Tea, Trends, and Tranquility Charity Fundraiser – HELP of Southern Nevada
A Few Words From Shonda Decker
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, someone commented that the people who were saying that we were all in the same boat were wrong; we might be in the same storm, but our boats were likely very different. However, what many people do not realize is that not everyone is trying to face the same storm. Some people are facing the equivalent of a minor shower of rain, but others are facing the equivalent of a major hurricane. No one understands the analogy better than the staff members at HELP of Southern Nevada.
Over 50 years ago, the Junior League of Las Vegas played a major role in establishing the Voluntary Action Center. The VAC primarily helped connect people who needed help with those who provided help. This organization would become HELP of Southern Nevada. Today, approximately 170 HELP employees serve thousands of clients annually with more than 40 programs and 10 departments. One of these is the Shannon West Homeless Youth Center, or SWHYC. SWHYC serves those between the ages of 16 and 24 who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless.
For several years, I have been offering my support to HELP and SWHYC, and I am proud to say that my employees have also been involved. A couple of years ago, we redid the organization’s parking lot, and we have held donation drives for items that were sorely needed as well as financial contributions.
Long before I even began planning to open Affordable Striping & Sealing, I sought ways to give back to my community. I have also encouraged my employees to become involved in our community. Even a small act of kindness can have positive consequences that reach far and wide.
Frankly, though, I have always been reluctant to share information about my community involvement. I am not a fan of virtue signaling, and I am definitely not a fan of people who expect or demand reciprocation for every good deed. I have always believed in doing whatever I can without drawing attention to myself.
However, something has happened that has led me to step outside of my comfort zone. HELP of Southern Nevada hosts an annual fundraising event entitled Tea, Trends, and Tranquility. Much to my surprise, HELP has selected me as an honoree for the event. Other honorees this year include Dr. Oriaku A. Kas-Osoka and Kim Frank. Previous honorees have included Nevada first ladies, mayors, lawyers, and long-time HELP employees and volunteers.
This year, Tea, Trends, and Tranquility will be held on September 30 at the Waldorf Astoria. You can purchase tickets, make a one-time donation, purchase an ad in the program, or become an event sponsor by contacting HELP of Southern Nevada. This is a worthwhile cause to support if you are able to do so.
