10.7.25 - A Night of Joy, Connection & Impact: Curry Senior Center’s Carnival for a Cause

We had the privilege of attending Curry Senior Center’s Carnival for a Cause — a lively, uplifting benefit event bringing together supporters, community members, and friends of the Center.  As a proud sponsor, it was inspiring to see how the evening blended festivity, fundraising, and genuine heart.

Event basics & setting

The event took place Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Bimbo’s 365 Club in San Francisco’s North Beach.

Curry Senior Center described it as a “fun-filled evening” with features including a strolling magician, tarot card readings, and other carnival-style touches.  Guests also had access to a silent auction, with bidding open before and during the event.

To make things easier for attendees, Curry partnered with Waymo, which generously gave a 50% discount on rides to and from the Carnival.

Adding to the sparkle of the evening, The Grant Avenue Follies, took the stage — a troupe of retired dancers from San Francisco’s historic Chinatown nightclubs who have reinvented themselves as cultural ambassadors and community advocates. With sequins, energy, and undeniable charisma, these amazing women reminded everyone that artistry and joy have no expiration date. Their performance brought both nostalgia and celebration, tying the glamour of Chinatown’s past to the heart of Curry Senior Center’s mission today.

Atmosphere & highlights

The room felt warm and buzzing — laughter, conversation, the clink of cocktail glasses, people moving from one station to another, engaging with carnival games or auction displays.

“The energy in the room was electric,” said Shirley Quitugua, Curry Senior Center Board President and Vice President/Branch Manager at TASI Bank. “You could see community happening in real time — people connecting, laughing, and supporting a mission that matters deeply to San Francisco.”

The magician’s strolling act was a hit, the tarot reading area added a playful, mystical flavor, and the silent auction drew generous participation. But at its heart, the night was about Curry’s mission.

Impact & meaning

What makes Curry’s work so important is that this isn’t just another gala or fundraiser. Behind the scenes, Curry Senior Center is deeply embedded in San Francisco’s Tenderloin and surrounding communities — providing integrated health care, meals, housing support, case management, technology training, and more.

Dave Knego, Executive Director of Curry Senior Center, shared: “Events like Carnival for a Cause remind us that our work is only possible because of the community that stands with us. Every ticket purchased, every bid made, every smile exchanged fuels our ability to help older adults age with dignity, independence, and connection.”

Maureen Decost, Curry’s Development Director, added: “It was inspiring to watch new faces join longtime supporters in celebrating our mission. Nights like this expand our circle of friends — and every new supporter helps ensure Curry can continue meeting the growing needs of San Francisco’s seniors.”

Closing & call to action

To Curry Senior Center: thank you for hosting such a meaningful, joyful evening. To the guests and fellow sponsors: thank you for your support and energy.

If you’re reading this and want to learn more or get involved: check out Curry Senior Center’s website, Curry Senior Center to explore volunteer opportunities, consider donating, and watch for future events. Supporting organizations like Curry is one of the most tangible ways to invest in our social fabric.