The Good Times Rolled at Radiant Futures’ Mardi Gras-Themed Gala

Welcomed by the catchy Louisiana French phrase, “Laissez les bons temps rouler,” the good times indeed rolled as nonprofit Radiant Futures, formerly Women’s Transitional Living Center, Inc. (WTLC), entertained guests with the stirring sights and sounds of a New Orleans-style Mardi Gras April 26 at The Pacific Club in Newport.

The event raised more than $137,000 to help ensure survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking have access to vital recovery services, including the Key Housing Program that sets survivors up for success, helping them create budgets and working with the community to find permanent housing for them.

During the evening, the spirit of New Orleans came alive for guests as they stepped into a world where the extraordinary reigns, dreams soar high, and together, a safer, brighter communities will be built for all.

They received Mardi Gras beads and enjoyed libations and hors d'oeuvres served up amid a dazzling display of silent auctions items. Then with a musical flourish from an authentic brass band, entertainer Madame Mel & her Mardi Gras Brass emerged. Playing and singing New Orleans-style music, they led revelers along a route in the club that led to the ballroom.

There they discovered a Mardi Gras beaded tree and a lagoon featuring a boat and dock moored to a stump at the foot of a grand New Orleans mansion. Once seated, they soaked in the soulful sounds of jazz, savored delicious Creole-inspired cuisine, reveled in each other’s company, and most importantly, raised funds to build a safer, stronger community where everyone can live and thrive free from violence and harm.

“Every dollar given will help us build a safer community by working to prevent domestic violence and trafficking, and creating pathways to independence,” Radiant Futures Chief Executive Officer Mark Lee said. “Thank you for supporting survivors.”

The 2025 Radiant Partner Award was presented by Radiant Futures’ Board Chaiman Mark Jablonski to Citizens Business Bank that for more than eight years has exemplified what it means to be a true community partner—committed to engagement, philanthropy, and meaningful impact.

What began as a generous contribution to help open Radiant Futures’ Fullerton Campus Center has evolved into a strong and enduring partnership. From sponsoring signature events like the Ball, the End-of-Year Campaign, and the Survivor Holiday Party, to volunteering their time to assemble Thanksgiving baskets, the bank has consistently demonstrated a heartfelt commitment to the nonprofit’s mission of empowerment and support.

In 2024, the bank took that commitment even further by selecting Radiant Futures as the charitable beneficiary of their annual golf tournament—raising $30,000 to help sustain the work.

The bank’s Vice President, Service Manager Monica Mendez accepted the award on behalf of her employer. In the audience were 2023 recipients Supervisor Doug and Paulette Chaffe, and 2024 recipients Suzy and Joe Lins of Century 21 DISCOVERY.

Mel then took centerstage to introduce a video that expressed the difference donors are making in the lives of survivors like a woman named Jamie and her family. Mel then invited guests to raise their paddles not for a prize, but for a purpose. A stirring display of generosity led by auctioneer Eric Daroca followed that had guests meeting and then exceeding a $15,000 match in support the Key Housing Program that is a lifeline for many survivors.

The live auction portion of the evening then tempted guests with unique experiences and the potential for lifelong memories, beginning with a chance to win four field-level seats at Dodger Stadium for Star Wars Night, May 14.

Travel enthusiasts then had the opportunity to let their imaginations take flight.

Fantasy trips included an escape to the heart of Tuscany with a six-night stay for two in a one-bedroom apartment located in the center of Cortona, the town made famous by the movie, Under the Tuscan Sun. This unforgettable experience included a Tuscan cheese and charcuterie tasting at a local wine bar, and a gourmet four-course dinner paired with wine at one of the town’s most popular restaurants.

Next up was a seven days and six nights stay in a charming private cabin located on picturesque Lake Alsensjön in Sweden. Located about a five-hour scenic train ride from Stockholm, the remote retreat sleeps up to eight and offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Bidders could also raise their paddles for an all-Inclusive tropical beach escape. Paradise awaits with a five-night getaway in a studio king room with ocean views for two adults at a resort of their choice in Mazatlán, Mexico or the Caribbean/Dominican Republic. The package included the option to add children at the time of booking for an additional fee.

With the support of donors, each year, Radiant Futures provides transformative programs that touch more than 1,800 lives and inspires more than 2,500 through outreach and education.

Sponsors at the Krew Captain level were Citizens Business Bank, Banc of California, RDM General Contractors, and Pacific Premier Bank. Each received a traditional, New Orlena-style hand-decorated umbrella.

For more about Radiant Futures, visit https://radiantfutures.org

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About Radiant Futures (formerly Women’s Transitional Living Center, Inc.)

Radiant Futures is a non-profit organization dedicated to building a safer community by providing crisis support, services for all survivors, and education to prevent domestic violence and trafficking. Radiant Futures has served over 200,000 people since its founding in 1976. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, contact our 24-hour bilingual helpline at (877) 531-5522 or love@radiantfutures.org. For more information, visit www.radiantfutures.org