Kimberly Hunt and Carol LeBeau.

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With Jay Leno as the star attraction, San Diego’s Century Club hit a hole in one for the Monarch School at its annual Diamond in the Rough Gala. The sold-out event was held at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines.

Who Came?: Among the hundreds who attended were Padres pitcher Chris Young with his wife Liz. Chris donated a half-hour lesson in pitching for the live auction. They mingled with PETCO Park boss Richard Andersen and his wife Susan. County Schools Superintendent Dr. Randy Ward and his wife Dr. Cheryl Ward joined the celebration, along with Bruno and Giselle Haineault – he’s director of engineering at Presenting Sponsor Datron. 10 News anchor Kimberly Hunt was on hand to accompany her husband and gala emcee Billy Ray Smith. They were joined by good friends Carol LeBeau and Tom Hamilton.

Susan DeVincent, Michele and Craig Killman.

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The Cause: The Monarch School provides homeless youth a refuge from life’s daily struggles, as well as accommodations ranging from health and dental care to food and clothing. More importantly, Monarch offers these children hope for a better future through education. Today, more than 160 kids, ages 4–19, are enrolled at Monarch School.

The Good Hearted: With guidance from Century Club, President Thomas V. Wornham and Gala Chairperson Barbara B. Savaglio, Century Club members pooled their passion, connections and resources to create a successful night made possible by presenting sponsor, Datron. Providing invaluable support were Mr. and Mrs. John Belanich, the John Sachs Family, and sponsors Bridgepoint Education, Barona Creek Golf Club, The Jack in the Box Foundation, Cubic Corporation, Innovative Employee Solutions, American Airlines, AeroMexico, and Opolo Vineyards.

Chris and Liz Young, Susan and Richard

Andersen.

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The Creative: The event unfolded seamlessly thanks to skillful planning provided by Fete Accompli and AllStar Group Production's creative flair. Alan Welder Design's vibrant floral arrangements captured the magic of the celebration.

Get Involved: Monarch School welcomes committed volunteers in the areas of tutoring, administrative support, special events, committee work, and after-school support. If you are interested in helping, a Monarch Orientation is your first step. Please contact Tara Barrows at tbarrows@monarchschool.org for upcoming dates of these monthly, hour-long presentations.

Your school or non-profit organization can earn money through the Century Club’s “Chip in for Charity” or “Save our Schools” programs, offering discount tickets to the San Diego Open and sharing the proceeds of ticket sales with the charities or schools that sell them.