By Gina Yarbrough
San Diego, CA–Meals on Wheels San Diego County will host its “Senior Prom: Forever Young” gala, a fundraising event on Saturday dedicated to supporting meal delivery services for seniors throughout the region.
The organization is inviting community members to the Kona Kai San Diego Resort to celebrate aging with an evening that redefines what it means to be a senior, highlighting vitality, connection, and the promise of exciting opportunities ahead.
The gala will also honor the Navarra family, owners of Jerome’s Furniture and longtime community philanthropists, in recognition of their ongoing commitment to supporting local seniors and disabled veterans through Meals on Wheels San Diego County.
More than 300 community leaders, philanthropists, and advocates of Meals on Wheels San Diego County are anticipated to attend the gala.
The event will kick off at 5 p.m. with a cocktail reception featuring bites from acclaimed local chefs, including Cohn Restaurant Group, Trust Restaurant Group, and Duke’s La Jolla, as well as a silent auction, live music, and other festive activities. Guests will enjoy a three-course sit-down dinner and live auction, all in support of the nonprofit’s mission to deliver nutritious meals, daily safety checks, friendly visits, and vital support to local seniors and disabled veterans.
During the program, two senior clients celebrating 71 years of marriage will be crowned prom King and Queen, creating a magical, unforgettable moment that captures the fun and festivity of the evening. Meals on Wheels San Diego County will also honor the Navarra family, owners of Jerome’s, for their philanthropic support of local seniors supported by the organization. The nonprofit aims to raise nearly $500,000 at this annual fundraiser to continue providing essential meal delivery services and fostering connection for local homebound seniors.
“Even during a time when uncertain funding challenges have tested nonprofits across our region, our community continues to step up and stand alongside us to support our mission,” says Brent Wakefield, CEO of Meals on Wheels San Diego County. “Our Senior Prom gala is more than a night of fun, glitter, and dancing, it’s a celebration of the incredible generosity that keeps our seniors nourished, connected, and smiling every day. We’re ready to boogie into a fun and festive evening of supporting the amazing seniors and disabled veterans who inspire us to live a youthful life, no matter our age.”
For over 65 years, Meals on Wheels San Diego County has delivered more than just meals. It delivers warm smiles, friendly conversation, and daily safety checks that help local seniors and disabled veterans feel empowered, live independently, and age with dignity. These small daily gestures create lasting connections and meaningful memories for the clients the organization serves.
The organization also undertakes a range of considerate efforts that enhance seniors’ quality of life, providing birthday acknowledgments, holiday cards, and other gestures that reinforce a sense of connection and care. Volunteers have additionally served as a vital safety net, alerting emergency responders when an older adult has fallen, suffered a medical episode, or required immediate assistance–interventions that, in several instances, have proven life‑saving.
Sponsors of this year’s gala include Cohn Restaurant Group, Norinne McKinney, Beth Murray, Bristol Myers Squibb, AAA, Sycuan Casino Resort, and TRIO Community Meals.
Proceeds from the event will support more than 3,000 seniors and disabled veteran clients throughout the region.
