Home of Guiding Hands

36th Annual Gala

"Explore - Quest for the Forbidden Temple"

Raises $94,000

Honoring Ann & Don Walker

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Loews Coronado Bay Resort

5:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Presented by Grossmont Healthcare District

Guests and sponsors of the 36th Annual Heart & Hand Gala rallied for San Diegans with developmental disabilities on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010 by raising more than $94,000 for Home of Guiding Hands (HGH).  Home of Guiding Hands operates 28 homes throughout San Diego County for adults with autism, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy and provides respite and a variety of support programs for children and adults; it is one of the oldest agencies serving people with developmental disabilities in the region.

Longtime supporter Grossmont Healthcare District presented the gala, held at Loews Coronado Bay Resort, which featured an “Explore-Quest for the Forbidden Temple” theme. With the generosity of American Airlines, attendees were given an opportunity to become world travelers and explore the sights and sounds from around the world.

Rachel Carney, HGH Events Coordinator proclaimed, “You could feel the excitement in the air and it was obvious how much fun guests were having. It’s amazing when you can celebrate with friends and family, while raising much needed funds for such a wonderful organization. The evening was a true success.”

Flamenco music played by guitarists Mark LeSage and Scot Taberin provided the perfect ambiance while guests  collected valuables at the treasure chest, looked into their future by having their palms read, and bid on exciting auction packages. Performances by dancers “The Shimmy Sisters,” representing the Middle East, and Sininho Samba, a drum and dance group, added to the excitement of the evening.

"We were so pleased to see so many old friends and new faces, even in a tough economy it shows that people will support the causes they believe in," said Rick Doremus, board chair.
Music was provided by perennial favorites The Heroes; special guest Carol LeBeau acted as Mistress of Ceremonies.

Longtime HGH friends and supporters Ann and Don Walker were recognized during the program as the 2010 Gala Honorees. Carol A. Fitzgibbons, HGH Executive Director praised the Walkers: “Ann and Don give all of us memorable examples of what is meant by caring, loving and supporting others. We were so pleased to honor them and their family.” A special video created by their grandson Jason Walker highlighted their lives and dedication to their community over the years. 
Presenting sponsor Grossmont Healthcare District was also recognized for its generosity to Home of Guiding Hands.Throughout the years, it has donated more than $695,000 to help improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities  and their families. Ms. Gloria Chadwick, President of the district board, accepted a plaque in recognition of their continued support.

Other major sponsors included: Heramb Charitable Foundation and Doris Heramb, The Stephen and Lynne Doyle Family Foundation, Union Bank, Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, Barona Band of Mission Indians, BIA Cares, Wells Fargo Bank, Quick Dry Flood Services, San Diego County Credit Union, and Delsen and Company LLP.

HGH also recognized the gracious support of American Airlines, Southwinds Travel & Tours, Nannai Beach Resort, Tourplans Viagens e Tourismo, Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort Riviera Maya, Cancun Mexico, Americas Travel,

W Santiago Hotel and Concha y Toro Vineyards.

“The 2010 Gala Committee worked so hard in bringing this event together. The evening was such a success because everyone contributed in their own unique way and was so devoted to the cause. The organization is so fortunate to have such dedicated volunteers,” stated Rachel Carney, HGH Event Coordinator.

The 2010 Ball was co-chaired by Ariana Heramb Schuh and Kira Heramb.

Committee members were: Yvonne Bloom, Marcy Blumberg, Sherry Delsen, Lynne Doyle, Gail Glutting, Sharon Gray, Lora Heramb, Susan Lomas, Debby McDowell, Ericka Moody, Luis Nunez, Marsha Nunez, and Ralleen Ratzlaff.   Also serving on the committee were HGH Board of Directors Susan Fike and Randy Rundle

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