For eighty years, Las Patronas has helped shape the philanthropic landscape of San Diego County. Founded in 1946 by fourteen visionary women, this all-volunteer organization began with a simple but powerful idea: host a beautiful event and dedicate the proceeds to those in need. That first Jewel Ball raised $1,357. Eight decades later, Las Patronas has donated more than $28 million to nonprofit organizations serving communities across the County.
Las Patronas remains a small but remarkably dedicated group of women who commit six years of service to the organization. Members represent Las Patronas throughout the community while also participating in the work that powers its success. Leadership roles rotate annually, with a new President and Jewel Ball Chair elected each year to guide the organization and its signature event.
The organization’s 80th anniversary year is led by President Colleen Lighter and Jewel Ball Chair Jenny McGowan. Lighter guides the mission and philanthropic work of Las Patronas, while McGowan, a San Diego native and longtime philanthropist, brings the vision for this year’s Jewel Ball to life.
The Jewel Ball is the heart of Las Patronas’ fundraising efforts and one of San Diego’s most anticipated philanthropic evenings. Yet what guests experience as a seamless celebration is the result of months of preparation and thousands of volunteer hours from members and their loved ones. Much of that work happens at what members affectionately call “The Warehouse.” Each year, members gather weekly to design and build the elaborate décor that transforms the event space. Power tools hum, paintbrushes sweep, and creativity fills the room as members drill, stencil, upholster, and construct every detail themselves – from centerpieces and bar backs to dramatic installations and decorative accents.
This year marks a special milestone as Las Patronas celebrates its 80th anniversary with the 2026 Jewel Ball, Festa di Venezia, on August 8 at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club. The evening draws inspiration from the pageantry and romance of the historic Venetian Republic. Guests arrive to an atmosphere reminiscent of St. Mark’s Square. Venetian masks, gilded accents, chandeliers, and ornate décor set the scene as guests sip spritzes, enjoy cicchetti, and mingle during the golden hour by the sea. As the evening unfolds, attendees move into a grand outdoor ballroom where a live band, dinner, and dancing carry the celebration late into the night.
And then, almost as quickly as the magic appears, it disappears.
After midnight, the same volunteers who spent months creating the experience begin carefully dismantling it. Everything is packed away and returned to the warehouse. By the next day, the club is once again quiet, leaving only memories of a remarkable evening.
Yet the true purpose of the Jewel Ball extends far beyond one night of celebration. Through a rigorous grant review process that includes written applications, financial analysis, and on-site evaluations, Las Patronas directs the funds raised to nonprofit organizations throughout San Diego County. Grants support causes including healthcare, education, social services, environmental initiatives, cultural arts, emergency response, and programs for military families.
The Jewel Ball may last only one evening, but its impact continues all year long. To learn more about Las Patronas, visit www.laspatronas.org and join on August 8 for an unforgettable evening supporting San Diego’s nonprofit community.
