Since its founding in 2016, the Wine & Wishes Committee has played a defining role in shaping one of Make-A-Wish San Diego’s most impactful fundraising events. What began as a modest wine tasting has evolved into a premier black-tie gala, now raising more than one million dollars annually to grant life-changing wishes for children facing critical illnesses. At the center of this transformation is a dedicated group of volunteers whose vision, creativity, and leadership have built both a signature event and an enduring legacy.
The committee was established by founding members Dai Logan, Kathy Baird, Lisa Paul-Hill, and Tracie Hogencamp, who shared a deep commitment to the Make-A-Wish mission. Their early leadership laid the groundwork for the event’s growth and long-term success. Over the years, the committee expanded to include Lisa Clifford, Philly Montbleau, Kim Alessio, Kim Hegardt, Justin Tomlin, Jenny Tomlin, Lesley Couture, Jessica Wakefield, and Marion Davis, bringing together a diverse group united by purpose and passion.
Together, this remarkable group has transformed Wine & Wishes into a cornerstone event for the organization and the region. The committee has grown to more than three times its original size, reflecting both the event’s increasing prominence and the power of its mission to inspire community involvement. Each year, members contribute their time, expertise, and networks to secure sponsorships, fill tables, and curate exceptional auction experiences. Their efforts ensure not only an unforgettable evening for guests, but also critical funding to grant wishes.
Beyond the event itself, the committee’s impact extends to the broader community. Through a decade of service, they have elevated awareness, strengthened relationships with supporters, and deepened understanding of the mission. Their work has helped shape how the community engages with Make-A-Wish San Diego, demonstrating the powerful influence of sustained volunteer leadership.
The Wine & Wishes Gala remains rooted in a singular purpose: to raise funds that make wishes possible for children facing critical illnesses. The committee plays an essential role in advancing that purpose, ensuring that every element of the event supports meaningful impact. Their dedication has helped improve the lives of countless children and families, bringing hope, strength, and joy when they are needed most.
This year’s Wine & Wishes Gala will take place on Saturday, October 17 at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort in Carlsbad. Supported by more than 400 individual and corporate partners, the evening will bring this year’s theme of Magic to life through a thoughtfully curated black‑tie experience featuring live entertainment, powerful local wish stories, wish family ambassadors, and a multi-course dinner with fine wines. Dynamic silent and live auctions will round out the evening, with each element designed to reflect the spirit of the theme and the extraordinary impact of wish granting.
In honoring the Wine & Wishes Committee, the community recognizes an exceptional group of individuals whose commitment has helped transform an event into a legacy -one that continues to change lives, one wish at a time.
www.wish.org/sandiego
