FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Sandra Wellhausen
Sr. Director Marketing & Development
San Diego Youth Services
619-507-2077
swellhausen@sdyouthservices.org 

San Diego Youth Services to Host Building Futures for Youth Benefit Auction Featuring Local Wineries, Chocolatiers and Skyline Views 

The event will feature local wineries and artisan chocolatiers while supporting youth facing homelessness and crisis 

SAN DIEGO, CA (March 19, 2026) — San Diego Youth Services, one of the region’s leading youth-serving nonprofits, will bring together community leaders, local wineries and artisan chocolatiers for an evening of philanthropy and skyline views at its Building Futures for Youth Benefit Auction on May 16 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Ultimate Skybox at DiamondView Tower in downtown San Diego. 

Set high above Petco Park with sweeping views of the San Diego skyline, the fundraiser will offer guests tastings from some of San Diego’s most beloved local wineries and chocolatiers, along with live and silent auctions featuring unique items and memorable experiences. Guests will also hear inspiring stories from youth whose lives have been transformed through San Diego Youth Services programs. 

“Every young person deserves the chance to build a future filled with stability, connection and opportunity,” said Jonathan Castillo, CEO of San Diego Youth Services. “For more than 50 years, San Diego Youth Services has helped youth facing homelessness, abuse and instability find safety, support and a path forward. This event brings our community together to ensure young people know they are not alone.” 

Proceeds from the Building Futures for Youth Benefit Auction directly support SDYS programs that serve more than 16,000 youth and their families each year across San Diego County. 

Across San Diego County, youth homelessness is often hidden but widespread, with nearly 10,000 people experiencing homelessness, highlighting the scale of housing instability in the region.  

Among young people, the need is even greater. More than 23,000 children and youth experience homelessness in San Diego County. Many are staying temporarily with other families, in cars or in unstable housing situations after experiencing family conflict, abuse or foster care instability.  

San Diego Youth Services operates the region’s only shelter dedicated specifically to youth experiencing homelessness and crisis, providing a critical safety net and pathway toward stability for vulnerable young people. 

“We’re one of the only organizations in San Diego providing complete, continuous care for youth facing homelessness, trauma and instability,” said Castillo. “From the moment a young person walks through our doors, we stay with them for as long as they need us on their journey toward independence and stability.” 

The organization also provides a wide range of programs for youth and families across the region, including emergency shelter, housing, mental health support, drop-in centers, educational services and long-term life skills development. 

With limited capacity at the Ultimate Skybox, early reservations are encouraged as community leaders, corporate partners and supporters gather for this special evening to build brighter futures for San Diego’s youth. 

For more information, to donate auction items, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, visit sdyouthservices.org/2026-benefit-auction. 

About San Diego Youth Services 

Founded in 1970, San Diego Youth Services is dedicated to empowering youth to thrive by meeting their basic needs, building positive connections and providing lifelong skills for independence. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, SDYS has helped more than 823,000 youth and families through prevention programs, early intervention and comprehensive support services throughout San Diego County.