Wendy Boyer walks the runway dressed in J.Jill at the 2022 fashion show, one of many events that helped fundraise for the 2022 beneficiary, Familia Unidas, an organization that deals with employment, homelessness, hunger and mental health in diverse communities in west Contra Costa County.
Save the date! The 37th annual Festival of Trees, organized by the Orinda Woman’s Club (OWC), is Friday, Nov. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the San Ramon Marriott.
This event is a significant fundraiser for the OWC, which chose Trinity Center of Walnut Creek in support of their Transitional Aged Youth Program (TAY) as their major beneficiary this year.
“Those who attend will have a wonderful start to the winter season, while helping us fund the very important work of the Trinity Center,” said Jean Barnhart, a 25-year member and current president of the OWC.
The event begins with a silent auction of 50+ items, featuring a jersey signed by Golden State Warriors basketball star, Klay Thompson. Themed and decorated tabletop Christmas trees, luxurious gift baskets, original watercolors by local artist Benlu Jiang and drawings for destination stays in Sonoma’s wine country and other vacation locations will also be up for bid.
“What better way to celebrate the season of giving while enjoying a wonderful lunch and trying to win some of the many gift baskets, decorated tabletop trees, many fantastic silent auction items and trips?” said Barnhart.
While perusing the auction offerings, guests can enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine before the luncheon in the ballroom at 12 p.m.
ABC Channel news anchor Dan Ashley returns as emcee to greet guests, introduce the major beneficiary Trinity Center of Walnut Creek and announce raffle winners.
But the fun doesn’t end there – a fashion show featuring clothing and accessories from Chico’s and J. McLaughlin, of Danville and Le Rouge in Montclair, follows lunch.
The Club assesses requests from local non-profit organizations and donates the proceeds to aid those most in need, with a focus on women, children and the elderly.
The Trinity Center offers essential safety net services and a pathway forward for vulnerable neighbors, advocating for those seeking housing, financial stability and wellness in Walnut Creek and central Contra Costa County.
The TAY program provides support to young adults under the age of 29 who find themselves without housing or financial support.
“The Orinda Woman’s Club understands the need and believes in Trinity’s ability to make a difference,” said Suzanne Murillo, treasurer.
Club proceeds also fund educational or vocational grants to former foster children, women rejoining the workforce and one Miramonte High School graduating senior each year.
“The Orinda Woman’s Club has, for more than 50 years, contributed to the Orinda community in so many ways through both donations and hands-on work,” said Jean Barnhart, a 25-year member and current president of the Orinda Woman’s Club.
Tickets are $95 and available until Oct. 31 at www.orindawomansclub.org. There is still time to reserve your spot at the Festival of Trees and join the Orinda Woman’s Club in giving back this holiday season.
Adelie Reiner can be reached at adeliejala@gmail.com.
Sondra Landberg and Candy Kattenburg enjoying the 2022 Festival of Trees. This year Landberg is modeling in the fashion show.
