Tickets are now on sale for the benefit gala presented by Desert Care Network at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Various sponsorship levels are still available. Respected former Palm Springs mayor Lisa Middleton to be honored with the Community Service Award. The Temptations revealed as headline entertainers.
For more than three decades, the Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards (affectionately known as The Chase) has been one of the desert’s most iconic and impactful evenings — a night when philanthropy, friendship, and entertainment come together to fuel health equity for tens of thousands across Southern California. On Saturday, February 21, 2026, the tradition continues at the Palm Springs Convention Center, proudly presented by Desert Care Network, as more than 1,000 guests gather to celebrate compassion in action.
More Than a Gala. A Movement!
At The Chase, showing up means standing up. Every seat purchased, every sponsorship pledged, and every paddle raised become a force for good — supporting DAP Health’s mission to provide care to more than 88,000 people at 25 locations and eight mobile units.
Founded in 1984 in response to the AIDS crisis, DAP Health has grown into one of the nation’s most respected community health centers. Its unwavering commitment to inclusiveness and dignity has transformed lives for over four decades, ensuring no one is left behind, regardless of income, immigration status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The Chase honors this spirit. Year after year, the event has attracted Hollywood legends, Grammy-winning artists, visionary philanthropists, and courageous community leaders, all united by a shared belief that health care is not a privilege but a human right.
This Year’s Spotlight: Lisa Middleton
In 2026, DAP Health will proudly honor Lisa Middleton, whose leadership has left an indelible mark on Palm Springs and beyond. From expanding affordable housing to advocating for seniors, veterans, and working families, she has led with both heart and resolve. Her recognition with the Community Service Award shines a light not just on her remarkable achievements, but on the values she embodies: integrity, inclusivity, and the courage to lead authentically.
“Lisa Middleton has given so much of herself to this community, with heart, integrity, and a deep commitment to making Palm Springs a place where everyone belongs,” says DAP Health Board Vice Chair and Gala Chair Kevin Bass. “Honoring her is our way of expressing gratitude for the countless ways she’s lifted us all.”
A Legendary Soundtrack: The Temptations
Adding to the magic, The Temptations will headline this year’s gala. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, winners of multiple Grammys, and the voices behind timeless hits like “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” The Temptations are more than a musical act, they are living history. Their songs have defined generations, bridging divides and inspiring joy. For gala guests, the chance to sway to their soulful harmonies will be both a celebration of music and a reminder of the power of legacy, a perfect echo of The Chase’s enduring mission.
A Tradition of Compassion
Named in honor of Steve Chase, the world-renowned interior designer and philanthropist whose generosity helped DAP Health flourish in its earliest days, the gala has become one of the Coachella Valley’s signature events. It carries his legacy forward, inviting each new generation to join the cause and invest in a future where everyone can access high-quality, affirming care.
The Program
- 5:30 p.m. | Arrivals – Cocktail Reception – Silent Auction
- 6:30 p.m. | Ballroom Opens – Dinner – Live Auction
- 9:00 p.m. | Headline Entertainment: The Temptations
Dress code: Creative formal – Dress to impress with your own uniquely fabulous formal flair.
Tickets & Sponsorships
- Tickets: Available now at daphealth.org/thechase.
- Sponsorships: Opportunities to amplify your impact are available at daphealth.org/sponsor-the-chase or by writing to [email protected].
About DAP Health
DAP Health, founded by community volunteers in 1984 during the AIDS crisis, is an award-winning community health center whose 1,000 employees serve more than 88,000 patients at 25 locations and eight mobile units throughout Southern California. Forever guided by the voices of the members of the diverse communities it serves, the nonprofit’s mission is to provide comprehensive health care and support services where all people are seen, heard, and affirmed.
About Lisa Middleton
Lisa Middleton is a trailblazing public servant with a distinguished career spanning local government, statewide boards, and nonprofit leadership. She has championed public service, equity, and community development. Lisa is a proud parent, accomplished professional, and dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
About The Temptations
One of the most iconic and influential vocal groups in American music history, formed in Detroit in 1961, The Temptations rose to fame with Motown Records, captivating audiences with timeless, Grammy-winning hits. With Otis Williams as the sole surviving original member, The Temptations continue to inspire fans around the world.
Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Desert Care Network
Major Sponsors
Kevin Bass & Brent Bloesser
Jim Burba & Bob Hayes
El Paseo Jewelers
Lance & Scot Karp
Trina Turk
Supporting Sponsors
Daniel & Carolyn Caldwell
Bruce W. Finch & Keith Reimann
Fromberg Edelstein Fromberg
Alan Kaminsky
OneSource Strategy
Benefactor Sponsors
Coachella Valley Health Personnel
Dr. Tim Jochen & Lee Erwin
Revive Wellness
Media Sponsors
Alpha Media
CV Independent
GED Magazine
Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce
NBC Palm Springs
Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce
Palm Springs Life
The Desert Sun
The Hollywood Times
The Joey English Show
The Standard Magazine
Gala Chair
Kevin Bass
Gala Committee
Bill Bastian
Grant Elder
Bruce W. Finch
Lynn Hammond
Karyl E. Ketchum, Ph.D.
Randy Paschke
David Sperber
