OUR FLAGSHIP FUNDRAISING EVENT

The Golden Gala is our flagship fundraising event and is the culmination of September's Gold Ribbon Campaign held in recognition of National Childhood Cancer Awareness month. The year's gala will be hosted at a private estate overlooking the ocean and will be a beautiful evening for our supporters and families.

If you have questions about this year's Golden Gala or if you would like to sponsor, please email Kirsten Stuart

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

EMAIL KIRSTEN ABOUT SPONSORSHIPS

DOWNLOAD SPONSOR BENEFITS GUIDE

Emcee & Auctioneer

Andrew Firestone

2025 HONOREES

The Heart of Gold Award recognizes an individual, individuals, organization, or business that has gone above and beyond in giving of their time and talent for the benefit of Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation and the families we serve. Their interactions with our families, volunteers, and staff have been genuine and compassionate, demonstrating a huge heart for the cause.

Jeff and Margo Barbakow have been dedicated champions of Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation since our early days. They played a pivotal role in launching some of our most memorable and impactful fundraising events, including the beloved Saks & the City and Gold Ribbon Luncheons. Beyond their work with TBCF, the Barbakows are deeply committed local philanthropists and continue to make a meaningful difference in Santa Barbara. We are honored to recognize their generosity, leadership, and belief in the power of community.

The Pay It Forward Award is in recognition of a Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation family or family member who has given back to the organization by paying-it-forward either during or after their child’s treatment. This individual or family member, despite the hardships they are either currently facing or have faced in the past, has chosen to give back to Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation by providing support to other families, sharing their testimonials at fundraising events, hosting beneficiary events, or being advocates of the cause.

The Rodriguez Family represents the heart of the Pay it Forward award. After Briana completed her pediatric cancer battle, she turned her experience into purpose by volunteering for TBCF. She became an advocate on behalf of pediatric cancer awareness, and in 2024 she interned with us and supported our Gold Ribbon Campaign. Briana was one of the first recipients of our Educational Advocacy program funding and is currently studying biomedical engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

Inspired by Briana’s journey, her sister Brenda became a nurse and now works at Cottage Hospital where her sister was treated. Brenda also gives back by volunteering with TBCF and has served on event committees. Passion for service runs deep in the Rodriguez family, with a third sister, Miriam, who started a Teddy Bear Club at her high school and is now an active volunteer.

Along with her daughters, Esther has volunteered with TBCF at our annual Holiday Party and at Family Connection events. The Rodriguez Family has touched so many lives in our community, and we’re honored to recognize them for their dedication, compassion, and ongoing connection to our mission.

The Humanitarian Award recognizes an individual, organization, or business that has been dedicated to improving the human condition of Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation families by alleviating suffering while supporting and contributing to the welfare and well-being of those in need. They have proven themselves to be true advocates for youth with cancer and their families by going the extra mile in providing resources, guidance, and services that enrich the lives of the families we serve in our local community.

Dr. Jordan Witt has been an instrumental figure in our Educational Advocacy Program since its inception, offering his professional expertise and a deep compassion and care for the families we serve. He conducts thorough post-treatment neuropsychological assessments that play a vital role in helping pediatric cancer survivors successfully transition back into the academic environment. His evaluations provide schools with the necessary insights to tailor support plans that address each child’s unique academic, emotional and cognitive needs. Dr. Witt’s commitment has made a profound and lasting impact on countless TBCF families, empowering children to re-enter school with confidence and equipping them for long-term success. We are deeply grateful for his ongoing partnership and dedication.