Las Candelas celebrated the end of summer and the beginning of a new season of philanthropic work on Sunday, Sept. 17 at Oakmont Country Club. The event was held in honor of outgoing president Ellyn Semler and incoming president Nancy Stone. Cocktails and appetizers were enjoyed “On the Green” and a dinner of salmon and tri-tip roast was served on the Terrace Patio. About 60 people attended the event, including members and spouses or partners.

Outgoing president Semler thanked the members who supported her and the Las Candelas projects during her two-year tenure. Semler will be serving as the group’s parliamentarian during the 2017-18 year. Incoming president Nancy Stone said she looks forward to working with the members and plans to introduce a new website for the organization. New provisional member Suzonne Slaughter of Glendale was welcomed to Las Candelas.

Las Candelas is an organization of about 40 women whose purpose is to give volunteer service and financial assistance to help improve the lives of children and youth in vulnerable situations and to support awareness of their mental health needs. Members currently volunteer at Hillsides Education Center in Pasadena, Hathaway-Sycamores Family Service in Altadena and Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services in Glendale. Las Candelas also gives financial support to Didi Hirsch, Ascencia, Glendale YWCA-Domestic Violence Shelter and Hillside’s Youth Moving On program.

A biennial luncheon/fashion show benefit has been held since 1957 to support the philanthropic activities of Las Candelas. The elegant event, typically attended by over 600 guests, will next be held on March 4, 2018 at the Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel. The event now includes a stunning fashion show, a delicious luncheon, a grand boutique featuring the finest vendors and a drawing for prizes all valued over $800.

For more information about Las Candelas or the upcoming benefit, contact Press Chair Cathy Keen at (818) 240-2442.

  Cathy Keen