Event at Pasadena Hilton Raises $45,000 for At-Risk Youth
By Pasadena Independent
Published: Tuesday, December 15th, 2009
$45,000 was raised at the 57th annual Festival of Trees to benefit the treatment and education programs for at-risk youth served by Optimist Youth Homes & Family Services.
Held Dec. 6 at the Pasadena Hilton, the fundraiser, emceed by television anchor Rich Chambers and chaired by Dee Gadbury, president of the Santa Clarita Valley Optimist Club, featured dozens of elaborately decorated Christmas trees sponsored by Optimist and Opti-Mrs. Clubs, businesses and individuals.
An accompanying fashion show produced by Connie Gushwa, president of the Optimist Club of Simi Valley and Julie Eaton, who co-emceed the show with Kate Linder, star of the popular daytime drama “The Young and the Restless” was a hit. Clothing for the show was provided by A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz of Pasadena, Alayna’s Bridal and Formals of Camarillo and Pair of Wings of Ventura County. The “Back on Track” singers provided additional entertainment.
Since its inception in 1952, the event has raised almost $700,000 to support the Home’s programs and services, mostly coming from Optimist Clubs from throughout the greater Los Angeles area. Based in Highland Park, Optimist Youth Homes & Family Services provides comprehensive mental health treatment, specialized education and support services to 500 abused and neglected youth and their families each day.
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