Celebrating the resilience of the Casa Youth Shelter kids who pull themselves up by their bootstraps, the Bootstrap Ball will take place Saturday, May 10th at Old Ranch Country Club.
Inspired by the unwavering determination of the youth in crisis they serve, Casa Youth Shelter’s annual gala will honor the outstanding contributions of devoted philanthropist and board President Gary Howard as the Legacy Honoree for 2025. For more than two decades, Gary Howard has been a force of generosity and leadership at Casa Youth Shelter. Whether ensuring our pantry is stocked with steaks instead of just staples, donating countless hours of financial expertise, or leading our Board with unwavering dedication, Gary has always believed that young people in crisis deserve more than just the bare minimum—they deserve the very best.
As a trusted forensic accountant, a respected leader, and a man who always does what’s right, Gary has given not only his resources but his heart to making sure every young person at Casa Youth Shelter has the opportunity to succeed. Under his leadership as Board President, Casa Youth Shelter secured a $4 million grant to expand their services, ensuring they can support youth beyond their time at the shelter.
Through generous contributions encompassing time, talent and treasure, from donors and volunteers, Casa Youth Shelter has been able to serve youth in need for over 47 years. A destination for youth who have faced immense challenges including cycles of abuse, homelessness, and the heavy burden of trauma, Casa Youth Shelter provides a safe haven for youth where they can access tools, support, and guidance that help them pull themselves up, step by step, into the futures they deserve. The generosity of donors is vital to fueling their journey so that Casa Youth Shelter can give youth in crisis more than a fighting chance, but rather a future where they are equipped and inspired.
The Bootstrap Ball will raise much needed funding and awareness for programming and resources at Casa Youth Shelter. Join the Bootstap Ball festivities which will include an exquisite three course meal, silent and live auction, the Legacy Honoree presentation, plus a special guest speaker who is former recipient of Casa Youth Shelter support. Learn more + purchase tickets HERE.
“This year’s Bootstrap Ball is especially meaningful as we honor Gary Howard, a true champion of our mission. I am also humbled by the powerful story of our youth speaker, whose resilience will inspire us all. Together, we are creating sustainable change and brighter futures.” -Lupita Gutierrez, Interim Executive Director, Casa Youth Shelter