Now in its second decade, Soroptimist’s Classy Bag Luncheon and Auction continues to be the Santa Clara charity event of the year, drawing more guests every year and raising hefty sums to support Soroptimists’ charitable programs. In honor of the service club’s record, State Senator Aisha Wahab presented the club with a plaque of recognition from the state legislature at the April 26 event.
The annual event is sponsored by Soroptimists International Santa Clara Silicon Valley (SISCSV) and features designer or classic bags packed with gifts: from wine to gift cards to sports tickets to jewelry. In addition to the auction, there were raffle prizes, a silent auction and door prizes for lucky ticket holders. A signed Brock Purdy jersey drew the highest bid: $2,500.
With 250 guests, this year’s luncheon was the biggest ever and netted $56,000 after costs, according to event chair Birdie Pacelli. The entire profit will go to the Soroptimists’ scholarship and community service projects.
“We were fully booked early on,” said chair Pacelli. “It’s a testimony to the continued support of the community. I am immensely grateful to the 29 dedicated and passionate Soroptimist ladies, my committee members, our generous benefactors, local businesses, beloved community, other clubs, local sports organizations — most especially the 49ers — and our esteemed families. Indeed, we are the little club that could.”
The event even draws visitors from outside the Bay Area. Marie Reed came all the way from Marysville for the luncheon.
“Emma Brunner introduced us to this event four years ago,” she said. “We are honored as women of three generations — 20,40, and 60 — to participate in this event. For young women to have the opportunity to be educated is a dream that touches our hearts.”
Some guests have deep family ties to the event.
“I joined Soroptimist because my sister Patty Mahan had been a member for years,” said Jeannie Mahan, “and I was always impressed with how much work such a small group did and how many lives they impact.
“When she passed,” Mahan continued, “I felt it was only fitting that I joined in to continue her legacy. Soroptimist is a wonderful group of women helping women, and not just helping but empowering women. I am proud to be part of this small group of women that does huge things for our community.”
Proceeds from the annual event fund Soroptimist projects serving women and girls, such as the Live Your Dream (LYD) award — a unique educational award to women who are the main breadwinners in their families. Over the years, Soroptimists have given nearly $100,000 for the scholarship program.
Other programs that the club supports include: Dream It, Be It career support for girls; the Family Assistance Christmas Store, bringing joy to families that would have no Christmas otherwise; and HomeSafe Housing for battered women and monthly birthday parties for children at domestic violence shelters.
This year alone, Soroptimists have spent $45,000 on programs for girls and women and have donated to relief efforts after the LA fires and hurricane victims in North Carolina.
“We’re very grateful for the support of our family, friends and community,” said SISCSV president Julie Babcock. “Every contribution, big or small, helps us to improve the lives of women and girls. Events like this show the power of coming together for a cause that truly matters.”
Visit siscsv.com for more information on SISCSV.
Previous Classy Bag Events:
It’s a Wrap: Soroptimists’ Classy Bag Affaire Biggest Ever
Soroptimists’ Classy Bag Affaire “Best Ever”
Soroptimist Classy Bag Affaire Rebounds
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