On September 24, Stepping Stone partnered with Dreamgirls Revue—San Diego’s longest-running drag show—for our first-ever fundraiser together. Thanks to the generosity of our community, the event raised nearly $12,000 to support Stepping Stone’s lifesaving addiction recovery, mental health, and housing programs.
Hosted by the incomparable Chad Michaels—legend, icon, and friend to Stepping Stone—the evening was filled with joy, laughter, and love. Guests enjoyed dazzling performances, over 30 auction and raffle prizes, and even a special highlight: Chad donated one of her original RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 3 costumes, which sold in a spirited bidding war for $3,000.
We are deeply grateful to our community partners who donated prizes, including Urban Mo’s, Baja Betty’s, Gossip Grill, HUMANITY!, insideOUT, Harley Gray, Anvill Gym, the San Diego Wave FC, and the San Diego Zoo.
At a time of heaviness in our world, this night was a reminder of the power of queer joy and community. For nearly 50 years, Stepping Stone has stood alongside LGBTQ+ people in their journeys of recovery and authenticity. Drag performers and transgender individuals embody that same spirit of liberation and resilience—and our community showed up to celebrate, support, and exceed all expectations.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for an unforgettable night. Your generosity ensures Stepping Stone can continue saving LGBTQ+ lives.
