It was a balmy Thursday evening, Sept. 3, at the historic Rancho Los Alamitos beneath the majestic Moreton Bay Fig trees, apropos for the 100th-year celebration for the Tichenor Clinic for Children.
A delicious buffet was served that included chicken, beef and lobster rolls to the 170 or so people attending.
The special evening concluded the clinic’s yearlong centennial celebration with “100 Years Strong: The Future Starts Now.” The event brought together staunch supporters, friends, donors and longtime advocates to honor Tichenor’s rich 100-year history while looking ahead to a bright future of serving children with disabilities and their families.
Michele Dobson, president of the Tichenor Clinic Board of Directors, was the master of ceremonies for the evening, which was filled with warmth and enthusiasm. Guests enjoyed storytelling and philanthropy, while listening to live music performed by The Jazz Angels, whose vibrancy created a festive atmosphere.
A robust silent auction showcased more than 35 packages, along with four exciting live auction experiences, highlighted by a paella dinner and wine tasting for eight; a weeklong stay in a Vail condominium; a Texas lake vacation getaway; and a ticket package to the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. The live auction was conducted by Barry Cogert, whose energy and humor inspired spirited bidding and generous support from attendees.
Guests were welcomed with a special centennial video highlighting Tichenor Clinic’s extraordinary legacy over the past 100 years. Narrated by Executive Director Kathryn Miles, the video celebrated the lives transformed through Tichenor’s services and set an inspiring tone for the evening.
A particularly moving moment came when Dr. Torin Cunningham introduced “Jessica’s Story,” a client video that shared Jessica’s personal journey and healing experience at Tichenor Clinic. Her story served as a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact Tichenor has had on countless children and families throughout its history.
In addition to the auctions, guests also participated in a heartfelt “Fund a Need” appeal, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring that children with disabilities continue receiving the therapy, resources and support they need to reach their fullest potential. The Fund a Need portion of the evening highlighted the importance of investing in Tichenor’s future and generated meaningful support for the clinic’s ongoing programs and services.
Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed delicious food and beverages while taking part in an interactive experience with Jai the Sketch Guy, who illustrated guests’ wishes and hopes for Tichenor Clinic’s next 100 years in real time. The sketches served as a creative and inspiring reminder of the bright future envisioned by the Tichenor community.
Prior to the event, Tichenor Clinic had raised more than $55,000, with additional revenue still being finalized. These funds will help ensure that Tichenor continues providing vital therapeutic and support services to children and families for generations to come.
“As Tichenor Clinic closes the chapter on its first century of service,” Miles said, “the organization looks ahead with tremendous gratitude and excitement. The message of the evening was clear: Tichenor Clinic is 100 years strong, and the future starts now.”
Seen at the Scene: Tichenor Clinic Board of Directors President Michele Dobson, Executive Director Kathryn Miles, Dr. Charles and Margaret Durnin, Sandor and Deloris Mayuga, Pat and Julia McConaghy, Joan and Tom Alderson, Collete Anderson, Linda Silver, Melanie Werts, Roxanne Korzeniowski, Peter and Cathy Ridder, Steel Magnolia President Sue DeRosa, Gloria Deukmejian, Nancy Foster, Stephanie Davis, Marianne Gastelum, Sherry Loos; Angel Sanchez (from F&M Bank), Joyce Ricci, Raymond Cervantez, Dr. Torin Cunningham, Sarah Falkner, and Erin Wilson.
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.