Radiant Futures Transported Guests Back to the Radiant Futures at its Annual Ball That Raised $153,000

Radiant Futures, a champion for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, recently transported guests back to an unforgettable ‘80s formal prom-inspired evening that raised $153,000 for its critical programs and services.

The Back to the Radiant Futures Ball, held last spring at The Pacific Club in Newport Beach, delivered on the promise of an evening of nostalgia, community, and mission, complete with an '80s formal prom theme - Enchantment Under the Sea Dance The spirited event included dinner, live and silent auctions, nostalgic music, and a dance floor that accommodated the freshest moves in Orange County.

Many guests played along with the theme, wearing outfits inspired by the ‘80s and Back to the Future movies as they attended the prom at fictious Hill Valley High and met the school’s administration and faculty, aka actor Tony Robinette playing Principal Strictland, and representatives of Radiant Futures Board and management.

Founded in 1976 as the first domestic violence shelters in Orange County and third the nation, Radiant Futures has spent nearly 50 years walking alongside survivors. Each year, more than 1,800 individuals access life-changing services through emergency shelter, transitional housing, legal advocacy, and clinical support. Another 2,500 people are reached through community outreach and prevention education.

During the evening, Radiant Futures Former Board ChairmanMark Jablonski presented the Radiant Partner Award to Auto Club Enterprises: Rise Up Business Resource Group.

“For the past three years, Auto Club Enterprises Rise Up Business Resource Group has exemplified what it truly means to be a community partner—demonstrating unwavering commitment to engagement, philanthropy, and hands on impact,” he said.

“What began as a volunteer experience has grown into a true partnership. From lending a hand at our fundraising events like the Annual Ball and Dueling Pianos, to supporting outreach at our Open House, to engaging with survivors at community events like Summer Splash and the Holiday Survivor Party—Auto Club Enterprises Rise Up Business Resource Group has contributed over 235 volunteers.

The Group embodies the spirit of collective action, bringing together a community of professionals who understand that workplace culture and community safety are inseparable. Their partnership reflects a shared belief that when women are empowered and protected, entire communities thrive.”Accepting the honor was Paulena Escobar, Vice President, Office of Sales and Branch Operations.

Previous recipients were Supervisor Doug and Paulette ChaffeemSuzy and Joe Lins of Century 21 DISCOVERY, and Citizens Business Bank.

Following the screening of a survivor’s moving story of healing and hope, the auctioneer had guests raising their paddles for an important new initiative.Radiant Futuresannounced that it is taking a bold step into its future.It will become a housing provider in order toaddress one of the greatest barriers survivors face - the cost of safe, stable housing when they are ready to move into a home of their own.

The plans call for building three accessory dwelling units, including two two-bedroom, one-bath homes, and one one-bedroom, one-bath home. These homes will be truly affordable with rent set at just 30 percent of a survivor’s income, creating a pathway to independence that so many are ready for but simply cannot access.

An array of live auction items also temped bidders to reach into their wallets for a great cause.They included:

Lakeside Escape: Six Nights in Laconia, New Hampshire, where the winning bidder is set to enjoy a spacious three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath private home with beach access along the serene waterfront of Pickerel Cove.

Four Dodgers tickets behind the Dodgers’ dugout on Friday, September 18 as the Dodgers take on the Giants.

Luxury Bay Cruise: Sail San Diego in Style, featuring a three to four--hour private cruise on San Diego Bay aboard a luxurious 42-foot Sea Ray Sundancer, departing from the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina. This exclusive outing accommodates up to eight guests.

Wyland painting: Hawaii Volcano on the Sea, 2012, a powerful fusion of earth and ocean that captures nature at its most dramatic.

The Ultimate Dugout Time Machine, providing 16 seats in Silver MVP Suite 22 on the 3rd base side at Angel Stadium as the Los Angeles Angels take on the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday, August 29.

Leading sponsors of the event were Banc of California, ColumbiaBank, Customers Bank, and RDM General Contractors.

“What a night.”said Radiant Futures Chief Executive Officer Mark Lee.“Because of you, survivors in our community have access to safe shelter, compassionate support, and the resources they need to move forward on their own terms. Your presence, generosity, and belief in this work are felt far beyond the ballroom. Every bid, every gift, every conversation was an act of care, and survivors feel that care even when they cannot be in the room. We are stepping boldly into our 50th anniversary year, and you are the reason we can do so with confidence, with hope, and with joy. Thank you for your generosity and your belief in this mission.”

Every dollar given helps Radiant Futures build a safer community by working to prevent domestic violence and trafficking.

For more about Radiant Futures, visit www.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 multilingual helpline at (877) 531-5522 or love@radiantfutures.org.For more information, visit www.radiantfutures.org