The Long Beach Area Council, Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America) has announced that its 2nd annual KAW High Tea Gala will take place on Sunday, November 8, 2026, at the Lakewood Country Club, located at 3101 E Carson St, Lakewood, CA 90712. The event, scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., brings together community members, women business leaders, and Scouting supporters to honor a distinguished group of honorees whose contributions have made a lasting impact on the Long Beach area.
This year's gala will recognize an exceptional class of honorees: Tina Hansen, Council Member for the City of Signal Hill; Marla Jo Fisher, Senior Writer Columnist; Linda Dilday; Caryn Desai, Artistic Director/Producer; Julissa Jose-Murray, Chief of Business Operations for the Long Beach Police Department; Dr. Terry Mendoza, Educator; Dr. Sara Pol-Lim, Educator; Susan Price, Sr. Assistant District Attorney; and Barbara Shoag, Community Volunteer/Educator. Each honoree represents a cross-section of leadership in education, public service, media, and the arts, underscoring the council's commitment to recognizing those who strengthen the community.
Proceeds from the KAW High Tea Gala directly support Scouting programs throughout the Long Beach area, including youth leadership development, outdoor education, and scholarships for underserved youth. These programs are designed to provide young people ages 5 to 20 with opportunities to build character, learn practical skills, and engage in community service. By funding scholarships, the council helps ensure that financial barriers do not prevent participation, extending the benefits of Scouting to a broader group of families.
The Long Beach Area Council is the local chapter of Scouting America, serving families in Long Beach, Lakewood, Bellflower, Signal Hill, and Avalon on Catalina Island since 1919. Through neighborhood Cub Scout packs, Scouts BSA troops, Sea Scout ships, Venturing crews, and Exploring posts organized in three districts—Iron Star, New Frontier, and Neptune—the council brings outdoor adventure, leadership, and community service to youth across its cities. The gala serves as a key fundraiser for these ongoing efforts.
Tickets and sponsorships for the event are available at www.longbeachbsa.org/kaw. The event is supported by sponsors including Coastline Environmental Solutions and A1 Best Plumbing, whose backing helps underwrite the gala and maximize the funds directed toward youth programs.
The gala's impact extends beyond a single morning of recognition. Funds raised will support leadership development and outdoor education initiatives that prepare young people for future roles in their communities and workplaces. For the Long Beach area, the event highlights the role of local businesses and community leaders in sustaining youth-serving organizations. As the council continues its second century of service, the KAW High Tea Gala represents a tangible way for supporters to invest in the next generation of leaders.
