The Northwest Civic Association is having its annual holiday party and fundraiser on Wednesday, Dec. 12, at Mangia Italiano on Third Avenue at 6 p.m.
This year, the fundraiser is honoring late association board member Ted Kennedy by accepting donations for the Interfaith Shelter Network, which provides shelter and resources for the homeless in Chula Vista.
Kennedy was also a long-time writer, frequently submitting up to four letters a week, often funny and insightful, to The Star-News, during which he developed a loyal following over the years.
He was also highly dedicated to serving the community he lived in, according to association president Ken Wright.
Kennedy, who was a founding member of the association in 2006, passed away last November and worked with interfaith for many years, including with their program called Project Hand.
“With his passing … he helped steer us toward that type of event,” Wright said. “We are going to commemorate him with that charity.”
Wright said while homelessness was one of Kennedy’s biggest concerns and passions, he also fought for seniors in mobile home parks and to get them help with their taxes, among other things.
“Ted was always looking out for anybody downtrodden, anybody who needed help in any way,” Wright said. “He would bring it to our attention. He used us as a conduit to help whomever he saw was in need.”
All money donated goes to the Interfaith Shelter Network.
“People can just walk in and make a donation and/or stay to eat,” Wright said.
“It should be a fun event,” Wright said. “Normally we have at least one council member show up and enjoy our festivities.”
The Interfaith Shelter Network is a collaborative effort by local congregations, human services agencies and government entities to provide shelter, services and resources to homeless San Diegans throughout the region.
The event will be held in the banquet room, accessible from the parking lot behind the building. Mangia Italiano is located at 248 Third Ave. in Chula Vista. For more information, call (619) 307-3460 or visit www.NorthwestChulaVista.org.
The association encourages anyone to attend the event and bring a cash or check donation in Kennedy’s honor to benefit Interfaith Shelter Network.
