A gala is not the work of Scouting. The work happens throughout the year—in unit meetings, at camp, on the water, along trails and wherever Scouts serve their communities.
But a gala gives us an important opportunity to explain that work.
Many people across Orange County recognize the Scouting uniform without fully understanding what happens behind it. They may not see the volunteer training, outdoor facilities, program planning and financial support required to provide consistent experiences for young people.
The We Change Lives Gala brings that larger story into one room.
It Shows the Community Who We Are
Every organization tells the public something about itself through the events it chooses to hold.
Our Gala says that Scouting America Orange County Council is an active part of the Orange County community. It gives business leaders, supporters, volunteers and Scouting families a place to meet—and a clearer view of what they are supporting.
That matters because Scouting cannot grow if our story remains inside our own meetings. People outside the movement need to see what Scouts are doing, why it matters and where they can help.
The Gala creates that introduction.
It Connects Scouting With New Supporters
Some Gala guests will already know Scouting well. Others may be encountering our work for the first time.
That mix is valuable. Longtime Scouters can provide history and firsthand experience. Community members can bring new ideas, relationships and perspectives.
An evening together can begin conversations that would not happen at a unit meeting or council office. Those conversations can lead to new volunteers, donors, advocates and community connections.
Not every guest will become deeply involved. But every guest can leave with a more complete understanding of Scouting in Orange County.
It Helps Fund the Work People Do Not Always See
Providing Scouting experiences requires more than enthusiasm.
Programs need places to meet, trained adults, equipment, maintained properties and staff support. Families also need clear information and accessible ways to participate.
Fundraising helps support that structure. It gives Scouting America Orange County Council more capacity to serve current families while reaching young people who have not yet had the opportunity to join.
The Gala is one part of that work. It does not replace unit fundraising, volunteer service or other community support. It brings those efforts together around a council-wide purpose.
It Gives Us a Chance to Report Back
Supporters should understand where their time and resources are going.
A Gala creates space to share the experiences their support makes possible. It can show how Scouting operates locally and connect financial support with real programs serving Orange County youth.
That visibility is important. People are more likely to remain connected when they understand the work, know why it matters and can see where they fit.
It Helps Keep the Movement Moving
Scouting has a long history, but history alone does not guarantee its future.
Keeping the movement strong requires us to introduce it to new families, develop new supporters and make sure our programs can meet the needs of young people today.
The We Change Lives Gala helps fuel that growth. It brings people together around what Scouting stands for: leadership, service, character and meaningful experiences for young people.
For those of us who already care deeply about Scouting, the evening is also a chance to share that commitment beyond our usual circles.
The 2026 We Change Lives Gala will take place Saturday, November 14, from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m. at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim.
Join us for an evening that celebrates the movement we love—and helps prepare it for what comes next.
