The Ferrari Kid Gala: A Night of Courage and Celebration
By Jules Aldaz
The Ferrari Kids-mobile sits on display
The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort transformed one of their ballrooms into a beautiful setting that illustrated elegance and purpose for the The Ferrari Kid gala. Guests arrived dressed in beautiful gowns and suits representing the theme of “24-Carat Gold,” combining philanthropy, inspiration, and awareness. The warm glow of the exquisite ballroom impressed with candlelit tables, candelabras, and thoughtful details that distinctly set the tone for a night of unforgettable memories.
The Ferrari Kid, a nonprofit founded by Manny Diotte, gives children battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses a chance to forget treatments and hospitals for a day. Each child becomes a “Ferrari Kid,” experiencing a VIP adventure that helps restore joy and confidence during the toughest fight of their lives. From the moment they’re picked up in a Ferrari, the excitement begins. Once they arrive at the destination of their choice, the kids receive red carpet treatment, paparazzi attention, and all things VIP. The experience is filled with lots of fun and laughter, but most importantly, love — not only for the children, but for their families as well. After their VIP day, they continue to receive support through the organization’s monthly group, The Hope Tank, which provides a non-judgmental space for children and their parents to come together once a month for fun activities, as well as room to open up and chat with one another.
The gala itself reflected that same spirit of love and generosity. Featuring both an online and live auction, guests bid passionately after hearing powerful motivational speeches. By the end of the evening, The Ferrari Kid reached a record-breaking milestone, raising more than half a million dollars. Sevi Chavez and Mia Castanon were honored with the Courage Award for their incredible strength and perseverance during this difficult time.
Manny also recognized longtime photographer Danny Malsach (@the_dude_with_the_camera_), who has captured the organization’s journey for more than ten years. Additional special honors included the Humanitarian Award, the Enzo Award, and the Champion for Children Award, presented to individuals whose contributions continue to change lives.
One of the most memorable moments of the night came during the auction, when a powerful painting by @fredcasilasstudio sold for more than $16,000. The artwork incorporated the Ferrari Kid’s own handwritten messages and drawings, transforming it into a deeply meaningful piece of art.
Manny gave a special thank you to the 50 volunteers who worked tirelessly to bring the event to life. He reserved a heartfelt thank you for his fiancée Rachel Porter, who headed up the volunteers responsible for creating the magical ballroom. In his closing remarks, Manny summed up the heart of the mission with one simple, powerful thought: “Cancer sucks, but their ride to the hospital doesn’t have to.” It was a monumental evening of love that proved when compassion takes the wheel, miracles can happen. ■
To make a donation that helps continue this life-changing mission, please visit theferrarikid.org
