Over the years, Jen and Vanessa stayed in touch, each becoming heavily involved in philanthropic endeavors— Jen as an Ambassador for Save the Children, and Vanessa as a charity wine auction leader for Jameson Humane and other non-profit organizations.
During the 2025 fires in LA, Jen’ s house was on the brink of the burn zone, and the two friends were in frequent contact. While Jen’ s house was spared, her neighbors’ homes burned to the ground, and she despaired at how families all over LA were displaced without a place for their children to live, learn, play, or worship.
In the wake of this devastation, the two friends came together to create meaning and purpose through what became the“ From Ashes to Hope Auction”.
Napa Valley has long been known for its spirit of generosity and philanthropy, not just within the community but across the United States and the world, as exemplified by the Naples Winter Wine Festival.
This spirit of giving and the connectivity of wine can largely be credited to Robert and Margrit Mondavi, who began their philanthropic efforts in the early 1960s. Robert Mondavi, a key figure in the wine industry, was deeply committed to using his success to support cultural and educational causes. Their philanthropic efforts grew significantly after the opening of the Robert Mondavi Winery in 1966, which also marked the beginning of their involvement in supporting the arts, education, and community development.
THE ART OF APPRECIATION 53