The new facility in Gilroy is a marvelous blend of practicality and social awareness. The two-story building offers client access on the ground floor. Children and adults have separate waiting areas as well as separate counseling and therapy spaces. Drug and alcohol clients have discrete meeting space and entrance areas. Some rooms are set up with observation glass and / or cameras allowing for training and collaboration among staff. The mental health intake section has external access allowing for undisturbed entrance, transport and departure.
Separated for the client-centered first floor is the restricted access, staff-centered second floor. Bright and cheery offices, cubicles and meeting rooms allow for plenty of staff interaction. The atmosphere is positive and hopeful. The new location also brings together staff that had been dispersed in a variety of locations. Lisa DeSilva, Chief Development Officer, initiated a white board with a message“ What I like about spring …” One of the responses was“ The bunnies I see out my window …” The second floor is a good place to work! The place abounds with messages like the one in Lisa’ s office window“ Be realistic … expect a miracle.”
Susan Valenta honored at 7th Annual Hearts of Gilroy Charity Luncheon
The 7th Annual Hearts of Gilroy Women‘ s“ Gotta Have It” Charity Luncheon and Auction was held on Saturday, April 16th at the Eagle Ridge Club House. The event raises funds for Community Solutions, an organization that provides opportunities for positive change for kids and families who are most in need in South County. Over the past seven years, the group has raised nearly $ 90,000 for Community Solutions’ services for women and children.
The women in attendance enjoyed a wine and champagne cocktail hour while bidding on the numerous and lovely silent auction items. The silent auction was followed by lunch and a very spirited live auction run by Jayson Stebbins( Guild Mortgage). The Luncheon’ s annual“ Heart of Gilroy” Award honoring a local woman who has made a significant difference in the community was presented to Gilroy Chamber of Commerce President, Susan Valenta in recognition for her dedication to the community and making Gilroy a better place to live.
Susan Valenta accepting“ Heart of Gilroy” award from event organizer, Karen Titus.
Community Solutions is managed by a Board Of Director whose current members are:
Wes Walker, Chair Greg Sellers, Vice-Chair Nancy Miller, Secretary Mike Thompson, Treasurer Paula Goldsmith
Janie Mardesich
Deborah Morton-Padilla Erin O’ Brien,
President & CEO Robin Parsons
Shane Palsgrove Jane Solomon Denise Turner
Community Solutions hosts two major fundraisers a year: Hearts of Gilroy usually in April and Helping Hands & Healing Hearts in Morgan Hill in March. Community Solutions has a Fall Gala scheduled for November 9, 2013 at Willow Heights Mansion. People interested in helping Community Solutions can contribute directly or donate items like gift cards, dippers, and cell phones. There are also opportunities to volunteer or help with support services and administration.
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For more information contact:
Lisa DeSilva, Chief Development Officer lisad @ communitysolutions. org
Community Solutions 9015 Murray Avenue, Suite 100 Gilroy, CA 95020 408 846 4717 communitysolutions. org