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Autumn Reflections 2010 presents ‘Nights on Broadway’
The annual fundraising dinner for Thomas House was held on September 26th at the beautiful Turnip Rose Grand Newport Plaza. The theme for this year’s event was ‘Nights on Broadway’.
Guests were entertained during cocktail hour and the silent auction by a Jazz Quartet from Chapman University playing hits from popular Broadway musicals. The evening festivities started with the presentation of the American flag by Orange County Fire Authority, Captain Chris Leonard and the Star Spangled Banner song by Sara Remley.
The evening was hosted by Liam Van Dorn in his debut performance as Master of Caremonies. Sara Remley and Kendall Mauvezin of Kids Next Door performed songs from Broadway musicals, Beauty and the Beast, Wicked and Once on This Island.
There was a special tribute to founder Bernie Selz for his many years of dedication, leadership and love for the families of Thomas House. Sister Kathy Stein spoke of Bernie’s strength and compassion. Another long time friend and supporter of Bernie and Thomas House, John Blair, spoke of the history and love that built the foundation for Thomas House.
Ray and Beth San Vicente were recognized with the “Partnership Award” for their years of dedication and service on numerous committees, including Facilities Committee, Embrace, Autumn Reflections, Walk-a-thon and as long standing Board Members. Many thanks to Ray and Beth for their many many years of support and service.
Tom Orbe, kicked the evening into high gear for the Live Auction where lucky guests were able to bid on 5 day vacations. Dinner and tour of Orange County Firehouse, Boat rides and a Commissioned Painting by artist, Pat Roberts, Passes to Disneyland with dinner at famous Club 33.
The fundraiser would not have been such a success without the generosity of our sponsors. Our Platinum sponsors were Mr. David Ascher, and John & Christina Blair. Our Gold sponsors were John & Anne Fraher and Robert & Teresa Quick. Silver sponsors included Carl & Betsy Scherz and the Sisters of St. Joseph Carondelet.
A special thank you to all of our guests for the evening, without you the mission of Thomas House would not be possible.
Committee chairs Tracy Bejotte, Betty Leonard and Mary Van Dorn were supported by a wonderful committee including Danielle Barlow, Tania Chavez, Cathy Kirkeby, Dolly Lewis, Diane Logan, Wendy Lotts, Allison Mauvezin, Mark Michels, Sheila Michels, Daisy Nguyen, Peggy Recktenwald, Kelly Roberts and Pat Roberts.
And final thanks to local teen volunteers, Carissa and Sean Essex, Bill Heisler and Kyle Thompson that were on hand to act as ushers and runners assisting in the coordination of the event.
October 25th, 2009
Autumn Reflections – 2009!
For 22 years Thomas House Shelter has provided a safe, loving and supportive environment for the children of the families supported by the shelter. These children are now young adults confident, productive, establishing careers, families and continuing on with their education. They represent the outcome of hard work and dedication supported by the mission of TH; to give endless possibilities to the children. Four graduates were chosen to be honored the night of the event.
With a theme in place a new venue and day were chosen for Autumn Reflections. The event took place on Sunday, October 25th at the beautiful Turnip Rose Grand Newport Plaza. The crowd of over 160 guests loved the elegant setting. The evening was emceed by Dan Walsh, auctioneer extrodinaire of Orange County. Dan’s expert handling of the bidding added to the excitement and fun of the evening. A Jazz combo from Chapman College added energy and gaiety to the cocktail hour and silent auction.
Special moments during the evening were the testimonies from the young adults of TH. They shared with the audience their stories of how TH gave them courage to believe in themselves to pursue their dreams and goals.
The board of directors introduced a new award this year, the “Partnership Award”. Sister Kathy Stein, executive Director of Thomas House, introduced this year’s recipients, Madeline Lewis and Dan DiMarino. They were recognized for their many years of dedication and service to Thomas House.
The fundraiser could not be a success without the generosity of the following: Presenting Sponsor, Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet, Double Platinum Sponsor, David S Ascher, M.D. Charitable Fund, Platinum Sponsors, Teresa and Robert Quick, Anne and John Fraher
A thank you to the Autumn Reflections committee of Mary Ann Colclough, Kay McDonald, Linda Campanelle, Pat Roberts, Diane Logan, Mark and Sheila Michels, Barbara Trulson, Barb Orbe,Peggy Rectenwald, MaryVanDorn, Tracy Bejotte, Bonita Carr, Kelly Roberts, Kathy Kilgallen and Dolly Lewis for a very successful and fun event.
A special thank you to all of the attendees who believe that all “possibilities are endless” for the children of TH.
March 29th, 2009
CELEBRATING WALK-A-THON 2009!
On Sunday, March 29, 2009, hundred of friends of Thomas House gathered at Mile Square Park to celebrate Walk-A-Thon 2009. The goal of the event was to support the shelter in its continuing mission of providing services for homeless families in Orange County.
Guy Carrozzo, mayor of Fountain Valley, welcomed the participants and gave an inspirational speech to begin the walk. As Boy Scout Troop 412 carried the flag, participants, volunteers, children in strollers, and even a few pet dogs walked laps around the lake. Afterwards walkers were treated to Starbucks coffee, snacks, chili-cheese dogs, and refreshing beverages. Dozens of prizes were awarded and many young faces were painted by the Volunteer Clowns of Orange County.
Executive Director Sister Kathy Stein thanked the walkers on behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, and families of Thomas House. She also accepted a $1,000 check from the Garden Grove Firefighters IAFF Local 2005. Other groups receiving recognition as presenting sponsors (donations of $1000 or more) were Lawrence Elementary School, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, Sam’s Club #6627, and the Law Offices of John L. Michels. Key Club, KIWIN, and other volunteers representing 15 high schools assisted throughout the day and shared their spirit of service and youthful enthusiasm.
Walk-A-Thon chairpersons, Mark and Sheila Michels, thank their outstanding planning committee and all those who contributed to the success of this Celebration in the Park. Thanks to all of you, Walk-A-Thon 2009 raised over $20,000 for Thomas House.
Plan now to be a part of Walk-A-Thon 2010 next spring!
January 26th, 2009
Women’s Auxiliary
Our newly formed Women’s Auxiliary recently held it’s second tea at the
lovely home of Patty Gallivan in Newport Beach. Many eager new faces
were in attendance to learn more about Thomas House Temporary Shelter
and the many opportunities for involvement.
This group of energetic and creative women will have their first official Women’s Auxiliary meeting in mid-January with its focus on new fund- raising endeavors, hands on activities at the shelter when called upon by staff and sharing the mission of Thomas House Temporary Shelter with their family, friends, neighbors and business associates!
Donna Lucchino kindly stepped forward to lead this lively group of women
in their first official year! Anyone interested in learning more about Thomas
House Temporary Shelter’s Women’s Auxiliary can contact Charlotte Governale at 714/265-0640.
Oct. 18th, 2008
5th Annual Autumn Reflections Fundraiser
This wonderful event, celebrating Thomas House’s twenty-one years of service, was held Saturday, October 18 at the prestigious 100-year-old Santa Ana Country Club. Thanks to Barb and Tom Orbe for making these arrangements again this year. Click here to read more...
May 15th, 2008
2nd Annual Thomas House Temporary Shelter: Charity Golf Tournament
Good News! Thomas House Temporary Shelter had another incredible golf tournament!
The tournament was held at the beautiful and challenging Tustin
Ranch Golf Club on May 15. It kicked-off at 1 pm and ended with
a western barbeque dinner and awards presentation. There were 66
paid golfers, an increase over last year, who enjoyed the links
and great California weather. Click here to read more...
A tea was held recently in the in the lovely home of Beth San Vicente to familiarize prospective guests with the newly formed Thomas House Temporary Shelter Women's Auxiliary. The purpose of this group is to support Thomas House and its fund-raising endeavors and to participate in hands-on activities at the shelter.
The new auxiliary welcomes all women who are interested in Thomas
House and its mission. For additional information, please contact
Charlotte Governale at 714-265-0640 or charlotte@thomashouseshelter.org
July 28, 2007
Garden Grove Shelter Marks 20 Years
By Blythe Bernhard, The Orange County Register
Click here to read the article.
July 22, 2007
20th Anniversary Celebrated
Twenty years ago, Mary and Bernie Selz with one magnanimous thought, changed the lives of hundreds of people in Garden Grove and the surrounding areas. Click here to read more...
"The children's program is cool - Now I have a place to do my homework and someone to help me...and I have my homework done when I go to school. I like the computers and snacks too.”
- AThomas House Child Resident