This year, we are thrilled to celebrate the 40th anniversary of our beloved Sweetheart Gala & Auction by honoring Angela Ryan as our 2025 Sweetheart. Angela personifies the dedication, community spirit, and resilience we strive to foster at Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma Valley (BGCSV) and throughout the broader Sonoma Valley, embodying the phrase, ‘Once a Club Kid, Always a Club Kid.’
A Tradition of Celebrating Community Leaders
The Sweetheart Gala & Auction is a long-standing tradition — a night to honor those who have profoundly impacted our organization and the lives of youth and families in Sonoma Valley. In recent years, we’ve celebrated Lyn & Dub Hay, whose work with nonprofits across the Valley has left an indelible mark, and Chuck and Cathy Williamson, whose commitment to both Teen Services and BGCSV has exemplified the spirit of community. This year, the 40th Annual Sweetheart Gala & Auction, we are proud to continue this legacy by recognizing Angela Ryan, whose support and passion for the youth of Sonoma Valley is nothing short of inspiring.
Angela’s Impact
Angela is not only a dedicated Club parent and past Club member, but she’s also a fierce advocate for youth and teens across Sonoma Valley. Her visionary spirit has been instrumental in creating some of our most impactful programs, including the Teen Internship Program and the Empowerment Academy at Sonoma Valley High School. Angela’s deep involvement behind the scenes has expanded opportunities for local youth, making a lasting impact on their lives and futures.
“When Angela says, ‘I have an idea,’ you know something amazing is about to unfold,” said Cary Snowden, CEO of BGCSV. “She has an undeniable passion for tackling challenges.”
As a former Executive Director of the Sonoma Valley Education Foundation, Angela championed initiatives that enriched our programs, from mental health services to literacy development to enhancing our overall capacity. Her contributions have helped us grow our capacity and reach more young people with the resources they need to succeed.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Evening Honoring Angela
This year’s gala theme, “Bright Lights. Bright Futures,” is a nod to Angela’s love for New York City, where she once lived, and the countless opportunities she has helped create for our Valley’s youth. We invite you to join us on February 8th, 2025 at our Maxwell Clubhouse for a night that channels the vibrancy of NYC—celebrating Angela and the bright futures of the youth who inspire her.
Each year, the Sweetheart Gala & Auction brings our community together in support of BGCSV’s mission to provide youth and teens with opportunities to learn, discover, and succeed. Our 40th anniversary will feature a black-tie celebration with a dazzling lineup: silent and live auctions, gourmet food and dessert, and an unforgettable after-party with dancing and more. With a history of selling out, it’s an event not to be missed!
Support the Sweetheart Gala & Auction
Sponsorship opportunities for this event are now available, offering a special way to support our programs and honor Angela’s legacy. To become a sponsor, visit bgcsonoma.org/sweetheart or contact Michael Irvine, VP of Development & Marketing, at [email protected] or (707) 938-8544, ext. 104.
Celebrate the power of community and collective strength with us at this year’s Sweetheart Gala & Auction, where we’ll honor Angela Ryan and support a future filled with promise for our youth.
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