Circle of Friends, the philanthropy organization dedicated to supporting Kidspace Children’s Museum, was pleased to present a $385,000 check to the local museum as part of its annual benefit fundraiser. This year’s theme, “Bourbon St. Ball” took place on Saturday, February 7th, 2026 at the Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. Open to the public, this was an exquisite annual event that consisted of both silent and live auctions, raffles, dinner and dancing, all in support of Kidspace. Guests were encouraged to dress in costume, slip into the spirit of a speakeasy soirée, and let the good times roll.
The donation was presented at the Circle of Friends Annual Brunch meeting hosted at the Valley Hunt Club in Pasadena, CA. During the program, guests heard from Tricia Fink, the Chair of the Kidspace Board of Directors, Lisa Clements, the Chief Executive Officer of Kidspace, Jessica Cavic, the former President of Circle of Friends during the 2025-2026 year, and the incoming President of Circle of Friends for the 2026-2027 year, Alesha Dy.
“We’re honored to bring this special evening to life in support of Kidspace Children’s Museum,” said Circle of Friends Board President Alesha Dy. “Our annual Benefit has become one of Pasadena’s most anticipated events, but at its core, it’s about something bigger, expanding access so more children and families can experience the kind of joyful, hands-on, kid-driven learning that Kidspace is known for.”
For 34 years, Circle of Friends has been a driving force of support. In the past six years alone, members have raised approximately $2.4 million to expand access and deepen impact at Kidspace.
Those funds directly support Kidspace’s access programs, ensuring children and families in need can experience the museum. Through partnerships with organizations including Hillsides Bienvenidos, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Foster Love, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Angel City Sports, and the International Rescue Committee, Kidspace delivers meaningful outreach experiences. And when these moments happen, Circle members are there, volunteering their time and talents to help bring it all to life.
In the last year, Kidspace has welcomed over 400,000 guests, provided 40,000 free or reduced-price admissions for students, military, and families dealing with unemployment, and delighted 30,000 more at free community art and play workshops.
Circle of Friends’ purpose is strictly charitable and consists of approximately 108 women from Pasadena, Altadena, San Marino, La Cañada Flintridge, South Pasadena and the surrounding communities. New potential members are invited to attend an informational meeting on June 11th.
