The Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks 2444 just held the third annual Party in the Park with the 270+ residents of the Orange County Rescue Mission Shelter.
There are more than 100 kids that are also residents at the Mission who had a great time playing games, having their faces painted and burning calories in the bounce house/slide. The children all fell in love at the puppy petting zoo. Around 30 Elk members and friends joined together to make their day the best it could be.
Marley Penalosa Volunteer Groups Coordinator for the Mission (center) with Event Co-Chairs Stephanie Bongartz and Derek Randles Past Exalted Ruler
The Elks fed them cotton candy and snow cones and played games with them in the park assuring every child (and most of the adults) were loaded up with candy, toys and prizes, school and stationary supplies, and lots of donated clothing and gift bags thanks to Stephanie Bongartz and Bongo Ink. Bill Bongartz led the kitchen crew to feed a very hungry group hot dogs and hamburgers which is a real treat to the residents – every one of them showed the utmost respect and appreciation to the Elks team as they went through the buffet style lines.
The Lodge in conjunction with Elks National Foundation put this event together with the help of Lodge members and friends. Through the $2500 ENF Promise Grant the Lodge was able to provide a full day of fun, food, prizes, treats, and many basic items that the kids desperately need for the upcoming school year. Past Exalted Ruler Derek Randles and Past Elk of the Year Stephanie Bongartz started this program three years ago and it just keeps getting better.
Andy Costello
Grand Lodge Area 7
Public Relations & Marketing Committeeman
