LARC Fundraiser Embraces Mardi Gras Theme

LARC Ranch will take on a carnival atmosphere this fall during the non-profit organization’s annual fundraiser whose proceeds benefit not only LARC’s programs and services for developmentally disabled adults, but also its efforts to deal with an ongoing water crisis.
The “Carnival Extravaganza,” scheduled October 18, will feature a Mardi Gras theme, a variety of food vendor options, games, music, dancing and fun for the whole family.
“We like to make our fundraiser a fun event for the whole family,” said LARC Ranch Executive Director Kathy Sturkey. “It’s also a great chance for the whole community to see what LARC is all about: providing a safe environment for the more than 100 developmentally disabled adults who call LARC Ranch home.”
The Mardi Gras-themed event will be held at LARC Ranch, 29890 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus. Adult tickets cost $125 each, and children’s tickets cost $50. A family package of $325 includes tickets for two adults and two children.
The luncheon event in picturesque Bouquet Canyon begins at 1 p.m. with carnival games along with great food and dessert from a variety of vendors. DJ Bino Bates will provide rock ‘n’ roll music that is sure to keep the dance floor moving.
All proceeds benefit the programs, services and facilities of LARC Ranch, which provides residential and day program services to developmentally disabled adults.
The organization’s fundraising efforts are also focused on addressing LARC’s ongoing water crisis. The rural Bouquet Canyon facility’s wells have run dry due to the drought and other issues that have prevented water from being released from Bouquet Reservoir, which is supposed to replenish the wells.
LARC and several government agencies are working together on a long-term solution that would connect LARC to the Santa Clarita municipal water supply, which would end its reliance on well water.
“The water situation has made our fundraising needs even more urgent than usual,” Sturkey said. “Like all nonprofits, we must fundraise to support our regular operations — and the water crisis is an extraordinary circumstance.”
She added that the fundraiser is not only an important event to support those efforts, but is also a means of thanking those in the community who support LARC. “We like to keep it fun, and we also believe strongly in showing our appreciation for everyone who supports LARC and its residents. Our Mardi Gras party is a big part of that.”
LARC Ranch (Los Angeles Residential Community) was founded in 1959 by a group of parents who envisioned a better life for their developmentally disabled children. The 65-acre LARC Ranch provides homes, recreation and social activities, and day training activity centers for developmentally disabled adults. More information about LARC Ranch is available online at www.larcfoundation.org.
Reservations and additional information are available by calling 661-296-8636, ext. 219, or by visiting www.larcfoundation.org.