News Summary
Jessica “Jessie” Joy Rees, a courageous young swimmer from Mission Viejo, is to be posthumously honored at the inaugural Orange County Sports Awards Gala. The Jessie Rees Foundation, created in her memory, will be awarded Philanthropist of the Year for their impactful work providing JoyJars to children battling cancer. Despite her tragic passing from brain tumors at a young age, her legacy continues through her family’s efforts. The gala aims to celebrate sports and philanthropy, featuring notable athletes and figures from the Orange County sports community.
Anaheim, California – Jessica “Jessie” Joy Rees, a courageous young swimmer from Mission Viejo Nadadores, is set to be honored posthumously at the inaugural Orange County Sports Awards Gala on June 3, 2025. In recognition of her philanthropic efforts, the Jessie Rees Foundation will receive the prestigious Philanthropist of the Year award at the event.
Jessie Rees was diagnosed with two inoperable brain tumors at the tender age of 11. During her outpatient treatment, she noticed many children who were unable to leave their hospital beds and was inspired to take meaningful action. With a heart full of compassion, she began filling paper lunch bags with toys and small gifts to uplift her fellow young patients battling cancer.
Sadly, Jessie lost her battle with cancer just 10 months after her diagnosis. However, her legacy continues through the efforts of her parents, who founded JoyJars in her honor. JoyJars are specially curated care packages filled with toys, socks, crayons, and other comforting gifts for young cancer patients. Under Jessie’s guiding motto of NEGU—Never Ever Give Up—the foundation has distributed over 500,000 JoyJars, positively impacting the lives of countless children facing illness.
The Orange County Sports Awards Gala aims to honor athletes and other sports figures who have made significant contributions to the community. Other notable honorees at this year’s gala include:
- Caroline Marks – Female Professional Athlete of the Year (Surfing Olympic Gold Medalist)
- Freddie Freeman – Male Professional Athlete of the Year (2024 Dodgers World Series MVP)
- Gene Autry – Legacy Award (Founder of Angels Baseball)
- Kelly Slater – ICON Award (11-time World Champion Surfer)
- Scott Boras – Lifetime Achievement (Forbes-ranked #1 Sports Agent in the World)
This gala promises to be a memorable event featuring a red-carpet entrance, award presentations, and speeches from several influential figures in Orange County’s sports community. Attendees will include athletes, coaches, sports journalists, and fans, making it a vibrant celebration of sports and philanthropy.
Proceeds from the Orange County Sports Awards Gala will benefit the Orange County Sports Commission, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of sports in the region. As this gala brings together a community of sports lovers and advocates, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of charity and giving back.
For those interested in attending, ticket information and sponsorship opportunities can be found at ocsportsawards.org. Furthermore, to learn more about Jessie Joy Rees and the NEGU Foundation, individuals can visit the NEGU.org website, where donations and support for the mission are welcomed.
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Additional Resources
- Swimming World Magazine: Jessie Joy Rees Foundation to Receive Philanthropist of the Year
- Wikipedia: Cancer
- OC Register: OC Inspiration 12 Loses Fight with Cancer
- Google Search: Jessie Joy Rees
- OC Register: Thousands Celebrate 12-Year-Old’s Life
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Philanthropy
