On October 3, St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin’s (SVdP) annual Pennies from Heaven gala celebrated a special milestone — the organization’s 80th anniversary. This year’s event welcomed 210 guests to the Meadow Club in Fairfax, which was transformed with atmospheric lighting and grandiose decor to set the night’s tone. Night Ranger pianist Eric Levy provided tasteful live music as well.
Jean Gallagher, Rich Gallagher, Kathleen Robertson – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
John Krueger, Kathleen Woodcock, Rachel Kertz, Mario Ernesto Lopez – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
Karen Miccula, Larry Cusick, Michela O_Connor Abrams – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
Roy Chernus, Renee Chernus, Cheyenne Levi, Peter Levi – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
Steve Martini, Marilyn Martini, Shannon Alten, Bob Alten – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
Eventgoers — which included notable guest San Rafael City Councilmember Rachel Kertz — were treated to a night of tasty fare, beginning with a signature welcome cocktail crafted by Sausalito Liquor Co. Bites included charcuterie provided by Chef Deb Keith of Kitchen Cafe & Catering, and dinner provided by the Meadow Club, which was paired with wine by Lynmar Estate.
Sausalito Liquor Co – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
As guests enjoyed their meals, SVdP’s Chief Executive Officer Christine Paquette and Chief Philanthropy Officer Kathleen Woodcock spoke about the organization’s accomplishments throughout its 80 years of service. They also reiterated the gala’s purpose — raising money to continue sustaining SVdP’s programs and services.
“Pennies from Heaven highlights the extraordinary generosity of our benefactors, whose support allows us to do more for the people we serve,” Woodcock said. “Our strong community is built through partnership, and together we create hope and dignity for our neighbors in need.”
Bank of Marin, Sponsor – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
Sponsor Sign – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
Steve & Marilyn Martini, Shannon & Bob Alten, Alten Construction, Sponsor – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
Tim & Anne Russell_ Valley Oak Wealth Management, Sponsor – credit Natalie Schrik of Drew Altizer Photography
The gala ultimately raised a total of $750,000, thanks to the various fundraising activities and the generosity of those participating. Activities included a silent auction, live auction, Fund-a-Need and a raffle. The Fund-a-Need featured a $400,000 matching challenge, and one of the auction items honored SVdP’s 80th anniversary with a diamond pendant that was curated and donated by Cresalia Jewelers.
