Catherine Pan, Elsa Fu
Check Presentation
Danetta Lew, Steve Allen, Natalie Lucero
Emily Theil, Alexandra Wu, Tina Chiou
Grant Law, Peter Leung
Jennie Chang, Peter Leung, Vincent Hon
Laura Law, Tina Chiou, Priscila Stanton, Sheela Gade, Grant Law
Lindsey Lansburgh, Amelia Swabb
Natalie Lucero, Danette Lew
Priscila Stanton, Vanessa Wolf Alexander, Stefani Freeburg
Steve Allen, Peony Cai
More than 40 supporters gathered at The Valley Hunt Club as the Friends of Foothill Family launched their 2025–2026 year with an inspiring kickoff brunch, celebrating a summer of generosity that raised $43,000 through the Kindness Campaign and marking the start of Foothill Family’s centennial countdown.
The event spotlighted the Friends’ philanthropic impact and previewed their role in advancing Foothill Family’s mission ahead of its 100th anniversary in 2026. A special check presentation was made to the agency’s Pathways to Professions program, accepted by Danette Lew, Director of 0–5 Programs, and Natalie Lucero, Program Supervisor. Both emphasized the importance of Friends’ support in expanding early childhood education and career pathways.
“The Friends of Foothill Family are the philanthropic heartbeat of our agency,” said Steve Allen, Chief Executive Officer of Foothill Family. “Their energy, creativity, and generosity fuel so much of what we’re able to accomplish. From fundraising to raising awareness, they are ambassadors, advocates, and changemakers, and we are deeply grateful for the role they play in building stronger futures for children and families.”
Friends President Stefani Freeburg reflected on a year of meaningful accomplishments, including $12,000 raised through intimate buy-in parties, holiday outreach through the Making Seasons Brighter initiative, rapid support for families affected by the Eaton Canyon Fire, and storytelling efforts that elevated Foothill Family’s mission across the community. She thanked Community Outreach Co-Chairs Grant Law and Catherine Pan for leading the successful Kindness Campaign, which set the tone for the year ahead.
Friends Vice President Peter Leung energized the group with a call to grow membership to 100 and invited members to help shape the vision for a future Jr. Friends program, engaging the next generation in service and leadership.
Director of Development Lindsey Lansburgh closed the program by thanking the Friends’ Board and volunteers for their leadership and for bringing Foothill Family’s mission to life.
As Foothill Family prepares for its Centennial year, the Friends will continue to play a vital role in advancing the agency’s work across the San Gabriel Valley and Greater Los Angeles.
For more information, call (626) 993-3000 or visit www.foothillfamily.org.
