Celebrating Inclusion and the Joy of Living
On Saturday, May 16, the Grand Ballroom at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina was transformed into an atmosphere of enchantment and wonder for The Arc of San Diego’s highly anticipated 2026 Annual Gala. Grounded in the spirit of its theme, "Joie de Vivre"—the French expression for the absolute joy of living—the black-tie affair brought together local philanthropists, community leaders, and advocates to celebrate the beauty of inclusion and the spirit of giving.
The festivities commenced at 5:30 p.m. with a lively cocktail reception, offering attendees the perfect opportunity to mingle and preview a spectacular selection of auction lots. At 7:00 p.m., the celebration transitioned into the grand ballroom for a sophisticated dinner. The momentum carried into the evening with a high-spirited live auction commanded by top auctioneer Clint Bell, capped off by an energetic musical performance from Wayne Foster Entertainment.
Guided by the dedicated leadership of Gala Chairs Phyllis and John Parrish, Barbie and Dan Spinazzola, and Richard Bailey, the affair stood as a premier showcase of sophisticated corporate giving. Yet, beneath the high-end decor and the energy of the dance floor, the true essence of the evening remained firmly anchored to its vital mission: empowering individuals with disabilities with the essential opportunities to grow, succeed, and achieve their fullest potential.
A Legacy of Empowerment
For 75 years, The Arc of San Diego has been a cornerstone of support in the region, serving more than 2,000 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities—including autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome—each year.
Driving Real-World Impact
Every dollar raised during the night goes directly toward supporting life-enhancing, local programs throughout San Diego County. Each sponsorship and individual contribution plays a tangible role in driving equity and accessibility.
As Vice President of Marketing & Development Jennifer Bates Navarra noted leading up to the event, the gala does more than just highlight the impact of The Arc’s daily work—it actively unites the community to build a more accessible, inclusive future where dependency is viewed not as a weakness, but as a collaborative strength.
Photography by Essy Ghavameddini
