Girls Inc. of Carpinteria considers changes to its annual fundraiser.

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria has consolidated two previous annual gatherings into a single signature gala and is preparing the 2026 event under the theme Watch Her Rise to support year‑round programs for local girls.

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is rethinking the format of its long-running annual fundraiser as it prepares for the 2026 gala. For more than a decade the event has brought the local community together to celebrate girls and to sustain programs that help them grow strong, smart and bold. The fundraiser began as smaller, program-centered celebrations and later became a signature event called An Evening in Bloom held at Westerlay Orchid House. The organization has adapted the event over time, including a move to the Girls Inc. campus in 2019 and a fully virtual edition during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key details: - The event started as program-centered celebrations and introduced a signature fundraiser, An Evening in Bloom, in the mid-2010s at Westerlay Orchid House. - In 2019 the gala moved to the Girls Inc. campus because of venue changes and fire code requirements. - During the COVID-19 pandemic the event was held as a fully virtual experience. - Until recently the organization hosted two annual gatherings; last year it consolidated them into one signature fundraiser to reduce sponsor fatigue and deepen the evening's impact. - The 2026 gala theme is Watch Her Rise and will include stories from participants and alumnae, honors for community leaders, and program highlights. - Funds raised support year-round programming, including after-school enrichment, STEM initiatives, athletics, leadership development, mentorship, and college-to-career pathways. Summary: Consolidating previous gatherings into a single annual gala is intended to concentrate community and sponsor support and to deepen the event experience. Funds raised continue to support year-round programming that fosters confidence, leadership and academic and career pathways for girls. The organization is preparing for the 2026 Watch Her Rise Gala.