Media Advisory

For immediate release: May 5, 2025
Contact: Sandra Wellhausen
(619) 507-2077
swellhausen@sdyouthservices.org

 

San Diego Youth Services to Host Gala & Benefit Auction Honoring CEO Walter Philips' 25 Years of Leadership

This Gala & Benefit Auction is a tribute to the strength of community, the impact of compassion and the unwavering belief in the potential of our youth.

San Diego, Calif. (May 5, 2025) — San Diego Youth Services (SDYS) is proud to announce its upcoming Gala & Benefit Auction on Saturday, June 7, 2025, celebrating the extraordinary 25-year legacy of CEO Walter Philips, who will be retiring this summer.

The elegant event will bring together community members, leaders and supporters for an inspiring evening, complete with a welcome reception, 3-course dinner, and silent and live auctions featuring exclusive items and experiences.

Proceeds from the event will directly support SDYS’ life-saving programs serving over 14,000 youth annually — including children, teens, and young adults experiencing homelessness, abuse, foster care instability and crisis.

“Leading San Diego Youth Services has been the honor of my life,” said Philips. “Together, we’ve helped thousands of youth find hope, healing and stability. I invite the community to join us in celebration and to ensure this critical work continues for generations to come.”

The event will take place at Liberty Station - Building 177, 2875 Dewey Rd, San Diego, CA 92106 on Saturday, June 7 at 5:30 p.m.

Funds raised will support essential services such as housing, food, mental health care, education and job training for San Diego’s most vulnerable youth.

“The work we do at San Diego Youth Services has always been about one thing, giving young people the chance to not just survive but to thrive,” said Philips. “This Gala is a celebration of what we’ve accomplished, and a call to keep going until every youth in San Diego has the support they deserve.”

Tickets & Sponsorships:

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now. To reserve your seat or become a sponsor, visit https://sdyouthservices.org.

About San Diego Youth Services:
San Diego Youth Services has been serving youth in crisis since 1970. Today, the organization supports more than 14,000 young people annually through services that promote safety, stability, and success. From emergency shelter to mental health support, SDYS works to end youth homelessness and transform lives throughout the region.

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