Children's Institute Raises $4 Million at Gala
The record-setting Cape & Gown Gala honored Michele and Rob Reiner and presented an inaugural award to Jamie Lee Curtis.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Philanthropy
Children's Institute raised a record $4 million at its Annual Cape & Gown Gala, held Sunday, November 8, at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills. More than 600 guests attended the event, which honored the lives and legacy of Michele and Rob Reiner.
Why it matters
Proceeds support Children's Institute's work helping children and families heal from trauma, succeed in school, and build pathways to lifelong health and economic mobility. The gala's record total comes as the organization marks its 120th anniversary in 2026.
The gala raised a record $4 million from more than 600 guests at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The total is not broken down by program, and the allocation of funds was not detailed.
The players
Children's Institute
A Los Angeles County nonprofit founded in 1906 that provides early childhood education, mental health services, and whole-family support to approximately 30,000 children and families each year.
Jamie Lee Curtis
An actress and bestselling author of 14 children's books who received the inaugural Michele & Rob Reiner Champion for Change Award at the gala.
John Mayer
A seven-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter who performed at the gala and won a 2009 Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
Martine Singer
President and CEO of Children's Institute, who partnered on creating the award presented at the gala.
The details
Children's Institute held its Annual Cape & Gown Gala, where Jamie Lee Curtis received the inaugural Michele & Rob Reiner Champion for Change Award, presented jointly by Jake and Romy Reiner. John Mayer performed The Heart of Life and Gravity, Barry Sonnenfeld emceed, and Chelsea Handler spoke.
Timeline
Founded in 1906: Children's Institute is established.
2007: Rob Reiner's film The Bucket List is released.
2009: John Mayer wins a Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
2024: Just One More Sleep is published.
Sunday, November 8: The Cape & Gown Gala is held in Beverly Hills.
Philanthropy Context
The gala's record $4 million total arrives as Children's Institute, founded in 1906, approaches its 120th anniversary in 2026. The result places the organization's recent fundraising among the largest in its long history of serving Los Angeles County families.
Donations and event proceeds directly fund services for children and families across Los Angeles County. Residents interested in supporting the organization's programs can contribute to future fundraising efforts.
The takeaway
Record philanthropic events like this one show how community funding sustains early childhood education and family mental health services. Supporting local nonprofits through giving or attending fundraising events helps extend these services to more families.
Further reading
Explore more Philanthropy coverage tied to fundraising events and nonprofit giving in Beverly Hills.
