In keeping with its mission since 1975, the Orinda Park and Recreation Foundation (OPRF) announced $22,000 in charitable donations to aid Orinda’s recreation and community service activities during 2023.
The Orinda Parks and Recreation Department received $14,000, which helps fund the monthly Senior Field Trip Transportation in partnership with the Town of Moraga; Summer Concert and Movie Series in the Park; Teen Advisory Council for Orinda Youth Sports uniforms, equipment and facility rental and for their Spring Blood Drive, in addition to food and crafts for Kids Night-Out events, which promote health, wellness and relationship-building.
Lamorinda Adult Respite Center (LARC), a state-licensed, non-profit, received $3,000 to support its live musical entertainment program. Offered four days a week, this and other activities are key for residents suffering from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, strokes, etc., while giving respite for caregivers. Since 1997, LARC staff and trained volunteers have provided supervised activities such as lively singing, dancing and laughing to foster dignity and self-worth for its seniors.
OPRF donated $2,000 to the Pacific Chamber Orchestra Music in Schools program, which supports inspirational classical music educational performances within OUSD elementary schools.
In late 2022, the Foundation gave additional funds to The Orinda Association for the 4th of July Parade and to the Orinda Parks and Recreation Department for the Christmas Tree Lighting in the Park
For those interested in serving on the OPRF board or volunteering with its fundraising efforts to renovate the park or support ongoing recreational programs, contact President Carolyn Mills at bcmills36@gmail.com.
Chris Harnett can be reached at editor@theorindanews.com.
