Determined Newport Beach Women Put Their Faith Into Action to Help KidWorks Change Lives
By Jodi Salerno
While central Santa Ana and coastal Newport Beach are only a short drive apart, the distance between the two communities—when measured in opportunity, resources, and privilege—can feel far greater.
Yet at the heart of both communities are families who share the same hopes: that their children will grow into confident young leaders with bright futures, no matter their zip code.
That shared belief is what has inspired a group of philanthropic Newport Beach women to step forward in support of KidWorks, a Santa Ana–based nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth and strengthening families through education, leadership development and community programs.
Founded more than 30 years ago, KidWorks has become a powerful force in central Santa Ana, serving children and families through a wide range of programs designed to nurture both academic success and personal growth.
For a group of Newport Beach women, the organization’s mission struck a deep chord. Together they formed KidWorks Women (KWW), a women’s auxiliary committed to supporting the nonprofit’s mission while building community through what they describe as three guiding principles: fun, faith and philanthropy.
Leading the group is Newport Beach resident Kyle Team, Founder and Chair, along with fellow leadership committee members Susan Graham, Melissa Marshall, Cathy Newton, Stephanie Peleuses, DeDe Soto, Camille Strader, Debbie Trammell, Kathy Ursini, Sue Willett, Anne Yardley and Amanda Zimmerman.
Supporting their efforts is KidWorks Director of Philanthropy Lisa Gels, also a Newport Beach resident, who serves as the group's staff advisor. Collectively, these women are committed to ensuring KidWorks continues to serve as a beacon of hope for families in Santa Ana.
Their work blends hands-on service with meaningful connection. Through the group’s philanthropy efforts, members assemble care packages for KidWorks college students, organize events such as carnivals for younger students, and support various initiatives that directly benefit families in the program.
Faith is another key component of their mission. Members help foster church partnerships, participate in prayer walks, and support KidWorks staff and families through prayer and encouragement.
And then there’s the fun.
KidWorks Women also organizes two signature social events each year that bring the community together while raising awareness and support for the organization.
In the spring, the group hosts Pickleball for a Purpose at the Tennis and Pickleball Club at Newport Beach Country Club—an energetic day on the courts that blends friendly competition with philanthropy.
In the fall, Rosé on the Bay takes place at a private waterfront home overlooking Newport Harbor. Guests enjoy an evening of wine, appetizers, live music and inspiring stories from KidWorks students whose lives have been impacted by the organization’s programs.
But behind the social gatherings lies a powerful purpose.
Each year, KidWorks supports hundreds of children and families through programs that begin in preschool and extend through high school, college and beyond. The nonprofit operates a fully licensed preschool, after-school programs, tutoring, mentoring and family services focused on health, parenting support and community connection.
The results are remarkable. For nearly a decade, 100 percent of KidWorks high school students have graduated on time and continued on to higher education.
“For more than 30 years, KidWorks has provided academic support and leadership development programs that empower students on their journey from pre-kindergarten through their college years,” said Team, who also serves as Chair of the KidWorks Advisory Council. “The organization represents a unique blend of holistic development, faith and expanded opportunity for kids.”
For leadership member Kathy Ursini, the mission resonates on a personal level.
“I’m honored to be part of a group that supports the entire family to ensure student success,” she said. “KidWorks is helping create self-reliant young adults who are equipped for life and career—and who will ultimately give back to their communities.”
Newport Beach resident Debbie Trammell, who serves as the group’s liaison to the KidWorks board, shares that passion.
“I have a heart for under-resourced children and feel a responsibility to serve this population,” she said. “Too many kids are falling through the cracks in our communities.”
KidWorks Executive Director David Benavides says the support from Newport Beach volunteers has been invaluable.
“We are grateful for these women and their belief in our mission to unleash youth potential—one life at a time,” Benavides said. “Together with our supporters and volunteers, we are empowering young people to pursue college, meaningful careers, and lives of impact.”
Community members will have several opportunities to support the organization in the coming months, including the popular Festival of Chefs on July 23 at Newport Beach Country Club and the annual Cars & Cocktails: Funding a Foundation for Success event scheduled for early November.
For those interested in getting involved or learning more about upcoming opportunities, visit kidworksoc.org or contact Lisa Gels at lisa.gels@kidworksoc.org.
Because sometimes the most meaningful bridges are built not with roads—but with compassion, purpose, and a shared belief in the potential of every child.
Tudaloo on the Town!
Jodi Salerno
