Beach, Babes & Bunco: A Night of Fun and Fundraising at San Vicente Resort

One of the Ramona Soroptimist Club's most loved fundraisers, "Beach, Babes & Bunco," is designed to raise money for the club's scholarship and Live the Dream programs. These programs help young ladies and girls overcome obstacles in life—whether they need support for school or as the breadwinners for their families. Their goal is to give them an arm up, not a handout.

At Beach, Babes & Bunco, 60 people gathered to play three games of Bunco. They celebrated with a colorful Hawaiian theme and decorated with surfboards and leis, filling the room with joy. Everyone was dressed in fun, tropical outfits and enjoyed a delicious meal. The dining experience featured a hamburger bar with tater tots, beans, a fresh salad, a drink bar, and a snack shack. 

Raffles, Prizes, and Community Support

The event was also packed with excitement from 21 different raffle baskets and 21 silent auctions. The main supporter of this event, Uptown Boutique, helped make the evening even more special. Every attendee received a door prize and had the chance to pick a free gift from their jewelry tray. In addition, the cost of admission included a drink and a raffle ticket. Lucky winners were also able to choose gift bags with prizes like gift cards from San Vicente Resort, Rachel's Restaurant, and Main Street Coffee. Local businesses contributed to the winning prizes, showing their strong support for the club's mission.

Scholarships and Dream Awards

The fundraiser helps fund the Soroptimists' Dream and Scholarship programs at local high schools such as Ramona High, Montecito, and Mountain Valley Academy. Students submit applications for these scholarships. They also give a special "Live Your Dream Award" to one outstanding young woman each year. This award is very important to us, as it celebrates overcoming obstacles and encourages girls to believe they can achieve anything with hard work and support. 

A special thank you goes out to Kimberly Buckley and Carrie Daly Bryant as the event leads, Debby Fraser for her help at the event, and to all the wonderful Soroptimist members who made the day possible. If you are interested in joining the global group that empowers women and children, please visit their website: Ramona Soroptimist.

Our mission statement is to empower women and girls through education and training, enabling them to achieve economic empowerment and reach their full potential. Let's continue to work together to brighten futures—one girl, one scholarship, and one dream at a time. 

Photos by Cheryl Schlauch.