Old Hollywood Glamour Meets Modern Philanthropy: How Immersive Storytelling Transformed Rally 4 Kids

Imagine the scene: vintage Cadillacs parked alongside modern Ferraris, women in feathered headpieces and men in tuxedos, all against the backdrop of the stunning Bella Vista Ranch polo field at sunset. But this wasn't a movie set—it was philanthropy reimagined through the lens of Old Hollywood glamour.

When United Boys & Girls Clubs approached us to elevate their annual Rally 4 Kids fundraiser, we knew this wasn't just about creating pretty centerpieces. This was about crafting an experience so compelling that checkbooks would open wider, hearts would connect deeper, and a record-breaking $450,000 would be raised in a single evening.

The Challenge: Fundraising Fatigue

Let's face it—Santa Barbara's philanthropic community attends dozens of galas each year. Another silent auction, another chicken dinner, another PowerPoint presentation showing impact statistics... even the most dedicated donors experience fundraising fatigue.

Our challenge: How do we transform a traditional fundraiser into an immersive experience that would not only sell out at 320 guests but create such demand that the event would need to relocate to accommodate 500+ attendees the following year?

The answer was hiding in plain sight—in the journey itself.

The Rally: From Pit Stop to Plot Point

The Rally 4 Kids isn't just a clever name—it's 68 exotic and classic cars driving 110 miles through Santa Barbara County's most stunning landscapes. Rather than treating this as merely pre-gala entertainment, we reimagined the entire rally as the first act of our immersive story.

Each pit stop—La Cumbre Peak, Sunstone Winery, Santa Barbara City College, and the Downtown Boys & Girls Club—became a chapter in our narrative. At each location, drivers didn't just participate in "challenges"—they experienced firsthand the types of activities that Club members engage in daily.

At the Downtown Club pit stop, for example, rally participants were paired with Club members who guided them through STEM activities similar to their after-school programs. This wasn't just about scoring points in a competition—it was about creating emotional connections between donors and the children they would be supporting.

"I've been to dozens of fundraisers," one first-time rally participant told me, "but I've never actually met the kids who benefit from my donation. Having Miguel show me his robotics project made everything real in a way that donation statistics never could."

The Transformation: Polo Field to Paramount Pictures

As the sun began to set, rally participants arrived at Bella Vista Ranch to find themselves transported to the golden age of Hollywood. Rather than traditional banquet decor, we created environmental storytelling through:

• A red carpet entrance complete with "paparazzi" photographers (whose photos would later be available for purchase as an additional fundraising opportunity)

• Vintage movie posters reimagined to feature Club members and their achievements

• Signature cocktails named after famous Hollywood films with a twist that highlighted Club programs

• Table centerpieces featuring gilded film reels interspersed with photos of Club members

• A custom Hollywood sign installation that served as both decor and photo opportunity

But the true immersion came through the program itself.

Breaking the Fourth Wall

Traditional galas separate entertainment from fundraising—first you enjoy performances, then you open your wallet. We intentionally broke this fourth wall by weaving Club members into every aspect of the evening:

• Rather than having servers pass appetizers, Club members (appropriately dressed for the theme) welcomed guests with trays of hors d'oeuvres, introducing themselves and sharing brief stories about their Club experiences

• Instead of a standard slideshow, we created a "live trailer" where Club members performed vignettes highlighting different programs, moving throughout the dinner space rather than remaining confined to a stage

• During dinner, each table had a "special guest"—a Club member who rotated between courses, ensuring every donor connected with multiple children

The most powerful moment came during the award presentation to philanthropists Donavan and Randie Judkins. Rather than having just the CEO present the Michael & Anne Towbes Award, three Club members whose scholarships had been directly funded by the Judkins joined him on stage, each sharing a personal story about how the Club had changed their trajectory.

When Randie Judkins urged the crowd to "dig deep, open your checkbooks, and support these kids," it wasn't an abstract request—it was personal. Guests weren't just supporting an organization; they were supporting Miguel, Sophia, and James, whose stories they'd just heard, whose hands they'd just shaken.

The Results: Beyond the Numbers

Yes, the event raised over $450,000—a record-breaking amount. Yes, it sold out with 320 attendees and created such demand that a larger venue was secured for the following year.

But the true measure of success came in the form of engagement that extended far beyond the event itself:

• Multiple rally participants later volunteered to mentor Club members in their professional fields

• Several companies represented at the gala initiated corporate partnership programs with the Clubs

• The wait list for the following year's rally began forming before the evening had even concluded

As Michael Baker, CEO of UBGC, reflected: "This wasn't just our most successful fundraiser financially—it fundamentally changed how our donor community relates to our organization. People left feeling like part of our family, not just supporters of our cause."

The Takeaway: Immersion Creates Investment

The success of the Old Hollywood Rally 4 Kids reinforces what we've always believed at Felici Events: people remember how you make them feel. By creating an immersive experience that engaged all five senses and created genuine emotional connections, we didn't just host a successful event—we transformed supporters into advocates.

When philanthropy feels like participation rather than observation, the impact extends far beyond a single evening or donation. It creates a community of support that sustains organizations like the United Boys & Girls Clubs through challenges like the pandemic, when, as Michael Baker noted, "If it weren't for the generosity of the Judkins, I'm not sure how we would've made it through Covid."

As we prepare for next year's even larger Rally 4 Kids, we're reminded that the most powerful fundraising tool isn't the auction item or the paddle raise—it's the story you tell and how you make your guests feel while telling it.

Ready to transform your organization's next fundraiser from an obligation into an immersive experience? Let's talk about how storytelling, environment, and emotional connection can help you not just meet but exceed your fundraising goals.

Ciao for now - Zohe! (photographed below)

2nd Annual ARISE 5K Chase Palm Soccer Field

Since the first 5K in December 2021 (originally for 2020, it was a Pandemic Postponement) was a huge success, the client, Mary Hudson hired Felici Events to Produce it’s second annual 5K Walk and Run.

Mary Hudson, Founder of ARISE International hosted the second annual Arise 5K run/walk on December 3, 2022, The event took place along the beach at the soccer field in Chase Park on Cabrillo Boulevard in Santa Barbara, California.

This event brought together participants from the community with music, food, and festivities following the race. Finishing medals were awarded to participants along with gift bags for the top 3 runners.

ARISE Women’s Conferences support women from domestic violence shelters and drug rehabilitation homes and help them arise from their past to a new life. This year’s 5K Walk and Run is a community friend-raiser and fundraiser for Santa Barbara Rescue Mission’s Bethel House Women’s Residential Treatment Program.

Felici Events produced and managed the logistics of the event, including registration, rentals, volunteers, decor, food, beverage, and entertainment.

Video of Arise 5K Walk / Run

1st Annual ARISE 5K Walk and Run at Leadbetter

The first annual 5K Walk and Run was a community friend-raiser and fund-raiser for Santa Barbara Rescue Mission’s Bethel House Women’s Residential Treatment Program. We accommodated 300 or so runners and walkers to help raise money and awareness for this organization’s mission.

Felici Events has built the website, created the marketing materials, digital media, and promotion, submitted free listings, and organized community efforts of sponsorship and word-of-mouth promotion with our partners and sponsors. Felici Events has also produced and managed the logistics of the event, including registration, rentals, volunteers, decor, food, beverage, and entertainment.

From Cars to Culture: How Immersive European Storytelling Transformed a Charity Fundraiser

When the United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County approached Felici Events to elevate their annual Rally 4 Kids fundraiser, we knew that simply arranging tables and chairs wouldn't create the transformative experience their cause deserved. With over 3,100 youth depending on UBGC's essential after-school programs, this fundraiser needed to be more than just an event—it needed to be an unforgettable journey that would open hearts, minds, and checkbooks.

Beyond Traditional Fundraising: The Immersive Experience Advantage

Traditional charity galas follow a predictable format: silent auction, dinner, speeches, paddle raise. But after producing hundreds of events since 2006, we've learned that immersion creates investment in ways that conventional approaches simply cannot match.

For the Rally 4 Kids "European Affair" theme, we didn't just decorate a venue—we created a multi-sensory European tour that began the moment guests arrived at the stunning Bella Vista Ranch in Summerland.

Grand Arrival: When Fashion Meets Function

The journey began with an entrance lined with the day's rally participants' luxury vehicles—Porsches, Ferraris, McLarens, Bentleys, and classic Alfa Romeos—creating an immediate sense of European automotive excellence.

But the true showstopper was our innovative red carpet entrance. Rather than a traditional straight walkway, we designed a winding red carpet that culminated in a stunning visual illusion: the carpet appeared to become the flowing dress of a live performer stationed at the entrance. This Instagram-worthy moment created immediate buzz and set the tone for an evening where nothing would be ordinary.

"I've attended dozens of galas in Santa Barbara, but I've never seen an entrance like this," remarked one longtime supporter. "Before I even reached the cocktail area, I knew this wouldn't be a typical fundraiser."

Cocktail Hour: Interactive Cultural Ambassadors

Instead of standard servers circulating with appetizers, we transformed the cocktail reception into a European street scene with character actors representing three distinct European cultures:

• Italian Gondolier: Complete with striped shirt, traditional hat, and authentic Italian accent, our gondolier didn't just serve Aperol Spritzes—he shared stories about Venice's famous canals and taught guests Italian phrases, creating micro-moments of cultural education.

• Dutch Girl: With traditional braids, wooden shoes, and carrying tulips, our Dutch representative offered guests traditional bitterballen and jenever tastings while sharing facts about the Netherlands' rich history of supporting children's education.

• British Bobby: Our authentic-looking British police officer maintained "order" with witty banter while serving gin cocktails and discussing the history of youth clubs in the UK (which actually inspired the Boys & Girls Clubs movement in America).

These interactive characters didn't just entertain—they subtly reinforced the global importance of youth development programs similar to what UBGC provides locally.

"The characters made learning about European culture fun, but they also cleverly tied everything back to the cause," noted one first-time attendee. "I found myself drawing parallels between youth programs in Europe and what the Boys & Girls Clubs do here."

Mini Rally Mayhem: Racing for a Cause

During cocktail hour, we orchestrated an unexpected burst of competitive energy with our signature Box Car Mini Rally. Four custom-designed miniature cars—each sponsored by a different donor team—raced head-to-head on a specially constructed track that commanded center stage in the reception area.

Guests gathered around, cocktails in hand, cheering for their favorites as these carefully crafted vehicles zoomed down the track. The playful competition drew crowds, sparked friendly rivalry, and cleverly reinforced the day's rally theme while creating a natural opportunity for additional fundraising. Teams placed last-minute "enhancement" bids to give their cars advantages—special wheels, weight reductions, or even subtle track advantages—with all proceeds benefiting UBGC programs.

"The mini rally absolutely electrified the cocktail hour," noted one longtime supporter. "It gave everyone something to talk about and created this wonderful shared experience before we even sat down for dinner."

Culinary Theatre: The Gastro Garage Experience

We partnered with The Gastro Garage, an immersive culinary performance group, to create an interactive food experience that complemented our European theme. As guests moved through the cocktail reception, they encountered chefs in mechanic-inspired attire wielding blowtorches to finish gourmet donut sliders before their eyes.

These weren't ordinary appetizers—they were theatrical performances that engaged all senses. The visual drama of flames caramelizing toppings, the sizzling sounds, the aromas wafting through the air, and finally, the explosion of flavors as guests bit into these savory creations. Each slider featured European-inspired flavor combinations that reinforced our theme.

To complement these show-stopping sliders, servers circulated with international soup shots—petite portions of European soups served in shot glasses that provided a perfect welcome taste. From Spanish gazpacho to French onion to Italian minestrone, these small bites told a culinary story of Europe's diverse food traditions.

"The Gastro Garage experience created immediate conversation starters," noted one board member. "I watched complete strangers bonding over the spectacle of these chefs torching food right in front of them. It broke down barriers in a way traditional passed appetizers never could."

Dining Drama: The "Singing Waiter" Experience

The theatrical immersion continued seamlessly into dinner with our signature "Singing Waiter" experience—a performance element that has since been requested at multiple high-profile events throughout Santa Barbara County.

The scenario began innocently enough: a seemingly disgruntled server "accidentally" dropped a tray of glasses, creating a commotion that drew all eyes. As the maitre d' rushed over to address the situation, the "drunken" waiter grabbed the microphone, interrupting emcees CJ Ward and Beth Farnsworth.

Just as guests began shifting uncomfortably in their seats, wondering if they were witnessing an actual disruption, the waiter broke into a powerful operatic performance of "O Sole Mio," revealing himself as a professionally trained opera singer.

Throughout dinner, the performance evolved into what guests later described as "dinner theater meets mob movie," with various servers revealing their musical talents in unexpected moments—from Italian arias to French chanson to Spanish flamenco-inspired pieces.

"The progression from 'Oh no, this is awkward' to 'Wow, this is amazing!' created an emotional journey that kept everyone engaged," explained Michael Baker, CEO of United Boys & Girls Clubs. "People weren't checking their phones or having side conversations—they were fully present, wondering what would happen next."

The Impact: Immersion Drives Investment

The results spoke for themselves:

• The event raised approximately $250,000 for UBGC's after-school programming

• Attendance increased from previous years to 320 guests

• Demand grew so significantly that subsequent events moved to larger venues to accommodate 500+ anticipated attendees

• Several first-time donors became major supporters, citing the immersive experience as what convinced them of the organization's creativity and resourcefulness

"What Felici Events created wasn't just entertaining—it was strategic," commented Tony Vallejo, UBGC Board Chair. "The immersive elements kept guests engaged throughout the evening, which meant they were fully present during our mission moments and fundraising appeals."

The Psychology Behind Immersive Fundraising

Our approach to the Rally 4 Kids leveraged several key psychological principles that fundraising research has consistently validated:

1. Transportational Engagement: When people are "transported" into a narrative experience, they demonstrate greater empathy and are more likely to take action that aligns with the story's values.

2. Peak-End Rule: People judge experiences largely based on how they felt at the most intense moments and at the end, rather than an average of the entire experience. Our strategic emotional high points created lasting impressions.

3. Reciprocity Principle: When guests receive an exceptional experience (rather than just a meal), they feel a natural desire to reciprocate with greater generosity.

4. Sensory Integration: Engaging multiple senses simultaneously creates stronger memory encoding and emotional connection, making donors more likely to support the cause in the future.

Creating Your Own Immersive Fundraising Experience

While every nonprofit has unique needs, our experience with the Rally 4 Kids offers valuable lessons for any organization looking to elevate their fundraising efforts:

1. Begin the experience at arrival: Your event starts the moment guests approach the venue, not when they sit down for dinner.

2. Create unexpected moments: Strategic surprises reset attention spans and create memorable highlights.

3. Integrate mission with entertainment: Every entertaining element should ultimately connect back to your cause.

4. Engage all five senses: Consider not just what guests will see and hear, but what they'll taste, smell, and touch throughout the experience.

5. Build emotional progression: Map out an intentional emotional journey that culminates at your giving moment.

The Future of Fundraising Is Immersive

As philanthropy continues to evolve, donors increasingly expect more than a tax deduction in exchange for their support—they want meaningful experiences that connect them to causes in authentic ways.

For the United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County, the "European Affair" wasn't just a successful fundraiser; it established a new standard for how the organization engages with supporters. The immersive approach has since become a signature element of their fundraising strategy, helping them expand programming to new locations in Buellton, Solvang, and beyond.

"What makes Felici Events different is their understanding that fundraising isn't just about asking for money—it's about creating an environment where giving feels like a natural extension of an extraordinary experience," reflected Michael Baker. "They transformed our event from a traditional gala into a journey our supporters didn't want to end."

As we continue to develop innovative approaches to fundraising events, one thing remains clear: in a world of constant digital distraction, immersive in-person experiences have unparalleled power to connect people to causes in ways that inspire genuine, sustainable support.

Whether you're planning a major gala, an intimate donor cultivation event, or something in between, the principles of immersive storytelling can help your organization not just raise funds, but build a community of passionate advocates who will support your mission for years to come.

Looking to transform your next fundraising event from ordinary to extraordinary? Contact Felici Events to discuss how immersive experiences can help your organization exceed your fundraising goals while creating unforgettable memories for your supporters.

Felici Events Featured in CASA Magazine

Article from CASA Magazine

Felici Events Makes News for Planning Santa Barbara's Largest Philanthropic Event

Special thanks to CASA magazine for their article, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” published in August 2009. The article, written by Jacqueline Dyson, provides a detailed description of the event and includes information about Michael Towbes. This birthday celebration also served as a benefit for the Granada Restoration Capital Campaign and raised approximately $1.2M.

As the evening drew to a close, the party was just getting started! Dancing under the stars to Lois Mahalia & The Georgetown Band, exuberant guests rocked the house. Michael enjoyed dancing to his favorite song ‘YMCA’ with wife Anne, granddaughter Allison, and the family. Michael and Anne savored a special moment with the favorite, At Last, and shut is down with a rousing last dance Don’t Stop ‘Till You Get Enough. When all was said and diner, the party’s theme summed it up well: “It’s a Wonderful Life!” – CASA Magazine

Casa Magazine celebrates life in Santa Barbara. This award-winning weekly magazine focuses on cultural institutions and non-profits that support basic human rights and stewardship of the earth. Jacqueline Dyson has written other articles on local fundraising events, including:

• La Fiesta del Museo
• A Night at the Opera Santa Barbara

Felici Events is a first-class event design and production company based in Santa Barbara, California that produces events like this 80th birthday celebration. Contact us if you are planning an upcoming birthday celebration and looking for a company that listens to and expertly translates its clients’ visions into reality.

Event Planner’s "Good Fortune" makes local news


We have the best clients ever! Thank you cards never go out of style.

Thank you to society writer Lorraine D. Wilson for the article, “Good Fortune” rich in history. Lorraine’s article was published in her Sunday On the Town section in the Santa Barbara News Press, which covers the non-profit sector and who’s who of Santa Barbara.

Thank you to Kerry Methner for the article, Good Fortune Fundraiser Celebrates Santa Barbara's Asian American Heritage. Kerry's article was published on page 34 in the June 27th issue of CASA Magazine.

The “Good Fortune” fundraiser, by the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation, recognized the important role Chinese and Japanese communities played in Santa Barbara’s history.

During the late-nineteenth and twentieth-centuries the area in and around the Santa Barbara Presidio was a unique and culturally rich neighborhood. Chinese and Japanese communities coexisted side by side, offering thriving businesses within buildings that are now historic landmarks. The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation honors and preserves this history in El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park. In 2009 “Sharing Our Common Ground” explored Santa Barbara’s Asian Americans history. - Santa Barbara Independent

To see photos by Clint Weisman and Dr. Paul Mori, click the link and view the album, “Good Fortune” from the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation’s Flickr account.

Felici Events is a first-class event design and production company based in Santa Barbara, California that produces events like the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation’s “Good Fortune” gala. Contact us if you are planning an upcoming fundraising event and looking for a company that listens to and expertly translates its client’s visions into reality.

The Diana Basehart Foundation - for the love of animals

A Real Felici Events Fundraising Afternoon

If you know one thing about Zohe, it is her passion and advocacy for animals.

Felici Events was honored to be part of a committed and wonderful group of ladies, as we produced their second annual fundraising event.  Here is a sneak peek at this gorgeous afternoon full of animal lovers, video by by Brian Peddicord.

 Event Co-Chairs David Krieger and Tipper Gore, pictured with Diana Basehart,

little Nell and Salud Carbajal (Photo by Valori Fussell)

The Diana Basehart Foundation helps elders and those on limited incomes care for and keep their beloved companion animals by providing support for veterinary behavioral and nutritional needs; while also minimizing the number of animals being turned over to shelters.  CLICK ON THIS LINK to view more pictures of the event, as well as finding out more about the organization and how you can help.