An Evening of Music, a Lasting Promise to Children
Promises2Kids’ Dream On Concert Gala at Joan Waitt’s La Jolla estate brought attention to a mission that extends from childhood through the transition to independent adulthood.
An evening of celebration carries special meaning when its purpose reaches far beyond the gathering itself. On September 14, 2026, Promises2Kids held its annual Dream On Concert Gala at the La Jolla estate of Joan Waitt, bringing the community together in support of current and former foster youth throughout San Diego County. Presented by Kevin and Raegan Prior, the fundraiser paired a private-estate setting with a reception, dinner, fundraising activities, and featured entertainment by Foreigner.
The occasion offered a fitting introduction to an organization whose work depends on sustained community involvement. A gala can bring supporters together for a single evening. The services it helps fund must continue through school semesters, family separations, housing challenges, and the everyday uncertainties of growing up.
For Promises2Kids, that continuity is central. The organization works with young people whose needs change as they move through childhood and into adulthood, providing practical assistance alongside opportunities to build relationships, pursue an education, and establish greater stability.
Founded in 1981 as the Child Abuse Prevention Foundation of San Diego County, Promises2Kids has spent 45 years responding to the needs of children affected by abuse and neglect. The nonprofit reports that it serves more than 2,000 current and former foster youth annually through programs including Camp Connect, Guardian Scholars, Foster Futures, Mentoring, and Foster Funds.
The September gala placed that mission within an evening designed for connection and participation. The published schedule began with a Dream Makers VIP reception from 5 to 6 p.m., followed by the general reception and silent auction at 6 p.m. A sunset cocktail reception led into dinner and the program at 7 p.m., with the private concert scheduled immediately afterward.
The reception, dinner, and musical program provided the occasion. The enduring purpose was to help ensure that children and young adults have support available when they need it—during a sibling reunion, an academic challenge, a move toward stable housing, or the next uncertain step into adulthood. That is the promise behind Dream On: a community willing to help young people build futures they can imagine for themselves.
photography by Gilda Adler
