More than 700 guests came aboard Cal State Long Beach on Oct. 3 for “Rock the Yacht,” an unforgettable night celebrating 35 years of Pathways to Independence. Perhaps sailors couldn’t dress in the warm styles of the guests, but many participants got in the spirit with a whole lot of saluting going on.
Pathways serves young women whose lives have been changed through the organization’s programs.
The 30th annual Friends of Pathways fundraiser transformed the CSULB grounds into a lively evening of yacht rock, community and generosity. The live auction kept guests engagedwith exciting opportunities included a luxurious getaway to Paso Robles, stays at a Lahontan Tahoe mountain retreat and a luxury stay at Mammoth. A whopping success story, the evening raised about $700,000 to support Pathways’ work.
Pathways to Independence, photo from left, Mike and Diane Jensen, and Director of Development Lisa Mais. (Courtesy)
Pathways to Independence, from left, First row: Mellissa Perez, Xuemei Wei, Diana Wolf, Diana Hill (executive director), Sonia E. Aldana, Lindsay Mais, Ana C. Lopez. Back row: Jonathan Micklis, Robert A. Casares, Sylvia Hendron, Raymond Cervantez, Dr. Keely Lewis and John Giacomini. (Courtesy)
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Pathways to Independence, photo from left, Mike and Diane Jensen, and Director of Development Lisa Mais. (Courtesy)
Lindsay Mais, who is a Friend of Pathways member, a member of the Pathways Board of Directors and past board chair, was celebrated as the organization’s “Change Maker,” recognizing her dedication and leadership, and for being a part of the original troupe.
Guests enjoyed delicious food from 35 local restaurants and refreshing beverages from six sponsors. Some of this year’s guest favorites were Baja Sonora, which has beenparticipating for 27 years; and longtime supporters Paul and Dana Buchanan of Primal Alchemy, who have donated their delicious comestibles for the sponsor party. Also popular were Naples Rib Co. with their “brisket-tini” and Luna Bistro with their jumbo shrimp. Nigel’s unique “grass”-covered display was a fun and delicious stop: when guests rang a bell, a hand offering a delectable dessert appeared through a veiled opening.
The audience danced enthusiastically to the lively music from The Astro Yachts and for only $20, people could put someone in “jail,” where the “prisoner” then received a souvenir fromtheir time in the pokey after being bailed out (for a price).
One of the most meaningful moments of the evening came when a Pathways client shared her powerful story of overcoming hardship, applying to Pathways twice before being accepted, and persevering to build a brighter future. Her story was a moving reminder of why the community comes together to support Pathways.
Director of Development Lisa Mais shared the true impact of the evening.
“The proceeds cover nearly half of Pathways’ annual budget,” she said, “providing critical support for the 41 young women currently in our program.”
She also recognized the more than 75 dedicated volunteers from Friends of Pathways whose time, energy and commitment helped make Rock the Yacht a success.
Since 1991, Pathways to Independence has been breaking the cycles of poverty and abuse by providing disadvantaged single young women with education, therapy, mentoring, housing, healthcare and other essential support. More than 500 women have been supported, with about 80% earning college degrees, creating a ripple effect that reaches far beyond each individual graduate. For more information, go to pathwaystoindependence.org.
Sponsors: Title sponsors were Lisa and Frank Chapman, presenting sponsor was Farmers & Merchants Bank, and legacy sponsors were Jerry and Jean Green.
Scene at the Scene: Diane and Mike Jensen, Dr. Grant Uba and Debbie, and Frank Chapman, Lindsay Mais and John Anderson, Kevin and Nancy Malloy, Collette Anderson, Chris and Ellen Pook, Theresa Brunella, Jill Rosenberg, Suzie Price, Cindy Gillis, Jo and David Murray, Executive Director Diana Hill.
Children’s Benefit League
Children’s Benefit League held its fourth annual fall fundraiser on Sept. 12 at the Long Beach Yacht Club. They enjoyed a warm day with a light breeze and blue skies as thepanorama of boats sailed by.
“It was a day to remember,“ said Mary Bell. “We raised $15,000” and had a fun time.”
Delectable dining included Cobb salad with chocolate lava dessert, described as “the best chocolate ever.”
There was great enthusiasm for the “Chips Ahoy” game that has evolved over the years. Chips are purchased for selected action items; the buyer raises their paddle and if the number drawn matches it, they win the item. Funds raised will be donated to the five children’s clinics in Long Beach: The Children’s Guidance Center, Ability First, John Tracy Center, The Dental Clinic and The Guidance Clinic.
Scene at the Scene: Jona Howe, Susan Livesay, Donna Luciene, Donna McFarland, Debbie Madden, Michelle Nygard, Judy Nichols, Pat Leue, Jeanne Johnson, Sharon Young, Connie Stewart, Mary Bell, Jan Barcus, Carole Black, Rachel Campbell, Nancy Perkins, Lauren Garcia, Judy Cornwall, Cheri de Gomez, Sylvia Desmond, Iris Mandel, Jocelyn Joiner, and Andrea La Vela.
News of Social events with charitable purposes may be sent to Shirley Wild at spwild@verizon.net. Please include a contact phone number. Send high-resolution jpeg photos, by attachment, to spwild@verizon.net and include group name and identification of individuals from left. Call Shirley at 562-594-9468 for more information.