Orange County Family Justice Center (OCFJC) Foundation held its annual fundraising gala Oct. 15, featuring a Broadway-caliber performance produced by Cathy Rigby and the McCoy Rigby Conservatory of the Arts. Set to the 1920’s romantic musical “Moulin Rouge,” the four-part custom theatrical performance portrayed the message that every individual is ‘priceless.’
An estimated $118,000 in net proceeds will support the programs and services of OCFJC Foundation that serves survivors of family violence, child abuse, domestic violence, elder abuse and sexual assault.
Held at the City National Grove of Anaheim, nearly 300 attendees dressed in 1920’s attire enjoyed a stylish evening, beginning with an outdoor cocktail reception and silent auction. The “Moulin Rouge” theme continued inside as guests were greeted from the lobby’s catwalk by American television personality and country singer, Matt Rogers.
Inside the main theatre, OCFJC Foundation President Susan Bruegman welcomed attendees. Orange County Supervisor and Former California State Assembly Member Todd Spitzer addressed the group and spoke passionately about the critical services of the OC Family Justice Center and their work to break the cycle of violence in the community.
City of Anaheim Deputy Chief Julian Harvey and Chief Raul Quezada assisted in presenting the Foundation’s Partner of the Year Award to Bette and Wylie Aitken. OCFJC Foundation Board of Trustee Gianna Solari Richards received the John Welter Community Partnership Award directly from retired Anaheim Police Chief John Welter who was instrumental in forming the organization over 10 years ago.
Cathy Rigby was joined on stage with husband Tom McCoy as she shared her own difficult childhood and the compassion that went into producing “Priceless.”
The culmination of the evening was revealed in the dramatic production featuring over 20 performers from the McCoy Rigby Conservatory of the Arts. Messages of abuse, love, trust and freedom were portrayed through dance, music and theatre. Solo artists included actress and singer Brooke Besikof, singer Michelle London and dancer Derek Nemechek.
The executive producer of the event and “Priceless” performance was Kristin Epperson of Charity Matterz, LLC.