Assistance League Coachella Valley bedazzles at annual fundraiser

They’ve been razzling and dazzling our community since 1976, but this year, Assistance League Coachella Valley bedazzled as well at its annual fundraiser, held March 7 at Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage.

An enticing array of silent and live auction items, a raffle, a vendor marketplace that rivaled El Paseo, a video montage of the nonprofit’s programs and activities and new technology to help manage the auction items — all helped Assistance League Coachella Valley (ALCV) really raise the bar … and the entire casino as well.

More than 270 “Razzle Dazzle Bedazzle” guests helped generate funds needed by the organization. Those funds stay right here in Coachella Valley, addressing the specific needs of our community.

“The event was a huge success,” said Doreen Wakefield, event chairperson. “ALCV had 12 different committees, all of which contributed to creating a seamless and joyous occasion. The Agua Caliente staff really went above and beyond to ensure that everything was perfect. It’s ALCV’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and it’s wonderful to be able to support those in need.”

Comedy magician Jeff Hobson added some color and spice to the silent auction bidding area, while News Channel 3 meteorologist Patrick Evans emceed the live auction.

“ALCV does so much,” Evans said. “I enjoy participating because I believe in their mission of giving back. This event is especially fun because members and their friends really come together to celebrate the ‘giving’ part.”

Assistance League Coachella Valley, one of 120 chapters nationwide, is an all-volunteer nonprofit that transforms the lives of children and adults through its community programs.

ALCV is always broadening the scope of current activities and implementing new programs. “Operation School Bell,” which provides clothing, hygiene kits, backpacks and school supplies to students, is now in area middle and high schools.

ALCV also opened a resale boutique in Palm Desert in 2023. Coachella Valley Chapter President Karen Goodyear said, “We’re clothing more children and distributing assault survivor kits to victims of violent crimes. Our performing arts scholarship program for teens is thriving. We have senior services and a baby shower that honors first-time mothers from Twentynine Palms Marine Base. I am very proud of what we have achieved.”

The senior services program is a shining example of the work ALCV does in the community. This past year, the organization provided more than 600 nursing home residents in four area senior living facilities with musical entertainment, friendly visits, comforting cards, holiday gifts, clothing and footwear.

Jane Huddleston, program chairperson, said, “The activity directors at each of these facilities say we are unique in delivering the services we provide in the valley. For instance, we recently made, by hand, more than 150 lap blankets for residents.”

The visits to the facilities always bring good cheer to those who might otherwise feel isolated and lonely. “ALCV members, too, come away filled with such immense joy and satisfaction,” she said.

Desert Mountain Care Center in Indio has welcomed ALCV in as a part of its community. Twice a month, ALCV provides residents with musical entertainment.

“This fun experience gives them a chance to socialize with others and improve their well-being. That’s so important at any age,” said Activity Director Kaye Totto. “Our top priority is our residents’ comfort and sense of belonging. Seeing our residents so happy and engaged is priceless. We can’t thank ALCV enough for helping us keep our promise to them.”

The 2024 “Razzle Dazzle Bedazzle” event served as a culmination of sorts for all that ALCV does throughout the year. It’s a fundraiser, but it’s also a celebration. A celebration of all the good they do.

“We live in such an amazing, giving community,” Evans said. “The Assistance League Coachella Valley is a prime example of that.”

“Our members donated more than 20,000 hours of their time last year, touching the lives of so many,” Goodyear said. “And we will keep doing just that.”

Learn more about Assistance League Coachella Valley at assistanceleague.org/coachella-valley.

Sergio Garcia enjoys writing about the good people that do great things in our area. Reach him at sergio071364@aol.com.

JUDY PEARSON, SPECIAL TO THE DESERT SUN Susan Robinson, Carolyn Brackin, Sandy Spray, Mary Hackley, Meg Irwin, Tootie Killingsworth, Linda Cameron, and Janet Acker pose at the Assistance League Coachella Valley’s annual fundraiser, held March 7, 2024, in Rancho Mirage, Calif.

SERGIO GARCIA, SPECIAL TO THE DESERT SUN Verma Bellah, Patsy Vann and Karen Goodyear pose at the fundraiser.

BARBARA KLINE, SPECIAL TO THE DESERT SUN Christine McClain, Karen Goodyear Ellen Lambright attend the event.

SERGIO GARCIA, SPECIAL TO THE DESERT SUN Jim Dahl, Larry Langner and Scott Lindberg were attendees.

SERGIO GARCIA, SPECIAL TO THE DESERT SUN Karla Kjellin-Elder, Pamela Bower, Lori Grossberg, Jeff Hobson and Judy Pearson pose at the fundraiser.

JUDY PEARSON, SPECIAL TO THE DESERT SUN Nicola Fancy and Andrew Lindley showed their support.

JUDY PEARSON, SPECIAL TO THE DESERT SUN Steve Goodyear, Jeff Hobson and Kellie Kidder attend the event.