One Team, One Mission: The Harold and Carole Pump Foundation Marks 25 Years with Star-Studded Celebration
In a city that thrives on glitz, glamour, and headlines, some nights still manage to rise above the noise. This August 15 at The Beverly Hilton, the 25th Anniversary Celebrity Dinner hosted by the Harold and Carole Pump Foundation (HCPF) promises to be one of those rare evenings where the spotlight isn’t just on fame — but on purpose.
At the heart of it all is a story about two sons, Dana and David Pump, who turned personal loss into public service. After losing their father Harold to cancer in 2000, and later their mother Carole, the brothers committed themselves to a mission that has now lasted a quarter-century: to honor their parents by fighting cancer, funding treatment centers, and uniting people across industries in the name of hope.
“We started this to keep our parents’ legacy alive, and 25 years later, it’s so much bigger than we imagined,” said Dana Pump. “We’re here because people show up — for each other, for community, and for a cause that touches every one of us.”
Icons Who Did It All — and Gave Back
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award recipients aren’t just known for greatness in their respective fields — they’re being honored for what they’ve done with that greatness.
Aaron Donald, who recently stepped away from professional football after a decade of dominance, is one of the most celebrated defensive players in NFL history. But it’s what he’s building off the field — with The Aaron Donald 99 Foundation and Donald Development Group — that sets him apart. “It means the world to be recognized for both football and community work,” Donald said. “That’s legacy.”
Barry Bonds, baseball’s all-time home run leader and lightning rod for sports debate, has spent the years since his retirement focused on something quieter but no less impactful: education. Through The Bonds Family Foundation, he’s helped underserved students access enrichment programs and tutoring — leveling the playing field in a different way.
Then there’s Spike Lee. For over 30 years, he’s told stories other people were too afraid to tell. He challenged America with Do the Right Thing, redefined cinematic activism with Malcolm X, and finally took home his long-deserved Oscar for BlacKkKlansman. His art has always been political — but also deeply human. This honor adds to a long list of overdue flowers.
And of course, Wayne Gretzky — “The Great One.” The name alone conjures a lifetime of highlight reels, but beyond the records and rings, Gretzky’s been quietly shaping the sport’s future. From team ownership to mentoring young players, he’s stayed connected to the game — and to the people who love it.
Humanitarian Spirit in Action
Also receiving honors this year are Reggie McKnight, Global Head of Community Impact at Google, and R.J. Melman, President and CEO of the Lettuce Entertain You restaurant group. The two will be presented with the Humanitarian Award for their dedication to workforce development, equity initiatives, and charitable outreach.
“These are people who understand what it means to leverage their success for good,” said David Pump. “That’s the kind of leadership we want to spotlight.”
An Auction with Soul — and Star Power
As always, the Foundation’s famed silent and live auctions will offer rare collectibles, luxury travel, and VIP experiences — from courtside seats to curated getaways. But this isn’t just a fundraiser with celebrities. It’s a room full of people — athletes, entrepreneurs, artists, doctors — who’ve been touched by cancer and want to make a difference.
To date, HCPF has raised more than $10.5 million — money that’s helped fund cancer treatment facilities, cutting-edge technologies, and essential patient services across Southern California.
The Foundation works closely with the Northridge Hospital Foundation and other nonprofits, supporting programs like the Carole Pump Women’s Center, Harold and Carole Pump Department of Radiation Oncology, and the Thomas and Dorothy Leavey Cancer Center.
Why It Matters
What makes this night so resonant — year after year — is that it doesn’t forget the people behind the purpose. Yes, it’s a who’s-who of sports and entertainment, but it’s also about the families in treatment, the survivors in the crowd, and the quiet determination to keep fighting.
“Cancer doesn’t care who you are,” said Dana. “But community does. And when we come together, we’re stronger than this disease.”
After 25 years, the mission hasn’t changed. If anything, it’s only grown louder: one team, one mission — until there’s a cure.
