On Sunday, May 22nd,  a group of Wells Bring Hope’s most loyal LA-based supporters gathered at the home of founder and president Barbara Goldberg for a donor appreciation brunch.

Our incredible volunteers kept the mimosas and bloody marys flowing as donors and board members enjoyed the freshest bagels in town, courtesy of Western Bagel, along with a variety of cream cheeses, and lox, of course. To satisfy our sweet teeth, scrumptious pastries were on the table, along with a special fruit salad courtesy of board members, David Girard and Eduardo Robles, who were part of the organizing team and did an outstanding job!

 

It was a glorious sunny day as we gathered on the lawn of the Japanese garden. Once guests had a chance to mix, mingle, eat and drink, Barbara formally welcomed them and expressed our deep appreciation for supporting our cause, especially those who had been with us since the very beginning. She also introduced WBH’s valued board members.

 

Barbara reminded everyone that we are trying to complete funding of our fourth health clinic water project, at a cost of $50,000, and serving 8,000-10,000 people. The campaign was kicked off at the beginning of the year by a generous gift from Sukey and Gil Garcetti’s family foundation and we hope to complete the project by October.

Barbara announced the completion of WBH’s 4th Ambassadors Program to teach high school students about community outreach. Three former Ambassadors, Anique Wertheimer, Kiley and Avery Globerman were introduced. A 5th program will start in mid-August. Finally, board member, Dr. Lene Martin, who teaches blockchain technology at Pepperdine University, told us about a project that her students have undertaken. It involves using Gil’s photos to develop NFTs (non-fungible tokens) that can be monetized to help generate funds for Wells Bring Hope.

To close things out, Barbara’s granddaughter, Lia McCluskey, announced the winning numbers in a free raffle with prizes that included handmade leather goods and bracelets from Niger, along with Wells Bring Hope branded mugs, t-shirts and hats. There were lots of winners!!

 

We look forward to seeing everyone at our annual fundraiser on September 18th at the home of Carol and Howie Cohen who were also in attendance!! A big thanks to everyone who joined us and to our incredible volunteers for making it a very special day.