For more than six decades, Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest (PPPSW) has been a trusted provider of compassionate, high-quality reproductive health care for patients across San Diego, Riverside, and Imperial counties. On Friday, May 2, PPPSW will celebrate 62 years of service with its annual Anniversary Dinner at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, bringing together 800 supporters committed to protecting and expanding access to reproductive health and rights.
This year, PPPSW welcomes its new President and CEO, Jenny Black. A seasoned leader and staunch advocate for reproductive rights, Jenny brings with her a wealth of experience from her time leading Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. She steps into the role following the remarkable tenure of Darrah DiGiorgio Johnson, who has dedicated 19 years to advancing PPPSW’s mission and impact. To honor her unwavering commitment and leadership, Darrah will be presented with the Fearless Voice Award.
Event Chairs Robin Hensley and Peter Salvati, longtime supporters of Planned Parenthood, invite guests to an engaging evening that will not only celebrate PPPSW’s legacy but also reaffirm the urgent need to safeguard access to reproductive health care. A current PPPSW Board Member, Robin’s dedication to the cause began decades ago when, just out of college, she volunteered at a Planned Parenthood clinic in the Bay Area. Her passion for reproductive rights has only grown stronger over the years.
“Having choice about whether or when to become parents, and to have quality information and care along that path, is vital to every one of us,” Robin and Peter shared with GB Magazine. “It shapes our lives, it shapes our opportunities, and it enables us to become our best selves for our families and communities.”
The fight for reproductive freedom has never been more critical. As Robin and Peter note, millions of people have been stripped of their ability to access comprehensive, safe care. “We see how rights and access – which we and our family have benefited from and taken for granted – are being taken away, methodically and with ever-increasing speed. It is scary and infuriating. So, it is important to be voices that proudly speak up in this environment and to encourage others to do the same. We know that Planned Parenthood’s health services, education initiatives, and advocacy influence the trajectory of people’s lives. And it is rewarding to be a small part of that effort.”
The Anniversary Dinner is more than just a celebration – it is a call to action. Funds raised from the event fuel the compassionate, essential services patients receive at PPPSW’s 19 health centers. Thanks to a matching gift challenge from a generous anonymous donor, the impact of every gift will be doubled, dollar for dollar, up to a total of $150,000.
For those who believe in the fundamental right to reproductive health care, the Anniversary Dinner is an opportunity to stand in solidarity and invest in a future where access to care is a right, not a privilege. Join PPPSW on May 2 for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, impact, and commitment to the fight ahead. Visit www.planned.org/dinner to join the Honorary Committee, purchase a ticket, or contribute to the match.
