Rotary to Host Unique Fundraiser to Provide Critical Aid to Ukraine

August 24th marks Ukraine’s Day of Independence – a fitting date for Dana Point’s Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club to host a unique event to provide critical aid to the war-ravaged country. The occasion promises to be extraordinary, featuring an authentic Ukrainian dinner, hosted beer and wine, music and a Fund-a-Need event. The program will include live and video messages from International Rotary Presidents in Ukraine who will provide first person accounts of the devastating losses the country has endured, and describe how critical aid is being distributed as the unrelenting war with Russia ensues. Guests will mingle with local Ukrainians, some in traditional dress, and will enjoy delicious ethnic foods while learning more about this brave people and their culture.

According to Dr. Jill Fabricant, International Service Chair, Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary, “100% of donations will directly benefit Ukraine. Your contributions will provide housing, cots, bedding, medical supplies (tourniquets, bandages and antibiotics), clothing, food and clean water to Ukrainian citizens who are in dire need. We’ve been providing funding for critical humanitarian needs through our international Rotary Club partners. This fundraiser will allow us to do more.” Dana Point Rotary Club members have been working closely with in-country counterparts who distribute supplies using donated funds and material assistance. The Club, together with Rotary District 5320, have raised $33,000 for this cause since March, but more is desperately needed.

“Glory to Ukraine” will be held at the Fish Tank, a unique event venue located at 34233 Via Santa Rosa, Capistrano Beach on Wednesday August 24th from 6 to 9 PM. The newly renovated space features wall to wall audio-visual capability and a unique modern/industrial vibe in an impressively renovated former warehouse. Fish Tank owner Larry Robinson donated the space for the cause. He noted, “Our wall to wall audio-visual capability will surround guests with compelling and heart wrenching images of war-torn Ukraine, contrasting with images before the conflict began. My wife Cate and I are honored to host the event here. The Ukrainian people need our immediate aid and we’re thrilled to be able to help.”

The event will be limited to 80 guests (dinner and wine/beer included) who can choose regular ($100) or VIP ($250) tickets .Zoom tickets ($30) and Fund-a-Need donation opportunities are also available. Read more about the event and purchase tickets or make donations here. . All event costs, including food, personnel and auction prizes are donated or covered by the Rotary Club so that every dollar raised will benefit humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Read more about the event and purchase tickets or make donations here.