SUMMER NEWSLETTER
LETTER FROM OUR OUTGOING PRESIDENT
Michele DeSantis
Dear Central Guild members and friends,
As the fiscal year ended on June 30, 2024, so has my two-year stint as President of the Guild. I would like to begin by saying that it has been a great privilege for me to have been given the opportunity to serve as our Guild’s President.
Looking back at the past 24 months, we all experienced so many fun and memorable moments, culminating in great fundraising efforts and wonderful donations to Casa Teresa. As we maneuvered through post-covid times where restrictions were released, we came together as a group and immediately started where we left off. We successfully organized fundraisers like the Kentucky Derby and Casapalooza, and hosted FUN-raisers like Halloween and Christmas Bingo and new member wine dinners.
So, thank you all for your help and support. Thank you, especially, to my Board, who are not only smart, capable and giving of their time and expertise, but they also make the meetings so much fun! Thank you to all of you who have given your time, money, efforts and ideas to make the events a success.
I am so excited Monica Gutierrez has stepped up to be the next President. I have known Monica for 24 years and worked with her on many fundraising activities. The Guild is in great hands and I can’t wait to see what great events we have in the near future.
Thank you,
Michele DeSantis
President - Casa Teresa Central Guild 2022-2024
Welcome to the Casa Teresa Central Guild Summer Newsletter!
I am delighted to greet you all in this edition of the Casa Teresa Central Guild Summer Newsletter as your new President for the 20242025 term. It is an honor to serve this wonderful community that has been such an important part of my life for so many years.
Since joining the Central Guild in 2017, I have had the privilege of working alongside many of you. Throughout various times in our lives, I have had the pleasure of knowing many of you through our children’s school, other philanthropic groups, and youth athletics. Some of you I have even known for as long as 24 years, forming deep connections and lasting friendships that have enriched my experience in countless ways.
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Monica Gutierrez
My journey with the Guild has been complemented by these diverse experiences, providing me with valuable insights and a deep understanding of our shared goals and values.
As we look forward to the upcoming year, I am eager to work together with each of you to further strengthen our community and advance our mission. We have many exciting initiatives planned, and I am confident that, with our collective efforts, we will achieve great things.
Thank you for your trust and support. Let us make this year a memorable and impactful one for Casa Teresa.
Warm regards,
Monica Gutierrez President
- Casa Teresa Central Guild 2024-2025
CENTRAL GUILD SHINES
AT CASA TERESA GOLF
TOURNAMENT
Shellyn Hazard
The Casa Teresa Golf Tournament was not just a day on the greens; it was a showcase of skill, spirit, and solidarity from the members of the Central Guild of Casa Teresa. This annual event brought together avid golfers and enthusiastic volunteers, all united in their dedication to support the vital programs of Casa Teresa.
Our members were not only participants showing their prowess in the sport but also played a crucial role in enhancing the event by volunteering to provide refreshments and support throughout the day. The camaraderie and community spirit were palpable, with laughs shared and memories made under the sunny skies.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all who joined us, contributing not just their time but also their generosity. Your participation directly benefits the lives of the mothers and babies at Casa Teresa, providing them with essential housing, education, and comprehensive health services.
As we look back at some of the tournament’s best moments, we are reminded of the impact we can make when we come together.
CELEBRATING SUCCESS: CENTRAL GUILD’S END OF THE YEAR BOARD GATHERING
As the fiscal year ended, the Casa Teresa Central Guild Board celebrated at the OC Wine Mart, highlighting a year of community engagement, dedication, and significant achievements. This event brought all Board Members together to enjoy fine wines and snacks in a convivial atmosphere.
This past year, we welcomed new members to the Guild, each adding enthusiasm and fresh ideas that strengthen our mission. Our events not only united the community but also significantly supported Casa Teresa’s vital services, raising essential funds for the mothers and babies we serve.
Looking ahead to 2024-2025, we are eager to build on these successes and continue our impactful work. We are grateful for the ongoing support from our members and the community, confident in our ability to make an even greater difference.
Thank you to all our members and supporters. Your dedication is crucial to our success, and we are excited to continue making a meaningful impact together.
Here’s to a future of hope, community, and success!
REMEMBERING MARY ANN BROCKSCHMIDT: A FOUNDING PILLAR OF OUR COMMUNITY
It is with a profound sense of loss and deep respect that we announced the passing of Mary Ann Brockschmidt, a founding member of the Central Guild of Casa Teresa, on May 21, 2024, at the age of 88.
Born in Chicago and a resident of California since 1973, Mary was a beacon of service and leadership in our community. Her tireless dedication as a board member and volunteer profoundly shaped Casa Teresa, enriching our mission with her passion, kindness, and unwavering spirit of service. Her contributions over the decades have left an indelible mark on both our organization and the community at large.
Mary’s legacy is one of love, commitment, and selfless support. She is survived by her loving family—children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren—who proudly carry forward her legacy of faith and dedication.
Following the services, Nadine Peabody graciously invited Guild members and guests to a remembrance get-together at her home. This gathering was an opportunity for friends, family, and community members to share memories and celebrate Mary’s impactful life.
Mary Ann Brockschmidt’s remarkable life and contributions will forever be cherished and remembered within our Guild and beyond.
SUMMER GREETINGS FROM THE HEART IN HAND COMMITTEE
Cathy Garcia, Staci Anaya
As the sun shines brighter and we dive into the heart of summer, the Heart in Hand Committee sends the warmest of wishes to each of you. This season is bustling with joyous occasions— weddings, family reunions, and the welcome of new lives. We encourage you to celebrate these beautiful moments with open hearts and joyful spirits.
Always Here for You
During times when the days aren’t as sunny, remember that the Heart in Hand Committee is here to support you. Whether you need a comforting meal, a listening ear, or some words of encouragement, please reach out. We are dedicated to helping
and uplifting our Casa Teresa community members through thick and thin.
Share Your Celebrations!
Have there been new additions to your family? A newborn baby, or a new grandchild? Let us celebrate with you! Send in your announcements, so we can share your joy and welcome the newest little members of our extended family. Thank you for your continued engagement and the warmth you bring to our community. Here’s to a summer filled with friendship, laughter, and collective joy.
A THRIVING COMMUNITY: CELEBRATING MEMBERSHIP GROWTH IN THE CENTRAL GUILD
Donna Miller and Heather Greene
The Membership Committee is thrilled to report a significant growth in our membership this past year, reflecting the vibrant and expanding community of the Central Guild. From the 2022-2023 membership count of 38, we have joyfully risen to 52 active and dedicated members in the 2023-2024 fiscal year. This growth spans new, active, and patron members, each bringing their unique strengths and passion to our collective efforts.
This increase is not just a number—it represents a growing force of support for Casa Teresa, where every new member amplifies our ability to provide crucial resources for the mothers and babies who rely on our assistance. But the impact of growing our membership extends beyond fundraising; it enriches our Guild with increased opportunities for social connections and community engagement.
We believe that each new member brings us new perspectives and potential, strengthening our Guild and enhancing the network of support for Casa Teresa. It’s about more than just raising funds; it’s about expanding a community of individuals who care deeply about making a difference.
We encourage all our members to reach out to
friends and family to consider joining the Central Guild. Each new member helps to broaden our reach and deepen our impact, fostering not only charitable support but also cultivating meaningful social ties that enhance our guild’s vibrant community life.
For those interested in joining or knowing someone who might be, please refer to the Membership Form attached. It’s a simple step that can lead to significant outcomes—for Casa Teresa and for each of us.
Together, let’s continue to grow our community and make a lasting impact. Join us in making the 20242025 year even more successful. Your involvement means more than you know, and together, we can achieve remarkable things for the families we serve.
CELEBRATING OUR GUILD MEMBERS & THEIR FAMILIES
Congratulations to the Peabody Family for their marriage of eldest son Tim to his beautiful wife Tara this past May.
Best wishes to Kathleen Knight, member and daughter of member Karen Pekarcik, and husband Jesse on the birth of their first child Stephanie “Stevie” Knight!!
Content Creator Chiara Rose, daughter of past-President Michele DeSantis, has a full page advertisment in the July 29th issue of People Magazine. Well done!
Have a celebration you want to share? Keep us posted on your family’s successes and celebrations!
CELEBRATING SUCCESS AT THE 2024 KENTUCKY DERBY FUNDRAISER
Kathy Ricks
This year’s Kentucky Derby Party, hosted graciously by Michael and Laurel Provenzano, was nothing short of spectacular, raising an impressive $38,900 for the women and children of Casa Teresa. Our heartfelt thanks go to every attendee, volunteer, and sponsor who made this event a remarkable success.
We had the pleasure of hosting 80 guests at this festive gathering. The day was filled with the rich flavors of the South with a beautiful lunch and signature cocktails. The Kevin Cameron Band provided a lively soundtrack, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the event.
Our guests enjoyed a plethora of activities, including a Silent Auction, Live Auction, and the ever-popular Blind Wine Raffle. The excitement peaked with the Derby Square and Mystery Horse games, adding a fun and competitive edge to the festivities. A special highlight was the visit from former jockey Frank Olivares, who shared insights and stories from his illustrious career.
The day concluded with exquisite desserts provided by guild members, adding a sweet finale to a successful event. We are especially grateful to our generous sponsors: Apriem Advisors, Joe & Michele DeSantis, John & Renee Simonis, Jim & Elene Kiefus, and Tim & Laura Ristoff. Their support was crucial in making this event possible.
Auction Highlights and Winners
The live auction saw spirited bidding, with Joe and Michele DeSantis taking the win, and Jim and Suzie Reinhardt securing the place and show positions. Our Mystery Horse game was won by William and Dana Mazurie, with John and Shellyn Hazard taking the last place, adding a playful element to the fundraising.
Derby Squares Winners
The Derby Squares were a hit, with two posters up for grabs. The winners were Staci Anaya and Val Barber (Win), Shellyn Hazard and Ruben Azarate (Place), and Mary Finn Parker along with Kathy and Tom Groff (Show), all of whom went home with fantastic prizes.
As we look back on this wonderful day, we are filled with gratitude for the overwhelming support and generosity of our community. The funds raised will directly assist the many women and children who rely on Casa Teresa for support and guidance. We are already looking forward to next year’s Derby Day, hopeful for even greater success and continued community spirit.
Thank you again to everyone involved, especially our chair, Kathy Ricks, and our hosts, the Provenzano family, for making the 2024 Kentucky Derby Party an unforgettable event. Let’s do it all again next year!
EMPOWERING CHANGE: CENTRAL GUILD’S IMPACTFUL SUPPORT FOR CASA TERESA
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone involved in these fundraising efforts. Your generosity fuels our collective mission and directly impacts the lives of those we serve, illustrating the profound difference we can make when we come together for a common cause.
We are immensely thankful to all who have participated in our fundraising initiatives. Your generosity not only supports our shared mission but also creates lasting change in the lives of those we aid, demonstrating the powerful impact we achieve when we unite for a common purpose.
From July 2023 to June 2024, the Central Guild celebrated our community’s spirit and generosity, bringing friends and members together through engaging events that significantly boosted our fundraising efforts for Casa Teresa. Throughout the fiscal year, these gatherings not only fostered community bonds but also successfully raised a remarkable total of $96,528 which included $88,307 in cash donation to Casa Teresa.
This impressive sum underscores our community’s commitment to Casa Teresa’s mission, helping to provide essential care and services to the mothers and babies in our care. The events of this past year have not only been a testament to the power of collective action but also a celebration of the unity and strength within the Central Guild and our broader community.
TREASURER’S REPORT:
FOR FISCAL YEAR (JULY - JUNE 2024):
CASA TERESA MEMBERSHIP FORM Central Guild
Thank you for your interest in joining or renewing your membership for the Casa Teresa Central Guild.
Please select from options below:
_______New Member: $100 (includes a one time $50 initiation fee)
Active Membership renewal: $50
_______Patron Membership: $100
Additional Donation
During Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Central Guild donated $88,000 to Casa Teresa, much of it was donated by our members or raised at our Kentucky Derby Event. While we are excited to plan several in person events this year, any monetary donations you are able to provide at this time will be helpful with jumpstarting our fundraising efforts. We are looking forward to a wonderful year!
Donations are tax deductible.
Thank you for your support!
Casa Teresa Central Guild
Name: Spouse:
Address: City/Zip: ______________________
Phone: __________________Email Address:
Please make checks payable to Casa Teresa Central Guild and mail form to: Casa Teresa Central Guild • 17602 17th St. Ste#102-142 • Tustin, CA 92780 or if you would like to pay by credit card, use the following links: