The glittering waters of Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club set the perfect backdrop for Project Access’ Keys to Success Celebration on September 28, 2024. The event, presented by Bridge Investment Group, marked a significant milestone in the organization’s mission to provide vital services to residents in need.
The Project Access Team poses moments before the celebration begins.
Project Access Board of Directors and Advisory Board (Left to Right): Jonathan Webb, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Affordable Housing Access, Inc.; Christopher Garcia, Vice President and CRA Officer at Banc of California; Edward Mora, Senior Vice President and Orange County Market Leader at U.S. Bank; Jason Tajima, Market Manager and SVP at BMO Private Bank; Kristin Byrnes, CEO & President of Project Access; Taylor Lister, Client Executive at Marsh & McLennan Insurance Agency LLC; and Glenn Rogers, CEO of The Rogers Center for Learning.
The evening was particularly special as it commemorated Project Access’ 25th anniversary, featuring heartfelt reflections from long-time staff members and inspiring words from founders Jonathan Webb and Bill Hirsch. Among the 153 guests in attendance, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as West Coast University and US Bank were honored as Community Partner of the Year and Corporate Partner of the Year, respectively.
A highlight of the celebration was the moving testimonial from Gabriela, a Santa Ana resident whose journey with Project Access has led her toward her dream of becoming a school counselor. Her story perfectly embodied the organization’s mission of transforming lives through education and opportunity.
Jonathan Webb (left) and Bill Hirsch (right), Project Access Founders pose with Kristin Byrnes (middle), CEO & President of Project Access. Both Jonathan and Bill were celebrated and given an award for their 25 years of support.
Project Access Community Partner of the year, West Coast University.
The event featured an array of engaging activities, including silent and live auctions, a chance to win stunning Tacori jewelry, and an exciting Hawaii trip drawing. Guests were treated to entertainment from a live painter, an interactive magazine photobooth, and exceptional musical performances. Bridge Investment Group, The Christian V. & Lisa D. Young Family Foundation, and Anna & Dan Stanger led the way among the event’s generous sponsors, joined by 13 additional sponsors and underwriters.
Left to Right: Kristin Byrnes, CEO & President of Project Access, alongside Dan and Anna Stanger of the Danna Foundation, enjoying the stunning backdrop at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club.
Project Access Board Member and President of Bridge Property Management, Matt DeGraw, shares insights on the vital impact of Project Access’ mission.
Admiral Sponsor
Bridge Investment Group
Captain Sponsors
Anna & Dan Stanger
Christian V & Lisa D Young Foundation
Navigator Sponsor
Pacific Premier Bank
Anchor Sponsors
Affordable Housing Access
Aperto
ICON National
US Bank
West Coast University
Seafarer Sponsors
Banc of California
BMO
Bridge Property Management
Kristin Byrnes
Marsh McLennan Agency
The celebration also marked the launch of “The Neighborhood,” Project Access’ new monthly giving program designed to ensure sustainable support for their impactful services. This initiative represents another step forward in the organization’s commitment to creating lasting positive change in the communities they serve. To learn more, visit: The Nieghborhood Monthly Giving Program
Left to Right: Mary Sanchez, Regional Director of Clinical Partnerships; Johnny Arellano, Campus Executive Director; and Sherri Barrett, Campus Dean for the Nursing California Program, proudly accept the Community Partner of the Year award on behalf of West Coast University.
Wendy Chau and Ed Mora represented U.S. Bank in accepting the Corporate Partner of the Year award.
With over $296,000 raised, the Keys to Success Celebration not only celebrated Project Access’ past achievements but also secured vital resources for their future impact, ensuring they can continue their mission of building strong, stable communities through resident services.
For more information, please get in touch with us at development@project-access.org.
Click here to see more highlights from our 2024 Keys to Success Celebration.