1st Annual Racing for Homeless Families, July 12, 2008
On Saturday, July 12th, the Illumination Foundation held its first fundraiser at Los Alamitos Race Course. More than 275 people attended, EACH ONE providing support that positively impacted homeless families. Thousands of dollars were raised and went directly to improving the lives of homeless children and their families, one need at a time.
The evening started with cocktails, appetizers, and Jockeys who were present for pictures and autographs.Diverse and enticing silent auction items, including the adorable puppy donated by Russo's pet store, attracted the attention of everyone present.
IF President and Co-Founder Paul Leon began the reception program by explaining the plight of the homeless in Orange County. His moving description which was reinforced by Dr. Eric Handler. Dr. Handler was then presented IF's first “Starfish Award” because of his public advocacy and work on behalf of the homeless. The award is based on the story of the boy who finds value in saving each beached starfish he can, regardless of the enormity of the overall task. This is a philosophy that IF has adopted: every homeless person matters and every action to help makes a difference. Dr. Edward Allred, whose generous offer of the racetrack's facilities made the idea of ‘Racing for Homeless Families' a reality,was presented the second starfish award. Flowers of gratitude were bestowed upon Dr. Patricia Riba and Cathy Monji, for organizing the event, but they were only a small token of the appreciation behind them. We were deeply honored to have State Senator Lou Correa speak on behalf of the cause and conclude the evening's program.
Following the program, a delicious gourmet candlelight dinner was enjoyed by all, with candles provided by Illuminations Candles. While dining, world-class horse racing delighted the crowd until late into the evening. Following the chocolate fountain dessert, music and dancing were available in the lounge. Although the serious purpose for the fundraiser was of utmost importance, this community of caring individuals showed they do know how to have a good time. Like our efforts throughout the county, the success of this event was due to the dedication of individuals.
Thank You Volunteers
- Sonia Chevallier
- Christina Mainero
- April Rudge
- Sandra Rose
- Loretta Kelly
- Katherine Cho
- Phung Tran
- Becky Stone
- Mike Stone
- Carolyn Ranney
- Rosey Vu
- Lindsay Brennan
- Laurel Kanin
- Margarita Cueto
- Janice Inguanzo
- Pamela Drake
- Alma Gutierrez
- Tom Hughes
- Kyle Hendricks
- Jessica Duncan
- Tong Park
- Amy Dai
- Ruth AndaraDianne Belton
- Gabriela Ledezma
- Rosario Olivera
- Katie Rootlieb
- Roberto Chavez
- Karen Sharp
- Diana Grace
- Pamela Alagata
- Miss Huntington Beach 2008 - Cayce Crowder
- Miss Huntington Beach Out Standing Teen 2008 - Laura Cunningham
- Miss Huntington Beach Princess 2008 - Amber Palm
