2026 Gala Celebration
25 Years of Great Futures,
Made Possible by You
Thank You for an Unforgettable Night
On October 10, our community filled the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village to celebrate 25 years of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley, and to make sure the next 25 are even stronger. To our sponsors, table hosts, bidders, and guests: thank you. Your generosity keeps our promise that no child is ever turned away because of what their family can afford. Scroll through the photos below to relive the evening, find yourself and your friends, and download your favorites to share.
Want to be part of next year’s celebration?
2026 Gala Highlights
Celebrating 25 Years and the Kids Who Made Them
Since 2001, our Clubs have reached more than 20,000 children and teens from Calabasas to Thousand Oaks. On October 10, we celebrated every one of them, and the people who made it possible.
Our Youth Took the Stage
Esha, Greater Conejo Valley Youth of the Year, shared how the Club gave her a safe place, mentors who believed in her, and the confidence to imagine her future.
Jessica, Catlin Club Youth of the Year, was recently named one of just 12 teens nationwide to the BGCA National Youth Advisory Council.
Dexter, Morton Club Youth of the Year, rounded out an inspiring lineup of young leaders.
A Night Made Possible by You
From the first toast to the last song, every moment of the evening was made possible by the generous sponsors, table hosts, and guests who showed up for Conejo Valley’s kids. We’re especially grateful to Presenting Sponsor Karen & Ed Jefferson and Legacy Hosts Marje and Cal Johnston for leading the way.
A Celebration of Service: We presented the Cal Johnston Service Award, named for our founder, to Cory Risvold of Risvold Construction Company for his longtime support of the Clubs.
Bidding for Great Futures: Guests raised their paddles in a lively live auction, with every bid going directly to scholarships, programs, and safe spaces for local youth.
The AfterGlow Party: The celebration carried on late into the night with live music and a hosted bar, presented by The Lake Avenue Group at Morgan Stanley.
Your Support at Work
77,000+ snacks distributed this past year
Nearly $700,000 in scholarships and financial aid in 2025
3,000+ summer program registrations
Plus newly refreshed multi-sport courts at the John Notter Club and Morton Club, now ready for basketball, volleyball, and pickleball.
Thank you for being part of it.
“When we talk about 25 years, we’re talking about generational change in our community.”
– Matthew Diloreto, Gala Emcee
Empowering the Future of Our Community’s Youth
We are committed to ensuring that our community’s youth, especially those who need us most, graduate from high school on time with a plan for the future and the skills to become successful adults. Our clubs and camps are making that impact.
Of our members:
Miss less than 5 days of school
Expect to graduate from high school
Plan to pursue a college education or vocational training
Have done things to help people in their community
Secure Your Sponsorship Now
We offer a wide array of sponsorship opportunities to local philanthropists and businesses. Tap into a whole new audience, connect with other businesses and local leadership, and drive awareness for your brand and dedication to our communities by supporting the Future Ready Gala in 2026.
If you would like to purchase an ad for the Gala Tribute Book, click here.
2026 Gala Honoree
Cory Risvold, Cal Johnston Service Award
Great futures are built on strong foundations, and few people understand that better than Cory Risvold. A builder by trade and a champion by choice, Cory leads Thousand Oaks-based Risvold Construction Company and serves on our Board of Governors, where his longtime generosity supports kids at our Clubs and summer camp alike. At our 25th anniversary gala, we were honored to present Cory with the Cal Johnston Service Award, named for our founder. Thank you, Cory, for helping us build the next 25 years.
Thank You for Making a Difference!
Together, we are not only helping to provide immediate opportunities and resources but also building a legacy that will shape brighter futures for years to come. We are deeply grateful to our dedicated staff, Gala Committee, Board, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the event was a success. Your commitment, hard work, and passion have made a real difference. Thank you for believing in our mission and for being part of this transformative journey!
Unable to attend but still wish to support?
Legacy Host
Marje and Cal Johnston
Thank You to our 2026 Sponsors!
Presenting Sponsor: Karen & Ed Jefferson
Bid Paddle Sponsor
Dinner Hosts
Linda & David Catlin
Seth & Jolyn Haye
Karen & Jeff Johnston
AfterGlow
THE LAKE AVENUE GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY
Diamond Sponsors
Daniel & Susan Kane and Albert & Angela Nassi
Silver Anniversary
Alissa Morton
Abigail & Sam Querrey and Kelsey & Michael Stewart
Rachelle & Eric Wan
