News & Publications
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MEDIA RECOGNITION
The Indispensables 2026
The Business Journal always recognizes founders, entrepreneurs, and C-Suites, but we thought it would be wonderful to recognize a group whose contributions too often go unacknowledged: The Indispensables.
Girls Inc. of OC’s 2026 Sneaker Ball Raises $400,000 to Support the Next Generation of Women Leaders
Girls Inc. of Orange County, the Santa Ana-based affiliate of the national nonprofit dedicated to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, proudly announces the success of its annual Sneaker Ball gala, Ready or Not, Here They Come. Held at Fête the Venue in Costa Mesa on Saturday, May 2, the event brought together nearly 300 community leaders, corporate partners, philanthropists, and advocates to raise $400,000 in support of Girls Inc. of Orange County’s workforce development and college readiness programs.
OC50 2026: LUCY SANTANA-ORNELAS
Since she became CEO in 2002, the organization has grown from helping 1,500 girls to 11,200 in 2025. Generated $4.4M in revenue for 2025.
Girls Inc. campers get in the tank with ‘sharks’ at business showcase event
Girls Inc. of Orange County campers fearlessly jumped right into a “Shark Tank” Thursday at Santa Ana College.
Compassion in Action
In a city where influence meets impact, these leading philanthropies exemplify the art of giving with purpose, grace, and enduring vision. Here we present the 2025 Modern Luxury Philanthropy Awards to the leading organizations shaping a brighter future for Orange County and beyond.
LA Times Business Visionaries Inspirational Women
As chief executive officer of Girls Inc. of Orange County (GIOC), Lucy Santana has been a transformative force for youth empowerment for over 25 years.
LA Times OC Executive
Hear accomplished leaders share candid perspectives on the decisions, challenges and opportunities affecting business across Orange County. With dedicated time to connect, attendees will also have the opportunity to meet peers, potential partners and key decision-makers from across Orange County.
Women in Business Awards 2025
The Women in Business Awards remain one of Orange County’s most celebrated traditions, highlighting the leaders shaping our business landscape today, and inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
SUCCESS STORIES
Girls Inc. Chapters Helps Set Girls Up for Success | Chapman News
Girls Inc. Chapters across the nation sponsor various events all aimed at setting girls up to be successful adults
OC Grantmakers Summit 2025
Girls Inc. of Orange County is proud to be part of the OC Grantmakers Summit, where nonprofit and philanthropic leaders come together to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and celebrate those creating lasting impact throughout our community.
Philanthropy in Orange County: Girl’s Inc., Make-A-Wish Orange County, Childhelp Orange County Chapter
Girls Inc. of Orange County held its annual gala, Celebrating the Girls Inc. Experience, on April 26 at Fête the Venue in Costa Mesa. The celebration brought together community leaders, partners and supporters to raise more than $400,000 in support of Girls Inc.’s research-based programs in STEM, financial literacy, college and career readiness, healthy relationships, body image and advocacy.
FVHS STUDENTS WIN BUSINESS COMPETITION
The girls began their journey in entrepreneurship at Girls Inc. “Being part of this experience gave us so much,” Karalyn said. “We’re excited to keep learning, keep growing — and maybe even help the next generation of girl entrepreneurs do the same.”
NEWSLETTER
Girls Lead the Way at the Inaugural Girls Leading Change Summit
This July, Girls Inc. of Orange County proudly joined more than 250 girls representing over 30 Girls Inc. Affiliates from across the United States and Canada at the inaugural Girls Leading Change Summit in St. Louis, Missouri.
