Las Patronas awards more than $207,000 to six San Diego nonprofits at La Jolla luncheon

Las Patronas announced more than $207,000 in grants to six major San Diego nonprofit beneficiaries at a Jan. 14 luncheon, funded by $900,589 raised at the group's 79th Jewel Ball; the awards will support vehicles and equipment for programs across the county.

Las Patronas held a beneficiary luncheon on Jan. 14 at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club to distribute grants raised through its annual fundraising. The group reported that the funds came from its 79th Jewel Ball, held Aug. 2 with the theme "Back En Pointe." The awards are intended to support program access and operations at several San Diego nonprofits. Las Patronas also announced plans for its 80th Jewel Ball in August. Key details: - Las Patronas awarded more than $207,000 total to six major beneficiaries, with each receiving at least $20,000; the money came from $900,589 raised at the 79th Jewel Ball on Aug. 2, themed "Back En Pointe." - Remaining funds from the Jewel Ball will be distributed to other beneficiaries that receive less than $20,000 each. - Camp Stevens — funding for a passenger van to expand access to its programs. - Ivey Ranch Park Association — funding for a wheelchair-accessible minivan for people with physical, emotional and developmental challenges. - Neighborhood House Association, Fleet Science Center, San Diego Youth Services, and San Diego Youth Symphony — grants to support kitchen equipment for meal preparation, a vehicle for offsite programs, a minivan for an emergency youth shelter, and a van to transport students and instruments, respectively. Summary: The grants are intended to support transportation and operational needs across multiple San Diego nonprofits, aiming to expand access and services for community programs. Las Patronas noted that the remaining funds will go to smaller beneficiaries, and the organization plans its 80th Jewel Ball, "Festa di Venezia," for Aug. 8 as a future fundraising event.