Shakti Rising Fundraiser! San Diego Non Profits

Last weekend I photographed a fundraiser thrown by the sweet and talented Val Myers-Matthews.  The fundraiser was for a wonderful non profit organization called Shakti Rising, "a social change organization transforming the lives of women and girls, and the larger community."  I first heard about this organization from Val's daughter, Paige, who has been a volunteer there for some time.  Lots of talented volunteers put in time and effort to raise money and several businesses generously donated time, services, and products.  There were three big baskets, a painting, and jewelry for raffle prizes, and an awesome goodie bag filled with gift certificates for each of the attendees!

Some of the pretty decorations.

Volunteers from the student group Varsity Strings came out to provide the musical entertainment throughout the evening.  Thanks guys!

Some of the yummy appetizers.  On the right, butternut squash soup in a wine glass - a genius way to serve soup at a party!

Beautiful flower arrangements by Jenny at Passion Flower Studios.

Some of the guests enjoying the party!

Val thanking the donors just before the raffle winners were announced!  We heard from Shakti Rising's resource development director, Mallory, describing the positive changes donations can make in the lives of others.   One of the girls in Shakti Rising's apprentice program bravely shared her story.

I couldn't resist taking a few macro shots of these gorgeous flowers.

To learn more about this organization that's making a huge difference in the lives of hundreds of people every year, please click here: Shakti Rising.

Thanks to all the awesome people and businesses that donated their time and services:
Christiane Stefanoff of Encinitas Acupuncture
Vickie Lavanty of Vickie Lavanty Salon
Diane Harp, aromatherapy items

Painting by Rich Walker of Rawartdesign

Diamond Boutique

Fernanda Rodriguez, turquoise necklace