Dream Foundation 15 Years of Making Dreams Come True

Written by JEANETTE CASILLAS | Reprint courtesy of Casa Magazine. Used with permission. | Wednesday, 18 November 2009

Thomas Rollerson and Priscilla Presley, Honoree

An amazing evening filled with dreams, stars, and fashion took place took place at this year’s 8th annual Celebration of Dreams hosted by the First Ladies of the Dream Foundation at the Bacara Resort & Spa last weekend.

The evening's event also marked the Dream Foundation's 15th Anniversary, granting over 8,800 dreams so far for adults facing life-threatening illnesses.

"We celebrate 15 years thanks to your commitment, compassion, and support," shared Holly Murphy, Event Co-Chair, as she welcomed an exuberant crowd of 600 guests. On stage with her was Event Co-Chair Tammy Hughes and Dream Foundation Founder Thomas Rollerson who thanked the board, volunteers, staff, supporters, and sponsors for making the event, primarily underwritten by the sponsors and entertainment is donated, possible.

Susan and Jeff Bridges with Dream recipient

Honorees Susand and Jeff Bridges with Dream recipient Carol Ann Lis and her mother Valerie Lis-Farrington

"Get ready for an emotional night of hights and lows," warned Rollerson. "We have an incredible lineup of amazing talent that is given from the heart.... And remember that the latest fashion is compassion, and you are all looking HOT!"

Among those in the crowd were some of the honorees of the night. Celebrated for their tireless commitment to the Dream Foundationwere Dream FoundationAmbassador Priscilla Presley, long-time local celebrity supporters Jeff and Susan Bridges, Clay Dickens, and the late Julie Main.

The night was full of surprises and memorable moments with performances by Acro-gymnastic duo 'Realis', 2009 American Idol Winner Kris Allen, Grammy-nominated singer Taylor Dayne, Michael McDonald, and Frenchie. Topping it off were the much anticipated designs by Carolina Herrera.

Models graced the long runway in the center of the room wearing designs from Herrera's 2010 Resort Collection, inspired by renowned modernist photographer and artist Man Ray.

Proceeds from the event will be used to continue making dreams come true and for the Dream Foundation's Flower Empower program, which distributes more than 100 donated bouquets to people with catastrophic illness every Saturday in the Santa Barbara area.