DPWC Hosts Successful 4th Annual Cocktails for a Cause!

Dana Point Women’s Club (DPWC) celebrated community, compassion, and philanthropy at its 4th Annual “Cocktails for a Cause” held Wednesday, May 7th at the scenic Aventura Sailing Club in Dana Point Harbor.

Warm welcomes and introductions were extended by President Kathy Belanger and Ways & Means Chair, Marla Freeman. Public Relations Director, Toni Nelson formally thanked the event Gold sponsor, the City of Dana Point, represented by Councilman Jamey Federico, and five bronze sponsors, Life by Design Investment Advisory Services, Rosskopf Designs, Katrina Foley, Orange County Vice Chair and 5th District Supervisor, Triton Air & Plumbing and Richard Wolpow. Other major donors included Gaetano Real Estate (photo booth sponsor), Harbor Partners, Susan Chase Real Estate and Paul and Doreen Wyatt.

The event benefited Orange County United Way’s SparkPoint South OC program, which supports low-income individuals and families in achieving lasting financial stability. Notably, the 2025 initiative was extended to include the SparkPoint Program in support of Survivors of Exploitation, deepening DPWC’s impact on vulnerable local women. According to DPWC President, Kathy Belanger, “We devote 100% of our fundraisers’ net proceeds to our philanthropic programs. In this case, $32,000 will be shared equally between vulnerable SparkPoint families and exploitation survivors. Our contribution will help fund the highly successful SparkPoint financial literacy program which prevents homelessness and helps beneficiaries increase income, improve credit, reduce debt and build savings.” She went on to extend her deepest gratitude to all the local businesses, DPWC members, and many other donors and volunteers who contributed to “this heartwarming cause. "

Guests were treated to a lively evening featuring cocktails and passed hors d'oeuvres, a gourmet dinner and DPWC’s trademark desserts, homemade by Club members. Guests enjoyed a lavish silent auction, raffle tables, wine pulls, a fun photo booth, and a spirited live auction.

Event Chair, Marla Freeman, said “ It was a successful evening with nearly half of the guests winning an auction or raffle prize or wine, and everyone walking away with a smile. We’re very proud to once again, bring people together for a meaningful cause. We look forward to welcoming the community back for another unforgettable evening in 2026.”

Dana Point Women's Club has served the South Orange County community since 1951. Women interested in membership are urged to visit DPWC’s website to learn more and contact the Club’s Membership Chair. Community House serves as DPWC’s Clubhouse, and also as a local venue for meetings, parties and events to help maintain the building and fund the non-profit’s philanthropies. Contact info@communityhousedp.org or call 949-284-6415 for more information regarding venue rentals.

DPWC member Febyolla Goss contributed to this article.