Danny Kwock discusses how he became inspired to become a professional surfer – the movie “Five Summer Stories” by Laguna Beach big-screen movie producer/director Greg MacGillivray, and the scene with surf legend Gerry Lopez. From the documentary The OC Effect: Orange County’s Surf-Skate Business Evolution, produced by OC World Founder / Executive Producer Scott Hays and OC Effect Co-Producer Terry Corwin.
Thank You, Orange County! Orange County Community Foundation has been hosting “Giving Days” for the past decade—an annual celebration where local nonprofits, businesses, and individuals come together to raise funds for themed campaigns, including last month’s “Help Them Home” campaign: 29 organizations, 2,460 donors, $1.8+ million raised!
Laguna Beach resident Greg MacGillivray is a pioneering force in cinematography, especially for his innovative approaches to large-format filmmaking and specialized camera rigs. In his book Five Hundred Summer Stories: A Life of IMAX, MacGillivray writes about his life’s mission to give his audience an experience that transforms how they see the world and themselves. In this 90-second clip, he describes an early-career innovation of using one of the first IMAX cameras to film a train scene using a mirror.
Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF) introduced its collaborative “Giving Days” initiative following the success of a county-wide initiative that began in 2015, which has raised more than $30 million for local nonprofits thanks to the generosity of Orange County residents. The recent “Help Them Home” campaign for the homeless is the focus of an upcoming OC World program, airing 5 p.m. Monday 30 June and now available for an “exclusive” viewing.
OC World recently collaborated with Little Saigon TV on a public affairs program about Orange County resident Ted Nguyen and his family, and their journey from Saigon to Orange County — thanks, in large part, to the efforts of the “sponsor” family Lt. Col. James E. Behnke. Here’s a version with Vietnamese subtitles.
“Hope Dies Last” creates a narrative around the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on California communities, and the stories of families who find hope in the darkest of times. This OC World produced documentary was awarded Best Long Form Programming or Documentary at the 73rd Annual Golden Mike Awards® and was also the winner of the 43rd Gold Telly Awards.
“Playing for Change” was a viral video that roughly 20 years ago had a great message about the power and awe of music and philanthropy. It has been viewed more than 200 million times and it started with the great Ben E. King classic song "Stand by Me," and it featured musicians from around the world. OC World had the opportunity to interview two visionaries who continue to raise funds to support music and arts programs in schools both locally and globally... Alec Glasser, owner of the Drake Restaurant in Laguna Beach and founder of The Drake Gives, and Jake Groshong, CEO for the “Playing for Change” Foundation.
For decades, wildfires have been a part of the natural cycle of Southern California, shaping its ecosystems and landscapes. In recent years, however, these fires have become an all-too-common, leaving devastation in their wake. As Orange County faces an uncertain future when it comes to wildfire season, the need for action has never been more urgent. Through resilience, innovation, and a shared commitment to stewardship, communities need to forge a path forward, and safeguard their homes, their environments, and their way of life.
Celebrating every unique move and groove! Down for Dance empowers individuals with Down syndrome to express themselves, build confidence, and connect through the joy of dance. Together, we're breaking barriers and creating magic on the dance floor.
El Centro Cultural de México created Noche de Altares not just as a celebration—but as a cultural necessity. In a time when many traditions risk fading, this event became a way to uplift, protect, and share the beauty of Día de los Muertos with the broader community. Inviting people of all backgrounds to learn, connect, and honor heritage through art, music, food, storytelling, and remembrance.
