09
Wed, Oct

35th Annual Toy Drive for The Laurel Foundation on December 2nd

(l-r) Mark Moralez, Sam Culp, Robert Nieto, Margot Anderson, Suzanne Furst, Sam Leslie, Natalie Sofer, Ashan Leslie, Joe Cristina

LGBTQ

FUNDRAISER - The sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the sprawling grounds of Villa Rocce in Palm Springs, California. It will be a crisp December evening with the air buzzing with anticipation for the December 2nd event—the 35th Annual Toy Drive and Fundraiser, sponsored by Lexus and hosted by the Leslies.

Sam and Ashan Leslie, a dynamic couple with hearts as generous as their luxurious home, eagerly prepare for the event that will take place in just a few days. Villa Rocce, a picturesque estate with its elegant architecture, has become the heart of a yearly tradition that not only celebrates the holiday season but also makes a profound impact on the lives of at-risk youth.

This year's event, benefiting The Laurel Foundation, holds a special place in the Leslies' hearts. They have been supporting the foundation for an impressive 13 years, standing steadfast in their commitment to empowering children, youth, and families affected by HIV/AIDS and transgender/gender diverse youth. The Laurel Foundation's mission was etched in their hearts, and they were determined to make a difference.

As guests are getting ready to join the festivities on December 2nd, the Leslies have orchestrated an evening filled with the festive sounds of Christmas carols, courtesy of the Trans Chorus Los Angeles. The air is anticipated to be filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses as the evening kicks off with a hosted bar and gourmet dinner, setting the stage for a night of giving and joy.

The spacious rooms of Villa Rocce are expected to be adorned with Christmas decorations and the spirit of generosity. Tables are set for a culinary feast, and the promise of a silent auction will add an extra layer of excitement. The Leslies have spared no effort to ensure that every guest feels the warmth of the holiday season and the importance of their presence in supporting a noble cause.

A representative from The Laurel Foundation will take the stage on December 2nd, sharing heartfelt stories of the impact their programs have had on the lives of children and families over the past 31 years. The room is anticipated to be filled with a sense of purpose and unity as attendees realize the tangible difference they are about to make in the lives of those less fortunate.

The highlight of the evening is the growing number of toys under the tree, as Sam and Ashan have invited everyone on December 2nd to bring forth their contributions—a new, unwrapped toy for the children of The Laurel Foundation. The joy of the season is felt as the donations pile up with each toy a symbol of hope and love for a child who needs it most.

As the night unfolds, the silent auction is set to add an element of friendly competition among the guests, all in the spirit of raising funds for a cause close to their hearts. Sponsored by Lexus, the exclusive automotive sponsor, is poised to seamlessly blend elegance with purpose, showcasing a commitment to luxury and philanthropy.

The Leslies are beaming with pride for December 2nd, knowing that their upcoming event will once again become a beacon of support for The Laurel Foundation. This year, they have raised over $200k so far, their best year ever, and it is still growing.

Also, they are preparing to unveil the new Lexus 2024 TX, a symbol of innovation and sophistication, as a part of the ongoing partnership with the luxury automotive brand.

The December 2nd event promises to be more than a glamorous soirée; it is set to be a testament to the power of community, compassion, and the enduring spirit of giving. As guests depart, their hearts will be full and spirits lifted carrying with them the true essence of the holiday season—a season of love, generosity, and making a difference in the lives of those who need it most, with the support of sponsors like Lexus and the allure of the new Lexus 2024 TX.

For tickets and more information about this upcoming event, please visit https://e.givesmart.com/events/vLq/. If you cannot attend the event, you are more than welcome to make a donation by visiting their event page at 2023ToyDrive.Givesmart.com.

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