An Afternoon of Hope and Jazz to Benefit Homeless Youth in Orange County, Sunday, Oct. 11

The Orange County Department of Education has identified over 22,000 school-age children living on the streets, in shelters, or motels due to economic hardship. The Project Homeless Outreach Program in Education (HOPE) School Foundation is presenting an Afternoon of Hope and Jazz fundraiser to raise awareness about the homeless outreach program, based in the city of Orange. The event will be held at the Peak Estate 25522 Nellie Gail Road in Laguna Hills on Sunday, October 11 at 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

“There is so much support from the community for this event-- area businesses and residents are donating their time and resources to make this happen,” says Diane Barrows, of Laguna Hills, director of mission services at St. Joseph Hospital and Project HOPE School Foundation board member.

Guests will enjoy appetizers, desserts and wine while listening to live jazz performed by the Peak Experience Jazz Ensemble. Collectively, the group has played with performers including Ray Charles, Dionne Warwick, Harry Mancini, Lou Rawls and other major entertainers. A wide variety of silent auction items will be also be available at the event.

“We hope that this event will let the community know that The Project HOPE School Foundation exists to provide financial and community support to the only school dedicated to providing quality education and a positive life experience to homeless children in Orange County,” adds Barrows.

While the Orange County Department of Education provides teachers and classrooms, the Project HOPE School Foundation raises funds to provide transportation, childcare, music education, field trips, counseling, access to medical care, and food and clothing when needed. Foundation members also partners with the Physical Rehabilitation Department at St. Joseph Hospital in Orange for the Annual Christmas Party that provides presents and entertainment to hundreds of school-age children.