“Give light and people will find the way.”
– Ella Baker
On an illuminating evening on May 6th at Old Ranch Country Club, more than 170 guests gathered to honor The Guidance Center and celebrate our organization, staff, and clients. Sponsors and guests helped raise a remarkable $180,844. Their generous support ensures that we continue to provide vital mental health services to our community’s most disadvantaged children and families.
The theme of this year’s Sunset Sip event was “Ignite Your Light”, and it certainly lived up to its name. The evening was filled with warmth, laughter, and an overwhelming sense of community spirit that left all attendees feeling inspired and energized.
During the cocktail reception, guests mingled together while also competing over silent auction items and listening to special remarks from Sunset Sip event chairwoman Betsy Snare, who spoke about the meaningful work of The Guidance Center and the importance of advocacy in our community.
Following a delightful reception filled with lively conversations and competition, guests enjoyed a scrumptios three-course dinner with wine graciously donated by various exquisite wineries.
Later, guests raised their paddles in a raucous round of friendly competitive bidding during the live auction which included exotic getaways and unique one-of-a-kind experiences.
The highlight of the evening was hearing from Maria, a client of The Guidance Center. A remarkable and brave young woman, Maria inspired guests with her story of overcoming challenges she faced as a young person. Before coming to The Guidance Center, Maria struggled with intense emotions due to traumatic childhood experiences that led to harmful behavior to herself and others. With the help of her therapists Arely and Michleen, Maria worked hard to process difficult feelings and learned various skills to help her navigate and overcome the challenges she has endured. Her story left guests reminded of the resilience of the human spirit.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Sunset Sip Event Committee, with special gratitude to Committee Chairwoman Betsy Snare and the Guidance Center Board of Directors, for their unwavering support throughout our most trying moments. We are deeply grateful for all of you. Your kindness and generosity have been a beacon of light through the darkest times.
“At The Guidance Center, we help children and families struggling with mental illness, trauma, and abuse to find their light. By embracing their inner light, they overcome challenges, heal, and move toward happier and healthier lives. Thank you for joining us at Sunset Sip this year. With your generous support, we will continue to help ignite the light of hope for the children and families we serve.”
– Patricia Costales, LCSW, CEO
Make sure to check out our Sunset Sip 2023 Digital Tribute Book for more event highlights, photos, sponsor messages and more! Head on over to our Facebook page to see the full album of photos from event night and don’t forget to like, comment and share!