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May 31, 2010 - Parca Auxiliary’s “Gathering On The Green” Bowls Over the Crowd

January 13th, 2010 - BURLINGAME, CA

May 26, 2009 - Parca Auxiliary's “Cirque De Mai” Spring Luncheon & Fashion Show

Cirque de Mai
Gentry Magazine, Summer 2009 · Go to page 108
http://mydigimag.rrd.com/publication/?i=19959

Parca raises money in style
The Daily Journal, June 1, 2009
http://www.smdailyjournal.com/article_preview.php?type=lifestyle&id=111072

June 10, 2009 - Ladies who Lunch
California Home & Design · Design for Good
http://www.chdmag.com/event/ladies-who-lunch

April 6, 2009 - The Parca Auxiliary proudly announces Cirque de Mai

January 8, 2009 - “Following the huge success of the Parca Auxiliary’s Spring Luncheon”

May 22, 2008 - “Celebrating 20 Years Of Goodwill, Growth & Gratitude”

Parca Auxiliary
-NEWS ALERT-
May 31, 2010
CLICK HERE FOR PDF VERSION

HILLSBOROUGH, CA · MAY 31, 2010 – Close to 400 Peninsula-based women came out to celebrate the Parca Auxiliary’s 22nd Annual Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show.  Combining high fashion and fabulous food, the community rallied once again to raise close to $185,000 for Parca Organization, a non-profit association serving people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.

This year’s event, with it’s whimsical lawn-sports theme, brought the community together at a beautiful private estate in Hillsborough where the crowd socialized, bid on fabulous auction packages and was entertained by a sophisticated fashion show featuring the latest styles from Tory Burch and a men’s collection from Wilkes Bashford.

Enthusiastic Giving
Despite the tough economic climate, attendees bid aggressively throughout the live auction and eagerly raised their paddles during “Fund-A-Need” to raise close to $24,000.  These much needed funds will go towards combating the harmful impact of budget cuts on vital support services.

The Joy Of Giving Back
Throughout an energetic and dynamic Live Auction, donors gave generously raising over $35,000.  One very happy bidder took home an adorable Goldendoodle puppy for over $3,700.  The Silent Auction brought in over $23,000 and one lucky lady was the winner of the raffle item: a $5,000 gift certificate generously donated by Steiners Jewelry!

Paige Meek, President of the Parca Auxiliary, welcomed guests and thanked everyone for attending the luncheon.  “Because of your kindness, generosity and continued support, we are able to provide much needed funds to Parca Org.  I am so proud to be a part of this great community.” She went on to honor Jennifer Bressie as Sustainer of the Year.

Honoring Those Who Give
In addition, Meek had the opportunity to present The Johnson Family, including Mr and Mrs Charles B. Johnson, Sarah Redlich and Jenny Bolt, with the Parca Angel Award.  The award is given to individuals or organizations in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Parca Auxiliary.

The Johnson Family’s support dates back 22 years when one of the Auxiliary’s first events was an evening gala hosted in the very same home as this year’s event.  The family has a strong history of hosting the luncheon: in 2005, the “All That Sparkles” luncheon was held on the architecturally rich Carolands estate and in 2007 and the “Fashion for a Cause” luncheon was just one of numerous events at the home of Sarah Redlich.

Diana Conti, Executive Director of Parca Organization, acknowledged the importance of the Auxiliary’s work.  She thanked everyone for their ongoing support and dedication to making a difference in the lives of Parca’s clients. “Now, more than ever, we need the community’s support.  Because of your generosity, we hope to continue to provide services to those with developmental disabilities so that they may live as independently as possible.  Parca is a lifeline for many of these families, giving them hope for a better future.”

She went on to introduce Debbie Lesser whose son Benjamin has been a recipient of Independent Living Skills (ILS) from Parca.  “The ILS skills that Ben has been learning are invaluable.  The real life skills and the tools that he is learning are helping him live as independently as possible.  It would be a tragedy for many families if these services were reduced due to budget cuts – our children need these services.”

Luncheon Co-Chairs Kate Parsons and Taryn Sutton were delighted with the success of the event. “Raising funds to improve the lives of those with developmental disabilities is a purpose that drives and inspires us all.  The funds raised today will make a real difference to Parca Org.  Working on this project has been a real honor for the entire team.”

Fabulous Fashions
The afternoon’s grand finale was a high-style fashion show featuring contemporary American sportswear from Tory Burch and a medley of refined men’s looks from Wilkes Bashford . Also featured throughout the morning was a mix of contemporary sportswear, athletic wear and childrens wear from some of the areas hottest boutiques including Hugo Boss, J'me, Les Deux Copins, LuLu Lemon and Baby Couture.  Professional hair and makeup was provided by DiDi salon.  

About Parca Organization
Parca Organization is a private, nonprofit association that serves people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.  Since its founding in 1952, Parca has been committed to providing opportunities for disabled people of all ages to help them experience choice, control and individuality in every aspect of their lives.  In addition to skills training for adults, Parca offers a range of residential programs, respite care for children and teens; childcare and recreational programs for children and support groups, information and referral services for families. 

About Parca Auxiliary
Founded in 1985, the Parca Auxiliary is a small group of Peninsula-based women dedicated to raising money and awareness for Parca Organization.  Every spring, the Auxiliary hosts a luncheon and fashion show that is the primary fundraiser for Parca Organization. The generous donations from the event’s sponsors and guests help contribute to the success of Parca’s clients throughout the year.  Over the last 12 years, the Parca Auxiliary has raised over $1 million.

For more information, please contact: Jordan Murray, Publicity Chair: 650 576 0382 or parcapr@yahoo.com

For more information about Parca, please contact: Diana Conti, Executive Director: 650 312 0730 or http://www.parca.org

Parca Auxiliary
-NEWS ALERT-
January 13, 2010

BURLINGAME, CA, January 13th, 2010 - Following the overwhelming success of the Parca Auxiliary’s Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show in May 2009, the Auxiliary continues to support the efforts of Parca, a private nonprofit organization serving individuals with developmental disabilities in the Bay Area.

Over the past few months, the Auxiliary, which is devoted to raising money and supporting awareness for Parca, has organized some festive and meaningful events for the clients of Parca Organization and has welcomed both a new board and a new provisional class. 

This past fall, the Auxiliary threw a festive Halloween party for Parca’s clients.  The party was held at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Day School which was decorated with children’s Halloween artwork, pumpkins, cobwebs and more.  The clients enjoyed a night of dinner and groovied to the tunes in their creative costumes.  In December, the Auxiliary is planning some holiday cheer when it’s members will come together as “Secret Santas” and distribute gifts to over 100 Parca clients.

In October, Paige Cattano passed the reigns to Paige Meek, the new President of the Parca Auxiliary and introduced the Board of Directors for 2009/10:

Paige Meek-President,  Julie Lev-President Elect, Kim Bottoms-VP Membership, Julie Ford-VP Membership, Tiffany Mills-VP Auction, Lizi Tabet-VP Auction, Agatha Precourt-VP Development, Kathy Savarese-VP Development, Kate Parsons-VP Events, Taryn Sutton-VP Events, Shawna Droese-VP Program Services, Jordan Murray-Publicity, Sara Palladino-Secretary, Lara McDonald-Database/RSVP’s, Becky Geller-Treasurer, Cara Dakin-Social Coordinator, Heather Krumins-Social Coordinator, Sarah Doll-Sustainer Liaison and Paige Cattano-Parliamentarian.

The Auxiliary also welcomed a talented and enthusiastic group of Provisional members:

Cappie Alverson-Fay,  Katie Amoroso,  Susan Benton, Liat Bishko, Rachael Bruins, Deborah Costigan, Jeannine Cranston, Lindsay Folk, Alexa Kappler,  Allison Keenan, Elaine Kendall, Lara Krpata, Tara Klein, Sharon Purewal, Carolyn Way and Jenny Vitro.

Currently, the Auxiliary is busy planning Gathering On The Green, this year’s Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show. The event will be held on Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at a private home in Hillsborough.  All funds raised will benefit the programs of Parca Organization. 

For more information, please contact: Jordan Murray, Publicity Chair, 650.652.9739, parcapr@yahoo.com For more information about Parca, please contact: Diana Conti, Executive Director, 650.312.0730, http://www.parca.org


Parca Auxiliary
-NEWS ALERT-
May 26, 2009

CLICK HERE FOR PDF VERSION

HILLSBOROUGH, CA, MAY 26, 2009 – On Wednesday, May 20, close to 400 Peninsula women stepped out in style to support the Parca Auxiliary’s 21st Annual Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show.  A huge success with donations totaling at least $140,000, the luncheon raised funds for Parca Organization, a non-profit association serving people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.

High fashion and fantastic fundraising was brought to Hillsborough with the “Cirque de Mai” event.  The spectacular event was held at a beautiful private home in Hillsborough where guests socialized in the sunshine, bid on fabulous auction packages and were entertained by circus mimes.  The highlight of the event was a sleek fashion show featuring guest designer Trina Turk who showcased her colorful and sophisticated fashions. Guests sat beneath an elegant white canopy at whimsically themed tables decorated with brightly colored linens and circus animal topiaries while enjoying a delicious lunch provided by St. Clair’s Catering.

Paige Cattano, President of the Parca Auxiliary, welcomed guests and thanked everyone for attending the luncheon. “I am so proud of this amazing community of women who are committed to enriching the lives of Parca clients especially during these challenging economic times” said Cattano.  She went on to honor Jane Jackson, one of the Auxiliary’s founders, as Sustainer of the Year.

Diana Conti, Executive Director of Parca Organization, acknowledged that with budget cuts, times are tough. She thanked everyone for their on-going support and dedication to making a difference in the lives of Parca’s developmentally disabled clients. “Because of your kindness, generosity and commitment, we can continue what we are doing at Parca,” said Conti.  She went on to introduce Jodi Murphy, the parent of a young man with Asperger Syndrome.  Parca has helped Murphy’s son make the transition into adulthood by working with him on social and independent living skills. Murphy said that “because of Parca, my son is ready to leave the nest and live independently.  Parca saw out-of-the-box for my between-the-cracks kid.”

The Masters of Ceremonies were Carolyn Johnson and Dan Noyes of ABC7 News. The dynamic pair encouraged guests to give generously during the Live Auction which raised over $45,000.  One excited bidder took home an adorable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel for $4,000! The Silent Auction which included fabulous catered parties, golf outings, shopping extravaganzas, and pampering packages brought in $31,000.  One lucky lady was the winner of the raffle item: a $5000 gift certificate generously donated by Steiner’s Jewelry.

The “Fund-A-Need” appeal raised close to $20,000 which will go to updating Raji House, a weekend out-of-home respite care program for children and teens with developmental disabilities ages 5-17. The funds will help make the home more safe and enjoyable for Parca’s youngest clients.  At Raji House, clients can participate in activities such as arts and crafts, music and movement, story time, outdoor games and field trips. 

The afternoon’s grand finale was a high-style fashion show featuring contemporary designer Trina Turk.  Turk’s colorful and bold patterns captured the fashion-forward crowd’s attention. Also featured were the latest trends of spring and summer fashion from the area’s hottest boutiques including Malouf’s, Les Deux Copines and J’me Boutique. Male and female models, styled by Didi’s Salon, strutted down the elevated stage to a fusion of Brazilian and hip-hop music, while wearing cutting-edge fashions ranging from casual to chic.

Luncheon Co-Chairs Julie Lev and Paige Meek were delighted with the success of the event. “The stars were aligned for this year’s luncheon, as the significant efforts of the Parca Auxiliary, the overwhelming generosity of our corporate sponsors and individual donors, special guest designer Trina Turk, and incredibly beautiful weather all converged to make this one of the most memorable luncheons in our 21 year history–all to benefit such an important cause,” said Lev.

The funds raised at today’s luncheon are a major component of Parca’s annual fundraising efforts, and are critical to Parca Organization’s ability to provide high-quality support and services to developmentally disabled adults and children.  This year, Parca is facing an estimated 10% reduction in funding from the state. The funds raised from the event will help keep all Parca programs operating in the face of state budget cuts which will directly impact families and their well being. The Fund-A-Need donations will go toward a much needed safety and cosmetic overhaul of Raji House. Funds will also be placed in the Courtney Jones Memorial Endowment, a long-term financial safety net for the operations for the Parca Organization. 

About Parca Organization
Parca Organization is a private, nonprofit association that serves people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.  Since its founding in 1952, Parca has been committed to providing opportunities for disabled people of all ages to help them experience choice, control and individuality in every area of their lives.  In addition to skills training for adults, Parca offers respite care for children and teens; childcare and recreational programs for children; and support groups, information and referral services for families.  Developmental disabilities include mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and other similar neurological disorders.

About Parca Auxiliary
Founded in 1985, the Parca Auxiliary is a small group of Peninsula-based women dedicated to raising money and awareness for Parca Organization.  Parca is a private, nonprofit association that serves people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.  Every spring, the Auxiliary hosts a luncheon and fashion show that is the primary fundraiser for Parca Organization.  The generous donations from the event’s sponsors and guests help contribute to the success of Parca’s clients throughout the year.  Over the last 11 years, the Parca Auxiliary has raised over $1 Million for Parca. Today, the Auxiliary consists of 66 Actives, 70 Sustainers and 14 Founding members.

For more information, please contact: Jordan Murray, Publicity Chair, 650.652.9739, parcapr@yahoo.com
For more information about Parca, please contact: Diana Conti, Executive Director, 650.312.0730,
http://www.parca.org


Parca Auxiliary
-NEWS ALERT-
April 6, 2009

CLICK HERE FOR PDF VERSION

BURLINGAME, CA, April 6, 2009 The Parca Auxiliary proudly announces Cirque de Mai, its annual Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show.  This year’s event will be held on Wednesday, May 20th in the lovely garden of a beautiful Hillsborough home.  After strolling in the garden, entertained by the whimsical sights and sounds of Le Cirque, guests will be invited to step into the colorful, Le Grand Chapiteau (the big tent). The Ringmaster will personally welcome them to sit, eat and enjoy the show.  As an infectious rhythm boldly plays in the background, the lights brighten, the red curtain opens and the fashion show begins! 

This year’s Fashion Show will be more exciting than ever. The Parca Auxiliary is thrilled to announce that contemporary designer Trina Turk will make a guest appearance and showcase her fashions in a special and extended segment in the Fashion Show.   The Parca Auxiliary and Trina Turk are taking fashion on the Peninsula to a whole new level.

Trina Turk, a West Coast native, launched her own fashion line in 1995. Inspired by the multicultural mix, architecture, and landscape of Los Angeles and California, The Trina Turk Collection is full of the Season’s most casually sophisticated and must have silhouettes.  Trina’s philosophy is to create wearable, optimistic fashion that incorporates the best aspects of classic American sportswear. Trina Turk has boutiques in Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Fashion Island and New York.  This spring she will be opening a new boutique on Burlingame Avenue.

Parca Organization is a private, nonprofit association that serves people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.  Since its founding in 1952, Parca has been committed to providing opportunities for disabled people of all ages to help them experience choice, control and individuality in every area of their lives.  In addition to skills training for adults, Parca offers respite care for children and teens; childcare and recreational programs for children; and support groups, information and referral services for families.  Developmental disabilities include mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and other similar neurological disorders.

Founded in 1985, the Parca Auxiliary is a small group of Peninsula-based women dedicated to raising money and awareness for Parca Organization.  Every spring, the Auxiliary hosts a luncheon and fashion show that is the primary fundraiser for Parca Organization.  The generous donations from the event’s sponsors and guests help contribute to the success of Parca’s clients throughout the year. 

For more information, please contact: Jordan Murray, Publicity Chair, 650.652.9739, parcapr@yahoo.com


Parca Auxiliary
-NEWS ALERT-
January 8, 2009
BURLINGAME, CA, January 8, 2009 – Following the huge success of the Parca Auxiliary’s Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show in May 2008, the Auxiliary has not slowed down.  The Auxiliary has organized some festive events for the clients of Parca Organization these past few months and welcomed a new board and provisional class. The Parca Auxiliary is devoted to raising money and awareness for Parca, a private nonprofit organization serving individuals with developmental disabilities, such as mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, and other similar neurological disorders.  Parca’s mission is to provide high-quality programs, services, and advocacy to children, adults, and families in the Bay Area. This past fall the Auxiliary threw a festive Halloween party for the clients of Parca Organization.  The party was held at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Day School which was decorated with children’s Halloween artwork, pumpkins, cobwebs and more.  The clients enjoyed a night of dinner and dancing, grooving to the tunes in their creative costumes.  In December, the Auxiliary brought some holiday cheer when they acted as “Secret Santas” and distributed gifts to 100 Parca clients.
In October, Amy Underwood passed the reigns to Paige Cattano, the new President of the Parca Auxiliary and introduced the Board of Directors for 2009.
2009 Parca Auxiliary Board of Directors: Paige Cattano-President, Shawna Droese-VP Membership, Lara McDonald-VP Membership, Erica Dameilo-VP Auction, Momoe Sasaki-VP Auction, Nicole Goligoski-VP Development, Julie Lev-VP Events, Paige Meek-VP Events, Ann Aristides-VP Program Services, Kim Bottoms-Publicity, Kate Parsons-Secretary, Anita Cole Wu-Database/RSVP’s, Becky Geller-Treasurer, Shannon Durnin-Social Coordinator, Jennifer Sanders-Social Coordinator, Terri Boesch-Sustainer Liaison and Amy Underwood-Parliamentarian.
The Auxiliary also welcomed a talented and enthusiastic group of Provisional members.
2009 Parca Auxiliary Provisional Class:  Paige Bacon, Stephanie Barada, Alice Chang, Ahnna Dudley, Tracy Eskenazi, Stefani Hood, Felice Kong, Tiffany Mills, Sara Palladino, Agatha Precourt, Cindy Rose Quackenbush, Kathy Savarese, Tish Scola, Adrienne Siegfried, Lizi Tabet and Gwen Taylor.
Currently, the Auxiliary is busy planning Cirque de Mai, this year’s Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show. The event will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2009 at a private home in Hillsborough.  All funds raised will benefit the programs of Parca Organization. 

For more information, please contact: Jordan Murray, Publicity Chair, 650.652.9739, parcapr@yahoo.com For more information about Parca, please contact: Diana Conti, Executive Director, 650.312.0730, http://www.parca.org


Parca Auxiliary
-NEWS ALERT-
May 22, 2008

CLICK HERE FOR PDF VERSION

PARCA AUXILIARY’S “CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF GOODWILL, GROWTH & GRATITUDE” SPRING LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW WAS A  STYLISH AND SUCCESSFUL AFFAIR TO REMEMBER
A Record $200,000 was Raised for the Developmentally Disabled

HILLSBOROUGH, CA, May 22, 2008 – Just over 400 Peninsula women stepped out in style to support the Parca Auxiliary’s 20th Annual Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show.  A huge success with donations totaling at least $200,000, the luncheon raised funds for Parca Organization, a non-profit association serving people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.

High fashion and fantastic fundraising was brought to Hillsborough with the “Celebrating 20 Years of Goodwill, Growth & Gratitude” event.  The sold-out luncheon was held at a beautiful private home in Hillsborough with glorious gardens. The centerpiece of the luncheon setting was a sleek runway reminiscent of a New York Fashion Show.  Guests sat beneath an elegant white canopy at garden-themed tables decorated with pink peonies and chartreuse green spring flowers, and silk butterflies adorned the centerpieces and chairs. Guests dined on a delicious lunch provided by St. Clair’s Catering.

Amy Underwood, President of the Parca Auxiliary, welcomed guests and thanked everyone for attending the luncheon.  “I am so proud of this amazing group of women who are committed to enriching the lives of Parca clients both through fundraising activities as well as organizing special events for the clients throughout the year” said Underwood.  She went on to honor Barbara Brown, one of the Auxiliary’s founders, and Jennifer Brown Moriarty as Sustainers of the Year.

The Masters of Ceremonies were Carolyn Johnson, Anchor of the ABC7 News, and Chris Kruse, a Hillsborough resident.  The dynamic pair encouraged guests to give generously during the Live Auction which raised over $72,000.  One lucky bidder won an exotic vacation for $12,000!  The Silent Auction which included fabulous catered dinners and parties, wine country getaways, golf outings, shopping extravaganzas, and pampering packages brought in $25,555.

The “Fund-A-Need” appeal brought in $25,905 for a new, large passenger van which will be used for all Parca programs and residences.  There are several Parca clients who are immobile or in wheelchairs, and the new van will enable the adults to be transported to their jobs and other outings; and younger clients at Raji House will be able to ride in the van to field trips.

A cake auction also captured everyone’s sweet side.  Three beautiful cakes and a cupcake tower from local bakeries brought in $2,200.   One lucky guest was the winner of the raffle item: a dazzling pair of pave diamond hoop earrings.  Generously donated by Steiner’s Jewelry, these elegant platinum earrings contain approximately 1.9 carats of diamonds.

The afternoon’s grand finale was a high style fashion show featuring the latest trends of spring and summer fashion from Burlingame’s hottest boutiques including Malouf’s, Les Deux Copines, Loft, Fina, Lulu Boutique and Head Over Heels.  Male and female models, styled by Wowpretty and the Chapin Court Salon, strutted down the elevated stage to funky, hip music, while wearing cutting-edge fashions ranging from casual to chic, eventually bringing the fashion forward crowd to their feet with applause.

Luncheon Co-Chairs Paige Cattano and Carolyn McCusker were delighted with the success of the event. "We are thrilled to be celebrating the 20th year anniversary of the Auxiliary. We have amazing founders who have created a legacy that we are proud to continue. Raising funds for developmentally disabled adults and children served by the Parca Organization is a purpose that inspires all of us. We are confident that the proceeds from this annual fundraiser change their lives for the better, and in return, our lives are enriched because we have made a difference in our community," said McCusker.

Diana Conti, Executive Director of Parca Organization, thanked everyone for their dedication to making a difference in the lives of Parca Organization’s developmentally disabled clients. “Because of all of you, all of the people in San Mateo County who have developmental disabilities that need community support systems are able to receive that support so that they may live as independently as possible,” said Conti.  She went on to introduce a mother and her child who is developmentally disabled. Judy Brown and her daughter Ionella shared their inspiring and moving story. “Parca has made a huge difference in our life.  Parca is the lifeline for our children and gives hope, one to one, now and for the future,” said Brown.  

The funds raised at the luncheon will benefit three critical areas of the Parca Organization:  All Fund-A-Need donations will be used towards the purchase of a new passenger van. The Family Support Services program which offers a variety of services to adults and children with developmental disabilities and their families will benefit.  Funds will also be allocated to the Courtney Jones Memorial Endowment, a long-term financial safety net for the operations of Parca Organization.

About Parca Organization
Parca Organization is a private, nonprofit association that serves people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.  Since its founding in 1952, Parca has been committed to providing opportunities for disabled people of all ages to help them experience choice, control and individuality in every area of their lives.  In addition to skills training for adults, Parca offers respite care for children and teens; childcare and recreational programs for children; and support groups, information and referral services for families.  Developmental disabilities include mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and other similar neurological disorders.

About Parca Auxiliary
Founded in 1985, the Parca Auxiliary is a small group of Peninsula-based women dedicated to raising money and awareness for Parca Organization.  Parca is a private, nonprofit association that serves people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.  Every spring, the Auxiliary hosts a luncheon and fashion show that is the primary fundraiser for Parca Organization.  The generous donations from the event’s sponsors and guests help contribute to the success of Parca’s clients throughout the year.  Today, the Auxiliary consists of 54 Actives, 11 Provisionals, 68 Sustainers and 14 Founding members.

For more information, please contact: Jordan Murray, Publicity Chair, 650.652.9739, parcapr@yahoo.com

For more information about Parca, please contact: Diana Conti, Executive Director, 650.312.0730, http://www.parca.org


Parca Auxiliary
---NEWS ALERT---
December 18, 2007

BURLINGAME, CA, December 18, 2007 - After the huge success of the Parca Auxiliary’s Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show in May 2007, the Auxiliary has not slowed down.  The Auxiliary has organized some festive events for the clients of Parca Organization these past few months and welcomed a new board and provisional class. 

The Parca Auxiliary is devoted to raising money and awareness for Parca Organization, a private non-profit group providing programs and services to people with developmental disabilities, and their families, in the Bay Area.

  • This past fall the Auxiliary members threw a “spooktacular” Halloween party for the clients of Parca Organization.  The party was held at St. Matthew’s Episcopal School which was decorated with children’s Halloween artwork, pumpkins, cobwebs and more.  The clients enjoyed a night of dinner and dancing, grooving to the tunes in their costumes.  In December, the Auxiliary brought some holiday cheer to the Parca clients when they decorated the Alameda House, one of the Parca Organization’s residence homes. The Auxiliary also acted as “Secret Santas” and distributed gifts to the Parca clients.
The first two photos are of the 2008 Auxiliary Provisional Class decorating the Alameda House. The third photo is of Amy Underwood-President and Paige Meek-VP Program Services, with the Secret Santa gifts for the Parca clients.


  • In October, Paige Burns passed the reigns to Amy Underwood, the new President of the Parca Auxiliary and introduced the Board of Directors for 2008.
2008 Parca Auxiliary Board of Directors (as shown in attached photograph from left to right): Back Row: Paige Meek-VP Program Services, Julie Lev-Social Coordinator, Paige Cattano-VP Events, Paige Burns-Parliamentarian, Keara Meyercord-VP Membership.  Middle Row: Lara McDonald-VP Auction, Carolyn McCusker-VP Events, Ann Aristides-Treasurer, Amelia Nash-Secretary.  Front Row: Suzy Lester-VP Membership, Kim Bottoms-Publicity, Paige Farsad-Sustainer Liaison, Amy Underwood-President.  Not pictured: Vicky Jones-Sustainer Liaison, Nicole Goligoski-VP Development, Anita Cole Wu-Database/RSVPs.
  • The Auxiliary also welcomed a talented and enthusiastic group of Provisional members.
2008 Auxiliary Provisional Class (as shown in attached photograph from left to right): Barrie Mengarelli, Momoe Sasaki, Elaine Breeze, Kristen Dumont Brent, Cara Dakin, Brenda Montes-Esposito, Shannon Durnin, Heather Krumins, Jennifer Sanders.  Not pictured: Jenifer Smyth, Melissa Coleman.
  • Currently, the Auxiliary is busy planning this year’s luncheon which will mark the 20th anniversary.  The theme is “A Garden Party – Celebrating 20 Years of Goodwill, Growth & Gratitude” and is sure to be a special and elegant runway event.  The luncheon will be held May 21, 2008 at the Hillsborough estate of Lisa Miller, the Auxiliary’s first president. The home was built in 1914 and has beautiful formal gardens which will provide the perfect backdrop for the event.  All funds raised will benefit the programs of Parca Organization.

For more information about Parca Auxiliary, please contact:
Jordan Murray, Publicity, parcapr@yahoo.com · 650.652.9739 · www.parca.org/Auxiliary.html
For more information about Parca Organization, please contact:
Diana Conti, Executive Director, 650.312.0730 · www.parca.org


Parca Auxiliary
---NEWS ALERT---
September 25, 2007

CLICK HERE FOR PDF VERSION

PARCA AUXILIARY PRESENTS RECORD BREAKING CHECK
TO PARCA ORGANIZATION AND
“PARCA’S ANGEL AWARD” TO COTCHETT, PITRE, & MCCARTHY

HILLSBOROUGH, CA, September 25, 2007–   Parca Auxiliary presented a check for $190,000 to Parca Organization, a private, nonprofit association that serves people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.  The Auxiliary also honored the law firm, Cotchett, Pitre,& McCarthy, with “Parca’s Angel Award”.

Auxiliary President Paige Burns presented the largest check to date to the Executive Director of Parca Organization, Diana Conti.  The record breaking funds were generated at Parca Auxiliary’s 19th Annual 2007 Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show, held in May at the Hillsborough estate of Chris and Sarah Redlich.  Conti was absolutely thrilled with the generous donation and emphasized what a difference this will make for Parca clients.  The proceeds will be allocated as follows:  $75,000 to the Parca Organization operating budget, $25,000 to the “Courtney Jones Memorial Endowment”, $75,000 towards paying off mortgages of Parca facilities and $15,000 will be used for Fund-A-Need” emergencies.

At the same Parca Auxiliary meeting, the Auxiliary presented “Parca’s Angel Award” to the Law Firm of Cotchett, Pitre, and McCarthy.  The firm had donated a check of $115,000 to Parca Organization, proceeds from a portion of unclaimed settlements left over from a class action lawsuit.  Mark Molumphy and Neil Swartzberg accepted the award on behalf of Cotchett, Pitre, and McCarthy.  This award was newly created for Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy in recognition of the firm’s generous donation.  Mark Molumphy expressed hope that other law firms and companies will be encouraged to give back to the community with this example.


Parca Auxiliary President, Paige Burns presenting check to
Parca Executive Director, Diana Conti


Paige Burns presenting the Parca’s Angel Award” award
to the Law Firm of Cotchett, Pitre, and McCarthy
representatives Mark Molumphy and Neil Swartzberg.

For more information about Parca Auxiliary, please contact: Jordan Murray, Publicity, parcapr@yahoo.com · 650.652.9739 · www.parca.org/Auxiliary.html
For more information about Parca Organization, please contact: Diana Conti, Executive Director, 650.312.0730 · www.parca.org

CLICK HERE FOR PDF VERSION


Parca Auxiliary
---NEWS ALERT---
May 23, 2007

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PARCA AUXILIARY’S “IN STYLE WITH PARCA” SPRING LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW WAS A  STYLISH AND SUCCESSFUL AFFAIR TO REMEMBER
A Record $195,000 was Raised for the Developmentally Disabled.

HILLSBOROUGH, CA, May 23, 2007 – Close to 400 Peninsula women stepped out in style to support the Parca Auxiliary’s 19th annual Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show.  A huge success with donations totaling at least $195,000, the luncheon raised funds for Parca Organization, a non-profit association serving people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area.

High fashion and fantastic fundraising was brought to Hillsborough with the “In Style with Parca – Fashion for a Cause” event.  The sold-out luncheon was held at the Hillsborough estate of Chris and Sarah Redlich, an elegant French Country Revivalist home which overlooks the Burlingame Country Club golf course.  The centerpiece of the luncheon setting was a sleek runway reminiscent of a New York Fashion Show.  Guests sat beneath an elegant white canopy at long linear tables which flanked either side of the runway, and dined on a fabulous lunch provided by St. Claire’s Catering.

Professional auctioneer Nuri Otis encouraged guests to give generously during the Live Auction which raised over $47,500 and the “Fund-a-Need” appeal, which brought in close to $25,000 for Parca’s Emergency Needs Fund.  Live Auction items included an adorable Golden Retriever puppy that sold for $3000, Los Angeles and New York getaway trips raised $11,500, and seven nights at your choice of a fabulous Exclusive Resorts vacation home brought in an outstanding $10,000.  The Silent Auction which included fabulous catered dinners and parties, wine country getaways, a Fleet Week Chris Craft Cruise raised $30,000.

The afternoon’s grand finale was a Milan-caliber fashion show featuring the latest trends of spring and summer fashion from Burlingame’s own Malouf’s, Les Deux Copines, Loft, Fina, Sunglass Hut and All that Glitters.  Male and Female models strutted down the elevated stage to funky, hip music, while wearing cutting-edge fashions ranging from casual to chic, eventually bringing the fashion forward crowd to their feet with applause.

Co-chairs Caroline Low and Tera Gilmartin were delighted with the success of the event.

“It is very satisfying to see such a consistently high level of support from our community, and it is truly gratifying to see so much collaborative hard work pay off for this wonderful cause,”  said Low.

Diana Conti, Executive Director of Parca Organization, thanked the Auxiliary for their dedication to making a difference in the lives of Parca Organization’s developmentally disabled clients.  She went on to share a heartwarming letter from a mother of a child with Down syndrome who participates in REACH, Parca’s after school child care program.  “This program has given our five year old son the opportunity to lead a happy, healthy and fulfilling life” read Conti.

The majority of the proceeds from the luncheon will benefit Family Support Services, a resource for parents offering support, advocacy and information from the moment they learn they will have a baby with disabilities.  The remaining proceeds raised will be placed in the Courtney Jones Memorial Endowment, a long-term financial safety net for the operations of the Parca Organization.

Additional fundraising efforts consisted of a raffle of three fashionable items including a diamond and gold bracelet graciously donated by Steiner’s Jewelry, the luncheon ticket price of $125 per person, and a separate solicitation letter for individual donors prior to the event.  In early May a  “High Donor Cocktail Party” featuring Colleen Quen Couture was held at the Redlich estate for the individuals who donated $1,700 or more.

At the luncheon, Lani Pringle was honored as Sustainer of the Year and Angela Rohde was honored as Active of the Year. “I am so proud of the sixty-four Auxiliary members who are committed to enriching the lives of Parca clients both through fundraising activities as well as organizing holiday celebrations for the clients throughout the year” said President Paige Burns.