Sherwood Cares Foundation themed Cirque Du Sherwood Gala

Raised more than $1.1 million

Ofer and Kelly Shemtov

Sherwood Cares, the 501(c)(3) charitable arm of Sherwood Country Club, held its main fundraiser of the year on Sunday, September 29.  The Gala theme was Cirque Du Sherwood.  The enchanting décor was complemented by aerial performers, height-defying stilt walkers and an after party featuring a live band, burlesque dancers and a tarot card reader.  
 
Actor and comedian John O’Hurley served as emcee for his laugh-filled program.  The evening also featured guest speaker Eddie Melendez.  This young man movingly recounted how the mentorship of Sherwood members and local nonprofits informed and supported his journey from foster care to enrolling in USC Film School this fall.
 
The gala offered extraordinary travel, golf and one-of-a-kind auction items. There was also an opportunity board with chances to win a $25,000 gift certificate to Polacheck’s Jewelers. The event raised more than $1.1 million that will go directly into the community.  By the end of 2024, Sherwood Cares will have granted more than $6.5 million to 64 nonprofits within a 25-mile drive of the Club.
 
George Carney, Sherwood Cares founder and president said, “We are humbled by the continued generosity of our members and local community that enables us to make high-impact contributions to local nonprofits.”
 
The evening’s Presenting Sponsor was Calbourne Cares, a group of like-minded neighbors who banded together to make a difference locally.   
 
Sherwood Cares’ mission is to serve children and families in our community by supporting programs that address educational, medical, nutrition and safety needs.  To learn more about Sherwood Cares or how to get involved, please email info@sherwoodcares.org or visit the website at sherwoodcares.org.