05/29/2026
May issue Youth Writer Article features "Under the Big Top for a Good Cause
Senior Concerns ,"The Ultimate Dining Experience" By Levi Jefferson.
"This spring, I had the chance to attend one of the Conejo Valley’s most distinctive community events: the Ultimate Dining Experience, “The Greatest Gala,” hosted by Senior Concerns. The annual fundraiser brought together hundreds of community members for an evening of great food, entertainment, and a shared purpose: supporting local seniors and their caregivers.
Held at the Hyatt Regency Westlake, the event felt like stepping into a circus-themed celebration. Guests dressed in “Big Top Glam” enjoyed a wide sampling of food from local favorites, including Fogo de Chão, Go Fish Sushi, and The Stonehaus, among others, along with tastings from wineries and breweries. Nearby, guests browsed silent auction items while enjoying cotton candy and popcorn, adding to the festive atmosphere. The evening continued with a banquet dinner and a live auction. The energy in the room made it clear this wasn’t just a fundraiser, but a community coming together to support others.
Senior Concerns has been serving the Conejo Valley since 1975 and supports thousands of seniors and family caregivers each year through programs like Meals on Wheels, adult day services, caregiver support, and educational resources. The funds raised during the gala help sustain these programs and improve the quality of life for older adults in our community.
Walking through the event, it was also clear how many volunteers, sponsors, and community members were working behind the scenes. Events like this take an enormous amount of planning and support, and it was inspiring to see so many people willing to give their time and resources to help others."
"The Greatest Gala may have had a circus theme, but the real highlight of the evening was seeing a community come together to support seniors who deserve connection, care, and dignity."
Read the entire article in your May issue of Stroll.
To learn more about Senior Concerns, visit www.seniorconcerns.org