A group of Newport Beach residents has formed KidWorks Women (KWW), a women's auxiliary supporting KidWorks, the Santa Ana nonprofit that has served youth and families from four centers for more than 30 years.
Kyle Team, a Newport Beach resident and chair of the KidWorks Advisory Council, founded and chairs the new group. Its leadership committee includes Susan Graham, Melissa Marshall, Cathy Newton, Stephanie Peleuses, DeDe Soto, Camille Strader, Debbie Trammell, Kathy Ursini, Sue Willett, Anne Yardley, and Amanda Zimmerman. Lisa Gels, KidWorks' director of philanthropy and a Newport Beach resident, serves as staff advisor.
KWW members assemble care packages for KidWorks college students, organize carnivals for younger kids, and host two annual social fundraisers: "Pickleball for a Purpose" each spring at the Tennis and Pickleball Club at Newport Beach Country Club, and "Rosé on the Bay" each fall at a private waterfront home overlooking Newport Harbor.
Debbie Trammell, who serves as KWW's liaison to the KidWorks board, said she feels "a responsibility to serve this population. Too many kids are falling through the cracks in our communities."
KidWorks programs span preschool through college, including after-school tutoring, mentoring, and family services, according to the organization's website. The nonprofit is headquartered at 1902 W. Chestnut Ave. in Santa Ana.
Residents interested in getting involved can visit kidworksoc.org or contact Lisa Gels at [email protected].
Upcoming KidWorks events in Newport Beach:
- Festival of Chefs — Thursday, July 23, 5–10 p.m. on the lawn at Newport Beach Country Club. Event committee includes Kyle Team, DeDe Soto, and Camille and Tim Strader Jr.
- Cars & Cocktails — Early November 2026 (date to be announced).
