The United Way of San Diego (UWSD) honored its Leadership Donors (generous folk who give $1,000-$9,999 yearly) with a festive evening at the offices of Hughes Marino, a showplace of architecture and interior design. The company, which represents tenants in commercial real estate dealings, is well known for its substantial involvement in charitable community causes. Shay and Jason Hughes co-sponsored the event with UWSD board chair Richard Ledford.

Ledford noted that, collectively, the Leadership Donors generate about $2 million annually, helping UWSD facilitate, promote and advocate for fiscal and humanitarian community goals. A display illustrated stories of four local people whose lives have been lifted because of UWSD’s work.

Guests enjoyed champagne and numerous tasty treats by Giuseppe Fine Catering. Attendees were encouraged to write the name of their favorite childhood book on their name badges, as a sort of conversation starter. Not everyone chose such classics as “Winnie the Pooh.” One picked “A Brief History of Time”; another “Fifty Shades of Grey” — both very adult subjects, but certainly conversation starters nonetheless.