What is the “Women’s Auxiliary”?
In the spirit of honoring those who have lived long lives, the Women’s Auxiliary of Seacrest Foundation is a dedicated group of volunteers led by a mission to nurture and enrich the quality of life for the residents of Seacrest Village. The Women’s Auxiliary makes a meaningful impact on the lives of the residents of Seacrest Village by volunteering their time to coordinate large-scale fundraising events, like galas, that bring the community together to support important programs and provide charitable care for residents in need.
What is the history of the Women’s Auxiliary?
Over the years, millions of dollars have been raised through the efforts of the Women’s Auxiliary. Members take pride in knowing that Seacrest Foundation has granted these funds to Seacrest Village for charitable care for residents, as well as other important projects such as purchasing new passenger vans and state-of-the-art beds, the implementation of Seacrest Village TV (SVTV), or providing resources for the COVID-19 Emergency Fund. The need to raise funds is greater than ever, with the number of older adults requiring financial assistance growing at an unprecedented rate.
Why does the Women’s Auxiliary of Seacrest Foundation need to raise money?
It is estimated that by 2050 people over the age of 65 will represent more than 20 percent of the population, up from just 15 percent today; this increase in population is often referred to as the ‘silver tsunami’. Ten years ago, Seacrest provided $700,000 per year in charitable care to residents, and currently provides $2.5 million annually. At this same rate, 10 years from now, they would theoretically require $6.25 million per year to care for those in need, but because of the ‘silver tsunami’ this will potentially not be enough. These critical funds provide support to those whose savings have been depleted due to illness or injury, or other reasons, and for those who simply may have nowhere to turn for help.
How do galas raise funds for Seacrest?
Those who attend a gala contribute by either purchasing a ticket or as sponsor or underwriter. While attending the gala, guests can participate in the live auction or fund-a-need program. For those who wish to support the efforts of the gala but cannot attend, we are grateful for any gift to Seacrest Foundation. In February of 2021, in response to the global pandemic, the Women’s Auxiliary organized a virtual gala and honored the Seacrest Heroes, the Seacrest staff who provided love and care to the residents during this difficult time. The outpouring of love for the residents and gratitude for the Seacrest Heroes was incredible raising over $3 million in support of Seacrest Village and Seacrest at Home. One thing is for certain…not even a pandemic can stop our Jewish Community from taking care of one another.
How do galas help continue the legacy of caring at Seacrest Village?
The Foundation’s ability to continue providing funds to Seacrest Village depends on the generosity of our San Diego Jewish community, who have given so generously for the past 75 years. The galas are an incredible opportunity for our community to come together in support of securing the future of Seacrest for many years to come.
You are invited to join this devoted group of San Diegans as a committee member of The Women’s Auxiliary, making a difference in our community and building friendships that last a lifetime.
Members also enjoy the following benefits:
- Exclusive discounts on event tickets
- Invitations to Seacrest Village Speaker Series
- Opportunity to serve on event committees
- Complimentary lunch at Mel’s Place or in the newly renovated dining room at Seacrest Village
- Recognition in publications and website
Annual Membership fees, which are 100% tax deductible, are $50. Lifetime Memberships are $1,800.
July 2024 – June 2025 Members
Mary Epsten, President
Lifetime Members
Ellen Addleson
Esther Belinsky
Hildegarde Beyor
Irene Borevitz
Elaine Chortek *
Toby Cohen
Phyllis Epstein
Mary Epsten
Donna Gilbert
Hanna Gleiberman
Jeanne Gold
Sonia Israel
Susan Kabakoff
Marge Kalmanson
Renée Levine
Teddie Lewis Pincus *
Dr. F.M. Margolin
Barbara Milstein
Lisa Orlansky
Jane Ottenstein
Norma Peskin
Shirley Pidgeon
Arlene Rosen
Mary Ann Scher
Lottie Schraer
Beverly Silldorf
Angela Steinberg
Carol Swimmer
Renee Tepper
Sylvia Wechter
Jo Weiner
Sandy Weinstein
Lee Weiss
Sandy Zemer
Bebe Zigman
* Of Blessed Memory
Annual Members
Melissa Bartel
Pamela Beimel
Rhonda Berger
Susan Braun
Deborah Brenner
Liz Coden
Suzi Cohen
Susan DeRose
Robin Eisenberg
Linda Epstein
Judi Gerber
Shirley Glickman
Rory Goldberg
Louise Goldwyn
Beverlee Greene
Andrea Kaplan
Marge Katleman
Marcia Kern
Rosalee Kitaen
Susan LaPadula
Selma Leighton
Annie Mound
Barbara Newman
Linda Otchis
Bobbi Rossman
Elana Schiff
Denise Selati
Jeanne Shenkman
Jill Stone
Marsha Sutton
Deena Swidler
Isabelle Wasserman