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SPECIAL EVENT - This holiday season, join Sam and Ashan Leslie for a heartwarming evening at one of Palm Springs’ most iconic venues—the Dinah Shore Estate—to support The Laurel Foundation. With your help, we aim to raise funds that will empower children and youth affected by HIV/AIDS and transgender/gender-diverse identities through free summer camp and year-round programs.
Event Details
📅 Date: December 7, 2024
🕠 Time: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
📍 Location: The Dinah Shore Estate, Palm Springs
🎁 Guests encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy (ages 2-17)
Get your tickets now! Limited availability.
An Unforgettable Evening of Holiday Cheer
This 36th Annual Toy Drive promises to be a night to remember, with an exciting line-up of festive activities:
- Hosted Bar & Gourmet Dinner by Celebrity Chef Franco
- Raffle, Silent & Live Auctions
- Christmas Carols
- Special Announcement: 2024 Youth Empowerment Award winner
- A Chance to Make a Difference: Help send children to free summer camp
A Special Venue: The Dinah Shore Estate
Step into the elegant world of Dinah Shore, one of television’s most beloved stars, whose Palm Springs estate now belongs to actor Leonardo DiCaprio. Dinah Shore’s legacy includes not only her musical and TV achievements but also her contributions to the Palm Springs community.
Her ties to the area run deep, from founding the Colgate Dinah Shore Golf Tournament to commissioning famed architect Donald Wexler to design her home. The estate embodies Shore's passion for creativity and philanthropy—making it the perfect place to celebrate a night dedicated to empowering young lives.
About The Laurel Foundation
Founded in 1993, The Laurel Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children, youth, and families affected by HIV/AIDS and gender identity challenges. Through its free camps and mental health programs, The Laurel Foundation offers safe, empowering environments for young people to build confidence, community, and lifelong skills.
The foundation’s year-round programs include:
- Family Camps & Summer Camps
- Mentorship Retreats
- Day Programs & Support Groups
These initiatives support over 700 children, youth, and families annually, providing crucial mental health services and social support for those most in need.
Your Impact: Transform Lives this Holiday Season
By attending or sponsoring this event, you’re giving children who often face emotional, social, and mental health challenges the chance to thrive, grow, and live authentically. The Laurel Foundation’s camps have provided life-changing experiences for thousands of kids who once felt isolated in their struggles with HIV/AIDS or gender identity.
As we celebrate the season of giving, let’s make a meaningful impact by ensuring every child has the opportunity to experience the joys of camp—and discover that they are not alone.
Special Recognition
In 2022, the Youth Empowerment Award was presented to Cher and Chaz Bono for their activism in supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Prior recipients include Jamie Lee Curtis. This year’s recipient will be announced soon—stay tuned for this exciting reveal!
Join Us in Making a Difference
Get your tickets today and be part of this magical holiday evening at the Dinah Shore Estate. With your support, we can continue to create spaces where children can feel safe, empowered, and celebrated.
✨ Limited tickets available—secure yours now!
For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit our website. Together, let’s give the gift of joy, hope, and empowerment this holiday season.
