MNITF EVENTS
PAST EVENTS
A Heart Full of Hope Premiere
Fine Arts Theater in Beverly Hills, CA – November 5, 2025
The holiday spirit lit up the Fine Arts Theater in Beverly Hills as cast, crew, and special guests gathered for the red carpet premiere of A Heart Full of Hope, the newest uplifting film from MNITF and Suzanne DeLaurentiis Productions. The event celebrated a story of compassion, perseverance, and second chances—echoing MNITF’s mission to advance organ donation awareness. Stars Juliah Taylor, Chelsea Rose Cook, Sebastian Armani, director Dale Fabrigar, MNITF executive director Nicole Mendez, and producer Suzanne DeLaurentiis attended, with guests enjoying red carpet photos, holiday cheer, and a post-screening reception featuring Fat Sal’s, Bug & Bears cannoli, and Booze & Brews drinks. “A Heart Full of Hope is more than a holiday movie—it’s a reminder that kindness and faith can light the way,” said Mendez. “We’re proud to share a message that brings vital attention to the importance of living kidney donors,” added DeLaurentiis.
Cast + Crew of “A Heart Full of Hope”
Sebastian Armani
Nels Van Patten & Nancy Valens
Nicole Mendez & Suzanne DeLaurentiis
Chelsea Cook
Cast + Crew of “A Heart Full of Hope”
Holiday Gala
The Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA – November 2, 2025
The 2025 MNITF Holiday Gala, held at the iconic Beverly Wilshire Hotel and produced by Suzanne DeLaurentiis Productions, was a dazzling, star-studded evening of entertainment and celebration. Hosted by actress Eva LaRue, known for CSI: Miami and her acclaimed work in daytime television.
The show featured a lively tap dance routine led by Disney star Garrett Clayton, a captivating hand-balancing act, and a festive finale by The Satin Dollz performing a 1940s-inspired holiday medley, which was produced by the talented Shannon Beach.
Other celebrities in attendance were Eric Roberts, Michael Paré, and Stepfanie Kramer
Guests enjoyed walking the red carpet, indulging in cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, dinner, and bidding in exclusive auctions before departing with elegant gift bags. It was truly a joyful night honoring the incredible work of our foundation.
Chris Yzaguirre, Nicole Mendez, Eric Chaves, Michelle Chaves, Eva Iino, and John Iino
Nicole Mendez & Michael Paré
Nicole Mendez & Garrett Clayton
Michael Paré
Nicole Mendez & Eric Roberts
Nicole Mendez & The Satin Dollz
Eric Roberts & wife Eliza
Eva La Rue & Kaya Callahan
Shopping Event at Zadig & Voltaire
Zadig & Voltaire in Beverly Hills, CA – October 2025
October brought an incredible turnout for our shopping event benefitting the Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation! With Avaline Wines as our partner, guests sipped, shopped, and supported a meaningful cause at Zadig & Voltaire.
Nicole Mendez & Suzanne DeLaurentiis
MNIT Foundation is a 501(c)(3),Tax I.D. #95-445-0030, non-profit organization.
All contributions are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. All but $175 per attendee is tax deductible.
For more information please contact Nicole Mendez at 424.358.4449 or Nicole@mnitf.org