bridging the opportunity and digital literacy divide among students, businesses, and entrepreneurs. The Inspiration Awards represent the ninth annual gala and fundraising celebration and this year honors three champions of positive change: Myesha Brown of the Golden State Warriors, Claudia Burgos of AC Transit, and Tammeil Gilkerson of Laney College. Dec. 12, 5:45-9 p.m., $200, Oakland Asian Cultural Center, 388 Ninth St., Suite 290, Oakland, OaklandDigital.org.

 

Oakland Heritage Alliance

OHA advocates the protection, preservation, and revitalization of Oakland’s architectural, historic, cultural, and natural resources through publications, education, and direct action. OHA honors the best recent projects, people, and efforts in Oakland preservation at the annual OHA Partners in Preservation Awards (no date yet). OaklandHeritage.org

 

Oakland Leaf

The organization empowers youth to think creatively and critically, make healthy decisions for themselves and their community, and approach life with curiosity and the desire to learn. The year-round program inspires and excites students with creative approaches to education and empowers youth with the resiliency and confidence they need to face life’s obstacles and opportunities. The annual gala includes student performances, guest speakers, and other opportunities and is held during the third week of March. OaklandLeaf.org.

 

Oakland LGBTQ Community Center

The city’s first all-inclusive LGBTQ center, this one opened in 2017 and is dedicated to enhancing and sustaining the well-being of Oakland’s LGBTQ individuals, families, and allies. It prioritizes wellness while providing social, educational, and holistic health-related programs, services and activities. OaklandLGBTQCenter.org.

 

Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation

Formed to garner additional financial support and volunteer resources for parks and recreation programs in Oakland, the foundation holds an annual fundraising gala, A Taste of Spring, an evening of food, wine, and live and silent auction (no date yet). OaklandParks.org.

 

Oakland Museum of California

The OMCA is a Bay Area museum that explores California art, history, and natural sciences with exhibitions designed to appeal to all. The Oakland Museum Women’s Board pulls off a huge public rummage sale, the annual White Elephant Sale, to benefit the museum. Preview sale: Jan. 27; White Elephant Sale: March 2-3, White Elephant Sale Warehouse, 333 Lancaster St., Oakland, WhiteElephantSale.org.

 

Oakland Public Education Fund

The Ed Fund raises money for all Oakland public schools — district-run and charter — to help students thrive by putting the right tools in students’ hands so they receive better education. There are many giving opportunities, but a special push occurs at an annual gala (no date yet) to increase the A to Z Fund. OaklandEdFund.org.

 

Oakland Symphony

Striving to make classical music accessible, particularly to those who might otherwise never hear live symphonic music, the Oakland Symphony schedules an annual black-tie optional gala (early November) to benefit the symphony and Youth Orchestra and Chorus. Performances round out the offerings. OaklandSymphony.org.

 

Oakland Zoo

The Oakland Zoo’s primary annual event is Walk in the Wild, a 21-and-over event that lets visitors stroll the zoo at dusk with wine, brews, and refreshments from 100-plus caterers, restaurants, breweries, and wineries and ends with dessert and dancing under the stars (no date yet). OaklandZoo.com.

 

Oral Lee Brown Foundation

Supporters of the Oral Lee Brown Foundation put on their finest to support the nonprofit’s mission of helping low-income kids get through college at their Annual Promise Auction and Dinner or 5k Walk for Education (no dates yet). OralLeeBrownFoundation.org.

 

Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir

This children’s choral group of international renown builds its reputation on performing new music, comprises 15 choirs, and stages The Golden Gate International Choral Festival (July). The choir’s board of directors hosts the annual Golden Gate Gala (November) to raise funds for the choir and scholarships for interested singers. PiedmontChoirs.org.

 

Powerful Women of the Bay

The annual Powerful Women of the Bay Awards Luncheon recognizes the achievements of Bay Area women in their career fields. Kudos go to a select group whose community contributions have enriched others’ lives. March 8, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Scott’s Seafood, 2 Broadway, Oakland, PowerfulEBWomen.com.

 

Prescott Circus Theatre

This after-school Oakland circus theater arts school and education program uses circus and theater arts education to empower and engage youth in developing confidence, teamwork, perseverance, artistic talent, and dedication to working for success. Prescott hosts an annual fundraiser (April), an interactive event with special guests and Prescott performances. PrescottCircus.org.

 

Project Open Hand

Headquartered in San Francisco but serving Oakland as well, this nonprofit offers medically tailored meals, groceries, and nutrition education to critically ill residents. OpenHand.org. It’s 26th annual Hand to Hand Luncheon was Dec. 13. OpenHand.org.

 

Restore Hetch Hetchy

This nonprofit works to return Hetch Hetchy to its origins and holds an annual dinner to honor those whose work significantly contributes to that cause, called the Restore Hetch Hetchy Annual Dinner (March). HetchHetchy.org.

 

Rhythmix Cultural Works

This Alameda community arts organization schedules live performances and devotes attention to cultivating artistic inclinations in youngsters. RCW has introduced an annual gala (no date yet) and arts festival called Pour Your heART Out honoring women’s contributions in winemaking, music, and the arts that continues and supports is cultural arts education programs. Rhythmix.org.

 

San Francisco Japantown Foundation

The San Francisco Japantown Foundation provides assistance to Japantown and Japanese-American related nonprofits. It starts the New Year the Japanese way with osechi ryori and the associated elaborate presentation of cuisine and dishes that ensue. Jan. 10, 6-9 p.m., Hotel Kabuki, 1625 Post St., San Francisco, JapantownFoundation.org.

 

SF Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle

SFBATCC is a nonprofit promoting theaters of all types and sizes by recognizing excellence and outstanding achievement from theater critics in all nine Bay Area counties. It hosts an annual awards ceremony each spring (no date yet) to celebrate superior work from the previous year. SFBATCC.org.

 

Shotgun Players

This company of artists wants to create bold, relevant, affordable theater that inspires and challenges audiences and artists to re-examine their lives, community, and the world. Sassafras, the annual gala, includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, food, and more. Proceeds assist the Make A Difference Program, which benefits the next generation of theater artists and audiences. June 8, 6 p.m., Impact Hub Oakland, 2323 Broadway, Oakland, ShotgunPlayers.org.

 

St. Vincent’s Day Home

SVDH has been offering comprehensive early-learning programs to children and family services to low-income families for more than a century. SVDH hosts an annual Fore the Children Golf Tournament with cocktails, snacks, and an auction (May), as well as an Adopt-a-Family program where you are matched with a family to buy holiday gifts for. Sign up online and deliver gifts by Dec. 12. SVDH.org.

 

Take Wings Foundation

Founded by actress Terri J. Vaughn of Hunters Point, the Take Wings Foundation supports and mentors youth by promoting self-sufficiency, supporting healthy youth development, and providing access to academic scholarships. TWF celebrates unsung heroes for positive impact on youth at the annual Angel Awards Benefit (no date yet). TakeWings.org.

 

Tandem, Partners in Early Learning

This early learning organization and kindergarten readiness advocate holds an annual fundraiser, Storybook Gala: Building Bridges, which features many children’s book authors and illustrators who come together to celebrate the power of children’s books. TandemBayArea.org.

 

TheatreFIRST

TheatreFIRST uses the stage at Live Oak Theatre to revolutionize the intersection of audience, artist, and activism by giving a voice to marginalized stories and transforming theater into a venue for social justice. It schedules a fundraising gala annually (no date yet). TheatreFirst.com.

 

UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland

Writers and musicians join forces for the Notes & Words Benefit for UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland to perform spoken word and original music — last year, the headliner was Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl. It’s one of the hottest events of the year and usually sells out. April 27, Fox Theater, Oakland, NotesAndWords.org.

 

Women’s Cancer Resource Center

WCRC creates opportunities for women with cancer to improve their quality of life through education, supportive services, and practical assistance in a variety of ways, including an annual gala (no date yet). WCRC.org.

 

Women’s Hall of Fame

Outstanding women are recognized for their achievements and contributions to Alameda County and its residents at this organization’s annual luncheon and awards ceremony honoring women in 12 different categories. The event (no date yet) and other community activities generate funds for organizations that help women and families in Alameda County, including efforts to provide comprehensive breast cancer prevention, education, and treatment services. ACGov.org/whof.

 

Yu Ming Charter School

This Chinese language immersion school in Oakland serves kids from kindergarten to eighth grade, providing a comprehensive program to hone inquisitive and analytic lifelong learning styles and schedules an annual fundraising gala (no date yet). YuMingSchool.org.

 

If your nonprofit or charitable organization was not included, email information to [email protected] for inclusion in next year’s guide with “Charitable Giving Guide 2019” in the subject line. Include information about your organization’s major annual fundraising event or gala.

Faces of the East Bay