Angelitos de Oro was founded in 1961, the vision of Robert Guggenheim, then a Board Member of Big Brothers of Orange County. Inspired by the organization’s mission, he enlisted the help of his friend Mrs. Spencer T. Honig to establish a women’s auxiliary dedicated to supporting youth mentorship. The original members—many of whom had relocated from Los Angeles and Pasadena-San Marino to the quiet shores of Newport Beach—formed the foundation of what would become a powerful philanthropic force in Orange County.

As the region grew, so did the needs of Big Brothers, particularly with the inclusion of Big Sisters into the program. Fundraising efforts evolved over the decades—from the beloved “Gold Book” calendar, to glamorous dinner dances and formal balls. A milestone moment came in 1987, when the first gala fashion show debuted under a grand tent next to Amen Wardy at Fashion Island. Fashion icon Oscar de la Renta headlined the event, dazzling an audience of 600.

In the 1990s, Angelitos de Oro launched a prestigious speaker series, drawing national figures like Barbara Bush, William Bennett, Larry King, Elizabeth Dole, and several governors, further elevating the group’s impact and visibility.

In the 2000s, the popular Angelitos Card was introduced—offering exclusive discounts at South Coast Plaza retailers in exchange for a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters. For more than two decades, the card program has provided a fun and meaningful way to give back.