Tilly’s Life Center (TLC) shined a light on teen mental health at its 11th Annual “I Am Giving” Gala this past weekend, raising over $457,000 for its youth empowerment programs. The theme this year was “Shoot for The Stars,” paying homage to TLC’s proactive and preventative emotional wellness program that encourages teens to navigate life’s adversities and chase their hopes and dreams. TLC’s “I Am Me” program has transformed the lives of thousands of students. Thanks to the support of gala guests, donors and underwriters, TLC can continue serving youth in the Orange County community and positively shape the course of their lives.
Held at the celestially embellished A/V Irvine, the “I Am Giving” gala opened its doors at 5 PM with guest arrivals, welcoming guests with the enchanting sounds of a live violinist performing well-loved and recognizable melodies. Attendees enjoyed an array of delectable hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktails and whiskey tastings, a curated cigar lounge, and the opportunity to bid on extraordinary items and one-of-a-kind experiences in the silent auction.
The TLC team greeted guests throughout the evening, offering moments for photos, warm conversation, and meaningful connection among friends, supporters, and community members.
Guests made their way to the luminous ballroom, where they enjoyed a symphonic performance by the talented students of the Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA). The program was then commenced by Mayor Larry Agran of Irvine, who spoke to the importance of championing the youth of the community. Following the opening remarks, TLC Founder Tilly Levine, TLC Board Chair Dr. Adrienne Matros, and Training Manager, Beth LaVallee took the stage and led attendees in a trademark activity of TLC’s “I Am Me” program, where everyone went around the room and wished each other health and happiness. Immediately, the energy in the room shifted from sitting next to strangers to now friends.
TLC then celebrated the first honoree of the night, Principal Mike Pooley of Anaheim Union School District, with the “I Am One Of A Kind” award for his dedication and support of TLC’s mission and visionary guidance to help students and staff reach their fullest potential.
One of TLC’s teen ambassadors, Julie, gave a dreamy performance of “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” as guests enjoyed a delicious four-course meal. TLC’s CEO Colleen Versteeg took a moment to thank all in attendance and reminded them that due to their generous contributions and faith in TLC’s programs, they are like stars in the night skies, guiding teens towards their bright futures.
“Forty-two percent of teens have reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in recent years, making our work at TLC critical,” said Colleen Versteeg, TLC’s CEO. “For our youth, I ask that you be the light that leads, the dream that inspires, the star that never stops shining, and the constellation that guides them toward their dreams. The support shared tonight will not end when we walk out the doors. It will echo into classrooms, into homes, and into the hearts of teens searching for hope. Your generosity will travel further and shine brighter than any of us could ever imagine, as you will witness when our four courageous teens take the stage this evening to share their inspiring stories.”
The evening shifted into high excitement with the live auction, where guests placed bids on one-of-a-kind experiences including bread making with Tilly Levine, a private tour of Tillys, Inc. and Oakley Headquarters, an unforgettable Bali Beachfront and South African safari, Private jet and Thermal Racing, and other exclusive offerings. Following the live auction, guests eagerly raised their paddles, making generous contributions in support of TLC’s work. In a remarkable show of support, Tillys, Inc. (NYSE: TLYS) Executive Chairman and Co-Founder Hezy Shaked matched many donations, significantly amplifying the impact and helping expand TLC’s reach.
The most powerful moment of the evening was when four TLC Ambassadors, Ava, Ramon, Chris, and Sophia, shared their personal stories on stage. Each asked the audience to “STAND” with them if they had faced similar struggles, like anxiety, depression, life-changing health issues, eating disorders, addiction, isolation, and more. These students once felt lost, but TLC’s “I Am Me” program lit up their life path with positivity. Through it, these four resilient teens gained the emotional tools and confidence they needed to overcome adversity and thrive.
To close out the program, TLC honored Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel with the “I Am Making A Difference,” Award. San Manuel generously gifted TLC with a grant to help TLC reach more students and spread its emotional wellness tools to more educational sites across Southern California. The evening also featured a heartfelt tribute to Tilly’s showcased through a dynamic video highlighting the powerful collaboration between Tilly’s and TLC.
The night concluded with guests donning DIFF Sunglasses as they looked forward to a brighter future, glimmering with hope for teens. “TLC’s future’s so bright, we have to wear shades.”
TLC extends its deepest gratitude to event sponsors, including Tillys, TLD Law, Ecco App, Goldman Sachs, Direct Edge, DIFF Charitable Eyewear, Stone Groove Stillhouse, U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, Aston Martin of Beverly Hills, O’Gara, Frome Family Foundation, Michael and Rebecca Cemo Foundation, Walking Softer, BDO USA, Levi’s, Oakley, Quantum Cars, and Burkhart Brothers, The North Face, Brixton, Owala, Hydorjug, Rainbow Sandals, Adidas, Nixon, New Balance, Slowtide, Los Angeles Angels, Fjallraven, Raising Canes, Smith and Severson Builders, Archie’s Ice Cream, The Waterfront Beach Resort, Anaheim Ducks, Califino Tequila, Hershel Supply Co., Primitive, Payless Ace Hardware, Salty Crew, Kendra Scott and more. Special thanks to our event partners, Kapture – An Experience Design Agency, Eleveight Cigar Events, Gavel Group, Zack Krone, and Vox DJs.
About TLC
Tilly’s Life Center (TLC) is a transformative nonprofit at the forefront of addressing the urgent mental health crisis faced by today’s young people. Through strategic partnerships with educational institutions and community-based organizations, TLC offers its “I Am Me” curriculum, equipping adolescents and young adults with critical life skills to develop a healthy identity and positive mindset, manage emotions, achieve personal and academic goals, foster strong relationships, and make responsible decisions, ultimately setting them on a path toward lasting success and overall well-being.
For more information on Tilly’s Life Center, please visit www.tillyslifecenter.org and stay connected by following @tillyslifecenter and searching these hashtags #TillysLifeCenter #TLC.
