This philanthropic couple has been an important force throughout the SCV and beyond its borders since the Michael Hoefflin Foundation was established in 1995. Inspired and named for their son, Chris and Sue honor his positive outlook on life and strong spirit while battling cancer before he passed away at the age of 10.

Michael’s concern for others, even while he fought his own fight with the disease, is the spirit behind the organization, which offers support to families of children afflicted with pediatric cancer. Both financial and emotional support goes to the families through counseling, tutoring, family entertainment activities, grocery and gasoline assistance and monthly support groups.

Its goal is three fold: finding better treatments and cures through medical research; promoting awareness of childhood cancer; and assisting local children and their families through outreach programs. The Michael Hoefflin Foundation strives to provide Hope, Help, and Healing™ to families struggling with the cancer of a child.

Activities for the families include bowling and pizza parties, a night at Mountasia Family Fun Center, a Halloween party at Lombardi Ranch, pool parties, and various sports and entertainment events.

Fundraisers for the Foundation include Jethawks minor league baseball benefit games, professional soccer matches, “Pour for the Cause” wine tastings, and the organization’s largest annual event, the “Evening Under the Stars.” This year’s Evening Under the Stars Gala is September 12 beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the Mann Biomedical Park in Valencia. In addition to the usual fine food, musical entertainment and auctions in an elegant atmosphere, this year’s gala promises some additional features. The Hoefflin Foundation will roll out the red carpet, providing table service for all guests this year, with fine catered food, and a concert by The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Tickets can be purchased by calling (661) 250-4100 or by visiting www.mhf.org.