Velvet Nights fundraiser returns to Riverside on Nov. 14

The Adrian Dell and Carmen Roberts Foundation will host its 8th annual Velvet Nights jazz fundraiser on Nov. 14, 2026, at the Grand Taj in Riverside. The event will raise money for Inland Empire programs tied to cultural activities, education, economic opportunity and the Annual Riverside Black History Parade.

Why it matters: - Velvet Nights is a major fundraising night for the Adrian Dell and Carmen Roberts Foundation’s Inland Empire programs. - Proceeds support cultural activities, education and economic opportunities in the region, including the Annual Riverside Black History Parade. - The event also brings together community members, businesses and sponsors around a local cause.

What happened: - The Adrian Dell and Carmen Roberts Foundation announced Velvet Nights, its 8th Annual Jazz Fundraiser, for Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026. - The event runs from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Grand Taj in Riverside. - The evening will include live jazz, a gourmet dinner, dancing and raffles. - Individual tickets cost $150. - Tables for eight cost $1,200. - Sponsorship packages are available for businesses and individuals.

The details: - The venue is Grand Taj, 10190 Indiana Avenue, Riverside, CA 92503. - Event phone contact is (951) 684-8782. - Tickets are listed at ADCRFundation.org. - The foundation encourages early registration because seating is limited. - The foundation describes itself as a volunteer-led group focused on empowering Inland Empire citizens through cultural activities, education and economic growth. - The foundation says its signature event is the Annual Black History Parade and Expo in Downtown Riverside. - More information about the foundation is available here.

Between the lines: - Velvet Nights is positioned as both a social event and a funding vehicle, which helps the foundation blend entertainment with donor outreach. - The mix of ticketed attendance and sponsorships suggests the foundation is targeting individual supporters and higher-dollar community partners. - The emphasis on local cultural programming ties the fundraiser to a broader civic identity in Riverside and the Inland Empire.

What's next: - Community members can buy tickets or reserve tables ahead of the Nov. 14 event. - Businesses and individuals can also pursue sponsorship opportunities before seating fills up. - The foundation is expected to use the fundraiser to support upcoming cultural and community programs.