In advance of the annual White Party Charity Fundraiser, set for August 20 at Newport Dunes, Bob O’Neill, EVP, CapRock Partners and a member of the Building Block Foundation Fund board of governors, provided Connect CRE with a look at the event and what it means for the community. CapRock Partners is also a Title Sponsor for the 2025 Building Block Foundation Fund White Party Charity Fundraiser.
Q: What is the focus of Building Block Foundation Fund (BBFF) and how does it fit CapRock’s charity/community commitment?
A: Building Block Foundation Fund (BBFF) supports charities that improve the lives of at-risk and underprivileged youth in Orange County. Its mission is to bring together the commercial real estate (CRE) industry to raise funds and awareness for these causes. Since 2004, BBFF has raised over $3.2 million for its partner charities, including Project Access, Hope Ignites Southern California, Everfree, Joyful Child Foundation, KidWorks, Orangewood Children’s Foundation, HomeAid, and Hope Builders.
This aligns closely with CapRock Partners’ core value of “Blessed to Be a Blessing (10%),” which emphasizes using the company’s financial success to support charitable organizations. BBFF’s focus on underserved communities resonates with CapRock’s commitment to philanthropy, as it provides a platform to channel CRE industry resources into meaningful community impact. As a BBFF board member since 2009, BBFF’s mission aligns with CapRock’s core values, which were rooted in CapRock’s founding, making BBFF a natural fit for their charitable efforts.
Q: What is significant about the charities that BBFF supports? What does the Commercial Real Estate community need to know?
A: The charities supported by BBFF are significant because they address critical needs of at-risk youth in Orange County, focusing on areas such as education, housing, mentorship, and protection from exploitation. For example, Orangewood Foundation provides programs for young people experiencing homelessness and trafficking, offering resources like scholarships and support for independent living. Project Access and HomeAid focus on housing and community support, while Hope Ignites Southern California, Everfree, Joyful Child Foundation, KidWorks, and Hope Builders offer services ranging from education and career readiness to child safety and advocacy. These organizations collectively work to empower underserved youth, fostering self-sufficiency and brighter futures.
The CRE community needs to know that BBFF serves as a vital bridge between their industry’s success and community impact. By participating in BBFF’s initiatives, such as the White Party fundraiser, CRE professionals can directly contribute to these charities’ missions. The CRE industry’s involvement not only provides financial support but also raises awareness about the challenges faced by at-risk youth, encouraging broader participation and long-term commitment. BBFF’s work resonates with the CRE industry’s capacity to give back, making it a compelling cause for industry leaders to support.
Q: What are you looking forward to at this year’s event?
A: For the 2025 White Party, I’m excited about the growing momentum for the event, with over 50 CRE corporate sponsors, including several first-time sponsors, and an expected attendance of over 375 CRE professionals. In 2024, we sold out of all corporate sponsorship categories as well as the individual ticket sales. This growth reflects increasing industry support for BBFF’s mission. I look forward to connecting with new and existing industry peers in a celebratory, beachside setting at Newport Dunes, fostering new relationships while supporting a great cause. The event’s evolution over the past nine years makes it a highlight of the year, and I’m eager to see the continued impact of our collective efforts.
Q: What can attendees expect at the event?
A: Attendees of the 2025 White Party at Newport Dunes can expect a vibrant, beachside evening filled with networking, celebration, and philanthropy. The venue will be transformed into a stunning setting with food, music, and fun party props and games to keep the energy high. The casual atmosphere allows CRE professionals to connect with peers and friends while supporting BBFF’s partner charities. The event combines industry networking with a meaningful cause, turning CRE success into impactful donations for Orange County’s at-risk youth. It’s a unique opportunity to celebrate together and make a difference.
Tickets are available at
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