Elizabeth House to hold gala benefit March 20

Supporters of Elizabeth House – the only homeless shelter for homeless pregnant women and their children in the San Gabriel Valley – who attend this year’s annual gala benefit and silent auction, “Where Love Embraces Life,” on Saturday March 20 may at first wonder whether they’re at Dodger Stadium or the University Club of Pasadena.

“We’re so pleased that Eric Smith, announcer for the Dodgers, has agreed to join us as emcee at this very special event,” says Debbie Unruh, founder and executive director of Elizabeth House. “With Eric’s help, we have no doubt that we can hit a ‘home run’ to build on 16 years of hope and raise the funds that will enable us to open a second house – a place where our ‘graduates’ will find affordable housing and supportive services as they transition into their new lives.”

Wendy Modic, Administrative Assistant at Elizabeth House, knows first hand the critical role affordable transitional housing can play in the lives of those Elizabeth House serves.

“Thanks to Elizabeth House, my experience with homelessness has now come full circle,” explains Modic. “My family is thriving, we are healthy, happy and we are no longer homeless. I am so proud to now work for the same agency that took me and my son in 13 years ago when I was pregnant. It means so much to be a part of the work that will make a difference in the lives of so many families like mine.”

In addition, nationally syndicated radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt – heard locally on KRLA 870 AM – will appear as guest speaker at the gala. Hewitt may also be familiar to television audiences, having made appearances on such programs as The Dennis Miller Show, Hardball with Chris Matthews, Larry King Live and The Today Show.

“I look forward to hearing Hugh’s thoughts on the work we do at Elizabeth House and how we can continue to ensure that ‘love embraces life,’ ” says Gala co-chairman Mary Sue Scheidler, who is chairing the event with Maritza Smith and Rosalie Halverson.

But before the dinner and the program begin at 7:30 p.m., guests will have an opportunity to bid on an array of items at the reception and silent auction at 6 p.m. Items range from Lakers and Dodgers tickets to stays at private homes in Big Bear, Lake Tahoe, Newport Beach and Hawaii. “Whether you prefer a getaway at the mountains or the beach, we have it,” adds Rosalie Halverson with a smile.

Also exciting a lot of attention is a painting donated by artist Joseph Stoddard, whose painting of Elizabeth House graces this year’s invitation.

“It’s an original watercolor of a scene from Pasadena and it’s absolutely lovely,” says Maritza Smith. “It’s also a perfect item for Elizabeth House to offer because the upcoming Elizabeth House Gala is an opportunity for residents of Pasadena and surrounding communities to offer support and affirmation for the compassionate work happening at this remarkable place. After 16 years of serving homeless, pregnant women and children in Pasadena, we continue to provide a range of services that is truly extraordinary in its level of scope and practicality. Each woman is loved and treated with dignity. Lives are changed.”

Individual tickets for “Where Love Embraces Life” are available for $150/person. For more information about this year’s benefit at the University Club in Pasadena, call (626) 577-4434‎ or visit www.elizabethhouse.net. The University Club of Pasadena is located at 175 North Oakland Avenue in Pasadena.


The mission of Elizabeth House is to provide shelter and family-focused support to homeless pregnant women and their children through a comprehensive program that addresses the physical, emotional, spiritual, and economic needs of women and children in a nurturing atmosphere. Visit www.elizabethhouse.net or call 626.577.4434 to learn more about Elizabeth House, its programs, upcoming events and opportunities to become involved.