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J.J. Stokes

Sports

Drafting Dreams: The Medea Charitable Foundation Celebrity Draft & Dine Soars, Raising Over $100K for Children

by Serena Khahera December 1, 2023
written by Serena Khahera

Celebrity athletes, community leaders, and philanthropic enthusiasts gathered on the evening of November 20th at Mission Bay Wine & Cheese to celebrate the first annual Medea Charitable Foundation (MCF) Celebrity Draft & Dine. This unique event brought together sports icons, including NBA legends Shaquille O’Neal and Chris Mullin, MLB luminaries like Dusty Baker and Barry Bonds, NFL star J.J. Stokes, and renowned winemaker Dan Kosta, to be auctioned off for exclusive dining experiences—all in support of MCF’s mission to benefit children’s athletic, educational, social, and community activities.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA—NOVEMBER 20: The first annual MCF Celebrity Draft & Dine event is hosted by Medea Charitable Foundation at Mission Bay Wine & Cheese on November 20, 2023 (Photo by Panayiota Good/Medea Charitable Foundation)

The energetic atmosphere at the reception was filled with laughter and excitement as bids were placed on the celebrity athletes for one-of-a-kind dining experiences scheduled for the same evening. The successful auction raised over $100,000, a testament to the generosity and commitment of those in attendance.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA—NOVEMBER 20: The first annual MCF Celebrity Draft & Dine event is hosted by Medea Charitable Foundation at Mission Bay Wine & Cheese on November 20, 2023 (Photo by Panayiota Good/Medea Charitable Foundation)

Winning bidders were treated to unforgettable dining experiences at some of the Bay Area’s top restaurants, including Alexander’s Steakhouse, La Mar, Morton’s Steakhouse, One Market, Ozumo, and Waterbar. Additionally, a select group enjoyed an exclusive dining experience at Chase Center, complete with a breathtaking view overlooking the Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets game.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA—NOVEMBER 20: The first annual MCF Celebrity Draft & Dine event is hosted by Medea Charitable Foundation at Mission Bay Wine & Cheese on November 20, 2023 (Photo by Panayiota Good/Medea Charitable Foundation)

The over $100K that was raised during this spectacular evening will contribute to Medea Charitable Foundation’s ongoing efforts to support children’s athletic, educational, social, and community activities in the Bay Area and across the nation. Founded by Former MLB Player Randy Winn and Medea Inc. CEO Brandon Laidlaw, MCF is dedicated to helping children become more active in sports and programs, fostering community engagement and development.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA—NOVEMBER 20: The first annual MCF Celebrity Draft & Dine event is hosted by Medea Charitable Foundation at Mission Bay Wine & Cheese on November 20, 2023 (Photo by Panayiota Good/Medea Charitable Foundation)

Reflecting on the success of the first MCF Celebrity Draft & Dine, Randy Winn expressed gratitude and excitement, stating, “Although we knew it was a unique experience that people would enjoy, and that youth sports programming is as close to the hearts of our guests as it is to ours, we didn’t know what to expect. We are extremely thrilled and grateful for the funds raised to support a very special cause, and we’re looking forward to this being an annual event.”

SAN FRANCISCO, CA—NOVEMBER 20: The first annual MCF Celebrity Draft & Dine event is hosted by Medea Charitable Foundation at Mission Bay Wine & Cheese on November 20, 2023 (Photo by Panayiota Good/Medea Charitable Foundation)

The inaugural Medea Charitable Foundation Celebrity Draft & Dine not only brought together sports legends and philanthropists but also demonstrated the power of unity and generosity in making a lasting impact on the lives of children. As the event concluded, the spotlight shines on MCF’s commitment to fostering positive change, one memorable experience at a time.

Check out our interview with former MLB player and founder of Medea Charitable Foundation as well as our recap of the amazing night!

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