CHOC Let's Talk: Mental Health Luncheon 2026

CHOC Let's Talk: Mental Health Luncheon

The mental health and wellness challenges facing our children have been escalating for years-long before COVID-19-causing anxiety and uncertainty about their well-being and place in the world.

At Rady Children's Health Orange County, formerly CHOC, we are committed to using every available resource to care for patients today while equipping families to prevent potential crises tomorrow - powered by your generous compassion.

We warmly invite you to join us for the 2026 CHOC Let's Talk: Mental Health Luncheon, presented by Mrs. Cari and Mr. Chad Peets, on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the Westin South Coast Plaza Hotel. This annual event is more than a gathering: it's a movement. Together, we'll shine a light on the hardships our kids face and share proven solutions that lead to a healthier future for all.

What to expect at CHOC Let's Talk:

• Enjoy a welcoming reception and time to visit our Wellness Village-a dedicated space for mental health education, local resources, and children's wellness activities.

• Learn from trusted voices in the mental health community, and experience an inspiring conversation with artist, activist, and founder Misty Copeland and guest moderator Henry DiCarlo.

• Experience a meaningful mission moment designed to uplift families and strengthen our community for years to come.

• Receive a printed resource guide with helpful tips and tools, along with a curated wellness gift bag to support ongoing well-being.

By attending CHOC Let's Talk, you help turn the tide for overwhelmed families in need of treatment and encouragement. Your philanthropy enables Rady Children's to expand research, pioneer treatment, and enhance wellness, ensuring every child receives help, regardless of their family's ability to pay.

Stand with us in empowering kids to know their worth and live healthy, whole lives.

To explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact the CHOC Foundation at [email protected] or click on the button above. On behalf of families seeking hope and healing, thank you for linking arms with us and giving them the strength to heal together.

Featuring Misty Copeland

Misty Copeland is a groundbreaking ballet dancer, New York Times best-selling author, founder of the Misty Copeland Foundation, and the first African American woman promoted to principal dancer in the American Ballet Theatre's history.

Beginning her ballet studies at age 13, Misty's personal and professional experiences have driven her to excel as both a performer and an advocate for children, intergenerational equity, and diversity and inclusion in dance. 

From commanding the stage to leading through philanthropy and compassion, Copeland understands severe stress, public scrutiny, and the pressure to perform. She champions the positive effects that mentoring children can have on their self-worth and wellness.

Conversation moderated by Henry DiCarlo

Henry DiCarlo is an Emmy award winning AMS meteorologist and sportscaster for the KTLA 5 Morning News. A Television Meteorologist for over 25 years, Henry has worked in Palm Springs, CA, Salt Lake City, Utah, Seattle, Washington and Los Angeles. A four-time Emmy winner, Henry has won an Emmy for Weather, Sports, and Reporting.