The La Jolla-based women’s philanthropy group Las Patronas shattered records with this year’s Jewel Ball — raising $1,403,213 for local non-profit organizations.

The group’s 80th Jewel Ball, themed Festa di Venezia, was held Aug. 8 at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club and generated the most money raised in a single year in the organization’s history. Led by Jewel Ball Chair Jenny McGowan, and co-chairs Laurel Hanson and Sara Carpenter, the evening was inspired by Venice, Italy, “from vibrant florals and candlelit ambiance to a thoughtfully curated culinary experience and music inspired by Vivaldi,” according to Las Patronas.

“The dedication of our Las Patronas members and the enthusiastic support of our community have resulted in record financial results,” said 2026 Jewel Ball chair Jenny McGowan. “I can’t wait to see these funds donated to those that need it most here in San Diego County. This is the essence of Las Patronas — touching countless lives now for 80-plus years and making San Diego a better place for everyone.”

Las Patronas has granted more than $28 million to about 1,000 nonprofits since its founding in 1946.

This year’s major beneficiaries will include the Alpha Project for homeless services, Canine Companions, Meals on Wheels San Diego County, National Marine Mammal Foundation, Promises2Kids, Sanford Burnham Prebys and Workshops for Warriors.

The 81st annual Jewel Ball will be held Aug. 7. Themed “Okavango,” the event will be led by Jewel Ball chair Lisa Bresnahan and co-chairs Stephanie Stone and Lesley Kroupa.

“The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Botswana, is a massive wetland oasis that is one of the most ecologically important landscapes on the planet,” according to Las Patronas. “Each year with the cycle of the seasons, rains from the Angolan highlands flow into a vast, arid landscape, transforming the Kalahari Desert into a lush network of channels and lagoons. This vibrant habitat supports large populations of elephant, zebra, antelope, and other herbivores, which in turn attract iconic predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, making the Okavango one of Africa’s most spectacular ecological treasures.”

Learn more: laspatronas.org.