What an unforgettable evening! Friendly Center’s 2026 Havana Nights Gala was a sold-out celebration filled with incredible generosity, community, and purpose. Thanks to our amazing attendees, donors, sponsors, and supporters, the evening raised vital funds to support Friendly Center’s programs and services for families across our community.

The night was filled with fine dining, wine, music, mingling, silent and live auctions, and an exciting paddle raise, but everything came back to one purpose: serving our community through Friendly Center’s three pillars and values.

Special Highlights

• Friendly Center CEO Dr. Kenia Cueto, PhD, was honored with special recognition from OC Superintendent Doug Chaffee and Orange Mayor Dan Slater for her leadership and commitment to our community.
• We proudly announced Jessica Trementozzi as Friendly Center’s Interim President and Executive Director, marking an exciting new chapter for our organization.
• The evening also included the presence of dignitaries such as U.S. Congressman Lou Correa and members of the Office of Orange County District 2 Superintendent Vicente Sarmiento.

To everyone who made Havana Nights possible: THANK YOU! Your generosity, partnership, and belief in Friendly Center help create greater stability, opportunity, and hope for the families we serve.

Relive the Evening

Want to see some of the special moments from Havana Nights? Photos from the evening are now available through the South County Photo Club. We extend our sincere thanks to the South County Photo Club and Tracy Getman for capturing and sharing these wonderful memories with our community.

A sold-out night. A shared purpose. A stronger community. Thank you for making Havana Nights 2026 one to remember!