Ophelia Luncheon 2026 to Celebrate Young Women, Mentors, and Community Support

Annual event highlights life-changing impact of mentorship, education, and community investment in Coachella Valley youth.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The John F. Kennedy Memorial Foundation will host its annual Ophelia Luncheon on March 16, 2026, at The Westin Rancho Mirage Resort & Spa. The event celebrates the Ophelia Program's work empowering young women in the Coachella Valley through mentorship, education, and community support. Students, mentors, educators, and supporters will gather to recognize graduating seniors and hear inspiring stories from participants.

Why it matters

The Ophelia Luncheon serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impact a community can have when it invests in its youth. The program currently reaches 610 young women across 21 schools in the Coachella Valley, with plans to expand to every middle and high school in the region.

The details

The Ophelia Luncheon highlights the life-changing impact of the Ophelia Program, which provides mentorship, education, and leadership development opportunities for young women. Guests will hear from program participants, recognize graduating seniors, and celebrate the mentors whose guidance helps build confidence and a vision for the future.

  • The 2026 Ophelia Luncheon will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026.

The players

John F. Kennedy Memorial Foundation

A nonprofit organization dedicated to creating brighter futures for youth in the Coachella Valley, with the Ophelia Program as its flagship initiative.

Peter Sturgeon

CEO of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Foundation.

Ophelia Program

An initiative that empowers young women from middle school through high school to achieve their dreams of graduating and pursuing higher education through mentorship, education, and community support.

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What they’re saying

“The Ophelia Luncheon is one of the most meaningful days of our year—a celebration of the girls, mentors, and community partners who believe in the power of education, encouragement, and opportunity.”

— Peter Sturgeon, CEO of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Foundation (EINPresswire.com)

What’s next

The 2026 Ophelia Luncheon is made possible through the generous support of Event Sponsor the Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians and additional sponsors. For more information on the event, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket details, interested parties can contact Kippy LaFlame at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Foundation.

The takeaway

The Ophelia Luncheon highlights the transformative power of investing in young women through mentorship, education, and community support. The program's expansion across the Coachella Valley demonstrates the region's commitment to empowering the next generation of female leaders.