SoCal Connected

2009-12-08T19:09:00.000-08:00

SoCalConnected has been focusing on Outreach to TWO major ministries in our local area.

Isaiah's House is a Women's Homeless Shelter

in Santa Ana, CA.

About 60-80 women come to this shelter to eat a hot meal

and sleep on a mat (inside or outside).

After working with these women in this past year, we have been beyond BLESSED by their spirits, perspective, and perseverance.

Volunteers from Saddleback Covenant Church,

and local High Schools have come to serve

in ANY way they can.

It has truly given these women HOPE that people DO care...

WE CARE!

If you would like to know more, or volunteer, or donate to this Shelter,

please contact us at socalconnected@yahoo.com.

We will CONNECT you!

There are ALWAYS ways you can help...

whether it be socks, blankets, food, or time,

the women of Isaiah's House will be grateful!

Thank You to ALL who have served!

Christmas Craft Night at Lighthouse

2009-12-08T18:55:00.001-08:00

Saddleback Valley Christian School student, Mysaki,

is doing her Senior Project on Lighthouse and boy...oh, boy...

is she making a difference!

Her love for the crew at Lighthouse is contageous

and spreading (in a good way)!!

She single-handedly taught this Christmas Craft to 50 kids

all by herself!

They loved it!

These ornaments will be hanging on Lighthouse's Christmas Tree,

along with a gift for this amazing ministry for individuals with Special Needs.

If you, or someone you know,

would like to help donate your time or give a gift to this organization,

please contact socalconnected@yahoo.com.

We will CONNECT you!

The Lighthouse is held at Coast Hills Church in

Orange County from 7-8:30pm.

The news has spread about how awesome and FUN this group is!

Please join us and spread some love!

Game Night at Isaiah's House

2009-12-08T18:46:00.000-08:00

Isaiah's House is full to the brim with volunteers this time of year!

Saddleback Valley Christian School and JSerra students united

for a night of games, coffee, and dessert!

These students didn't hesitate to dive into helping the women in this shelter.

They served with joy and brought laughter into this House!

Thank you to EACH and EVERY student who came and

made a difference in these women's lives.

It's amazing that playing a game of Yahtzee with someone can actually

make a tremendous impact and difference in their lives...

Students...You proved that to be true!

Keep it up!

Thanksgiving at Lighthouse

2009-12-08T18:29:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU to ALL our Lighthouse volunteers that helped out at

their Thanksgiving Dinner Night!

From serving food, to buttering bread, to preparing the buffet table, and finally to cleanin' up the kitchen after all that dining...

you ALL made such an incredible impact on our amazing friends at Lighthouse!

Thank you to Mandi and Heidi for organizing such an awesome event

that blessed so many people.

The Lighthouse is ALWAYS looking for people to show love and impact those with Special Needs.

If you, or someone you know, is interested in volunteering at Lighthouse, please contact us at socalconnected@yahoo.com.

We will CONNECT you...

and you WILL be blessed!

And bless others!!

Students joining together to serve others...

2009-11-17T15:38:00.000-08:00

Saddleback Valley Christian School and JSerra High School students are joining together at Isaiah's House for some yummy dinner service (with a smile)! It's amazing to see teens reach out AND to hear the lessons they learned... change of perspective once you actually interact with the homeless. They are just like anyone else, except they are in a time of great need!

Cupcake Club

2009-11-17T15:16:00.001-08:00

JSerra students are stepping out and reaching others inour local community.
"The Cupcake Club" goes out to local shelters/lower-income housing and celebrates the children's birthday who live there. They bring presents, games, cupcakes, and lots of love to these precious little ones. They are currently working with Family Assistance Ministries in South Orange County.

Isaiah's House- Ladies' Manicure Night October

2009-11-17T15:04:00.000-08:00

This is the 3rd month that this "Book Club" has gone to the shelter to bless the women with manicures. It all started by reading a book about a person who was homeless. The book sparked conversation...which lead to questions...which lead to action! This is how barriers are broken and questions are answered...by DOING rather than wondering... by investing, rather than sitting back and watching! Be Encouraged and Be Brave...Take action!

Lighthouse Costume Party

2009-10-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Another incredible night with the Lighthouse Crew! Mandi is leading this group and blessing everyone involved, including us! We love you guys!! You walk away inspired and encouraged by this wonderful group. See you next time...

Holiday Boutique Fundraiser 2009

2009-10-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

Ladies…
Come STOP and SHOP!
Saddleback Covenant Church’s Holiday Boutique
This will be an evening for ladies for fellowship, shopping, food and fun for all!! We will have give-aways, a variety of vendors, refreshments, and live music. A portion of the proceeds will go toward supporting SoCal Connected-outreach opportunities meeting local needs, such as homeless shelters in our area, as well as supporting our Women’s Ministry. Please bring your friends and support all the wonderful vendors and ministries!!!
Please Note:
** If you bring a canned food item, you will receive a raffle ticket for one of our give-aways. The food will go directly to a local food back that serves many in need in the Southern California area**
When: November 12th, 6-0pm
Where: SCC 23401 Madero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA
For more information, you can visit www.socalconnected.blogspot.com
or call the church office at (949)770-0291.

Isaiah's House- Home Group given' some love

2009-10-21T14:07:00.000-07:00

The Norton Home Group has been growing relationships with the women at Isaiah's House for a year now, and the love keeps comin'! Our kareoke night didn't turn out b/c of the rain, but there's always some way to give a blessing. This evening was full of conversation, manicures, and backrubs! The ladies loved the attention...and deserved it! Thank you, Home Group!!!

Lighthouse Art Night

2009-10-21T13:42:00.000-07:00

It was such an honor to teach the Lighthouse Crew a fun craft for the evening! They were awesome!! They painted self-portraits and made frames with fun scrapbook paper, buttons, and other embellishments. What an amzing group of friends we have in this ministry. So gifted and talented and willing to try anything! Can't wait for next time!

Another Manicure Night at Isaiah's House

2009-10-08T06:57:00.000-07:00

It was another successful night of fun manicures for the ladies at Isaiah's House. A little treat to brighten their lives and let them know someone cares. It's easy to spread joy...listening, caring, and loving.

Lighthouse Night!

2009-09-29T06:36:00.000-07:00

Lighthouse has been a blessing for us to be a part of! These phenomenal kids bring joy to every person they meet. This night was full of songs, worship, "potty hockey," and a little discussion on being unique and special. Lighthouse would LOVE more volunteers to come and be a part of this amazing ministry. Email socalconnected@yahoo.com if interested.

Holiday Boutique Fundraiser 2009

2009-09-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

Attention Vendors!

It is time for our 3rd Annual Holiday Boutique Fundraiser! This year we are holding it at Saddleback Covenant Church in Mission Viejo on Thursday, November 12th. The proceeds will be going towards our Women's Ministry AND SocalConnected, a ministry dedicated to meeting the local needs in our community.

If you are a vendor and would like to participate in this year's event, please email Jeanne Larson at socalconnected@yahoo.com. Please send me your business name, the items you would like to sell, and any other contact information.

There is a $15 Fee to be a vendor and we ask that a percentage of your proceeds be donated to this fundraiser. The percentage is up to you! We hope this boutique will be a wonderful opportunity for ALL vendors, a great night of fellowship with women, and have money raised in the end in order to bless others!

Hope to hear from you!! More info to come!

Jeanne Larson

Isaiah's House- Ladies' Manicure Night

2009-09-09T18:01:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all the ladies at SCC that blessed the women at Isaiah's House with manicures and even some pedicures! What a precious night to spend time with these women. We were the ones who walked away blessed!

Mercy Warehouse

2009-08-24T07:07:00.000-07:00

Saddleback Covenant Church hosted VBS this August and brought in nearly 100 children! The "Missions" portion of VBS was to bring in canned food for The Mercy Warehouse. The bin was overflowing by the end of the week! Thank you to ALL of the children for reaching out and meeting the need!!

Since then, several people have asked if they could bring in old clothes and other items to donate to the warehouse. You are WELCOME to do that! If anyone has items you would like to give to Mercy Warehouse, please see www.mercywarehouse.com for the address and hours of operation. They would LOVE to receive your items and then give them back to the commmunity! It's a Win-Win for everyone!

Stay tuned for Drives that SoCalConnected will be hosting! A portion of our collections will be going to Isaiah's House, Mercy Warehouse, and others in need.

The Lighthouse Summer Dance Party

2009-08-24T06:58:00.000-07:00

"Mock Rock" at the Lighthouse

2009-08-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

"Mock Rock" 2009 was the better than the VMA's! They rocked the house to The Beach Boys, ZZ Top, Madonna, and more!

May Kareoke Night at Isaiah's House

2009-08-24T06:33:00.001-07:00

One of the ladies' favorite activities is KAREOKE! It lets them get them get into the spolight and perform with passion! Man...some of these ladies can sing!

Puppet Night at Lighthouse

2009-05-13T18:18:00.001-07:00

Kareoke Night with the wonderful ladies of Isaiah House

2009-04-03T13:11:00.000-07:00

Sock and Sweatshirt Drive

2009-02-16T10:34:00.000-08:00

HELP WARM THE HOMELESS in our COMMUNITIES

Donate used or new socks and sweatshirts...

drop them off at Saddleback Covenant Church between

Sunday, February 22nd and Sunday, March 1st.

There is a great need at this time of year for warmth on the streets. We have relationships with many shelters and street ministries, including Isaiah House, that we will be distibuting the items to. Thank you in advance for your support!

Please contact Jeanne at 949-939-9540 to set up another drop off location at your school, house or business.

A HUGE thank you to Pioneer Middle School, Saddleback Valley Christian School and Capistrano Beach Calvary School for already hosting coat drives and for brainstorming big ideas to help the homeless in our local communities. It's exciting to see kids and adults of all ages coming up with ideas on how they can help and better serve those in need around us. THANK YOU!

Lighthouse Valentine's Dance

2009-02-16T10:05:00.001-08:00

Another great night at Lighthouse! If you would like to go along with us on a Monday night, please contact us.

Serving at Isaiah's House

2009-02-16T09:52:00.000-08:00

GAME NIGHT at Isaiah House in Santa Ana. This was a lot of fun!

Isaiah House of the Orange County Catholic Worker has served poor people with dignity since 1987. Located in Santa Ana's eastside barrio on Cypress Street, this house of hospitality is open to people in need. Isaiah House offers formal meals for the homeless daily, shelter for homeless families and women, bags of food and clothing, showers, emergency assistance, a relaxing backyard, and always a friendly ear and kind words of support. If you are interested in making a trip to Isaiah House with us please contact us. We are hoping to do more game nights and even a Kareoke Night in the upcoming weeks.

Lighthouse Christmas Party

2009-01-29T21:36:00.000-08:00

If anyone is interested in joining the SoCal crew in helping those with Special Needs, please let us know.

Next event is a Valentine Dance Friday, February 13th in San Clemente from 6:30-9pm. Call us at
(949)939-9540 or email socalconnected@yahoo.com.

Great Fun at the Christmas Party

2008-12-07T22:08:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU!

2008-12-07T21:59:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who helped to make the Christmas Event such a success! Tons of Saddleback Covenant friends, family and neighbors joined to make this such a special day. Here's some pictures to show what a great day it was for these kids and for us!

Adopt Local Families Update!

2008-11-28T09:30:00.001-08:00

We want to thank everyone who has signed up to adopt a child or family for our Christmas Event taking place on Saturday, December 6th! Almost ALL of the gifts have been purchased for each child! Here are some details we know so far about the day. Specific info will be discussed the morning of the event.

The 35 families have been adopted by SoCalConnected as well as The Gate Church. Each child will be given four gifts: pajamas, shoes, a book, and a game. To prevent confusion and disorder, the Even Start directors will collect the gifts in a classroom at Kinoshita Elementary School in San Juan, where the event is taking place. Later that morning, the directors will give the gifts to each family on by one.

There are a few jobs that need to be filled for that day:
1. At least 3 people needed for the Cookies and milk station to distribute to families. This group will be responsible for setting up & cleaning up the station as well.
2. At least 6 people needed to run game stations:
* Ring Toss (or something like that)
* Basketball toss
3. At least 3 people needed to run Craft station. This group will also set it up and clean-up afterwards.
4. Someone is needed to BUY and BRING the cookies and milk for that day for 150 people. Two families could help with this job. You are NOT responsible for paying for the items unless you want to contribute. Money will be given to you.
5. Someone is needed to be in charge of the Craft Station, including BUYING the supplies. You are NOT responsible for paying for these items yourself.
If you still would like to help financially, here are some suggestions:
1. Cookies and milk still need to be purchased. We do have funds to dip into, but this is an option if you want to contribute towards.
2. Same with the Crafts!
3. It was recommended to purchase: Wal-Mart and Payless Shoes Gift Cards, as well as OC Transit Bus Passes (monthly) for families in this program. The bus passes are around $26 for a month and allows children to get to school.

If you are still interested in helping with any of these options, whether it be financially, or attending the day of the event to help out, please contact us at socalconnected@yahoo.com or call Jeanne at (949)939-9540. In your email, please let us know WHAT you are interested in doing from the above list.

Thank you SO much for your generosity and support for these deserving families!

Lighthouse Thanksgiving Meal...a BIG THANK YOU!

2008-11-28T09:18:00.000-08:00

Lighthouse Thanksgiving Meal

We want to THANK the Lighthouse crew for allowing us to share in the Thanksgiving meal service on Monday. It was an incredible experience for the SoCal Team that will leave an imprint on the hearts of each person we met.
Lighthouse is a non-profit organization for individuals with special needs (ages 12 and up, with mostly adults). Once a week, they meet together, play games, sing songs, and listen to a brief encouraging message. The volunteers that work on a weekly basis are full of love, joy, sincere compassion and care for each and every person there. They give their whole hearts to serving and creating an environment where those with special needs can feel safe, loved and express themselves freely. And freely they did…
My favorite part was seeing them sing loudly and dance with all their might to worship songs. You could tell their spirits were uninhibited and joyful in the biggest sense of the word! I loved it and will never forget their sweet faces and beautiful voices!
On behalf of Dave and I, we want to thank our SoCal Team for using your gifts and care and helping out where needed. You made a difference that night! We also want to thank the parents for allowing us to share this special night with your children. Finally, thank you to those that come to Lighthouse. You brightened our evening and brought smiles to our faces that didn’t fade till the next day. We can’t wait to come back again!
If you would like to volunteer at Lighthouse on Monday nights from 7pm-8:30, please email Jeanne at socalconnected@yahoo.com.

Pre-Thanksgiving Service Opportunity

2008-11-21T21:03:00.000-08:00

This Monday, November 24th, members of SoCalConnected will be serving a Thanksgiving meal to individuals with Special Needs (ages 12 to 40). The event takes place at Coast Hills Church in Aliso Viejo at 7pm-8:30pm in Room 101.

We are gearing up to not only serve a meal, but also build relationships and make memories with those that could use love and care during a special holiday season. We have room for up to 5 more volunteers who would like to participate in this activity. If you are interested in reaching out and serving this Thanksgiving, please call Jeanne or Dave Larson at (949)939-9540 or email us at socalconnected@yahoo.com.

Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving!

Adopt Local Families for Christmas

2008-11-17T20:01:00.000-08:00

The time is quickly approaching for the Christmas holiday! Around this time last year, many of you adopted families in Project Sleighbells through the OC Rescue Mission. It was a wonderful experience being a part of a program where gifts and love were hand-delivered to families in great need. Not only were we able to give to those who have so little, but also be blessed in the process of giving a word of encouragement to families that needed it most.

This year we are adopting 35 deserving families right here in San Juan Capistrano. They are all a part of Even Start Family Literacy Program in the Capo Unified School District. Each family is considered low-income and have gone through the qualification process and made a commitment to this long-term literacy program. The school district has come alongside each family with parent and child classes, accountability, and reading programs to equip each adult and child to increase their literacy. The goal is to help these individuals become active and English-literate members in our schools and communities.

A Christmas Event will be held Saturday, December 6th at 10am in San Juan Capistrano. At this time we will have an opportunity to hand-deliver our gifts and spend time with these families. Details and exact location of the event are still to come.

Each person will receive a gift of $15- $20 value, given directly to them on the day of the event. If you would like to adopt a child or adult, OR a family, please email us at socalconnected@yahoo.com or call (949)939-9540. Let us know if you would like to adopt a child, adult, or family in your response. In order to help you with your shopping, we will email you the age and gender of the individual . Also, please let us know if you will be able to attend the Christmas gathering on Dec.6th. You CAN still purchase gifts even if you cannot attend the gathering. Please contact us about arranging a pick up.

Thank you so very much for your help during these tough times for many!

Blessings,

The SoCal Connected Team

THANK YOU!

2008-11-17T19:04:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who participated in the Food Drive. We were able to collect a whole truck load of food to deliver to Mercy Warehouse. We had quite a few contributors including Saddleback Covenant Church members, several neighborhoods, schools and the YMCA. It's neat to see how much we can collect when the word spreads.

Another big THANK YOU to all who participated in the Holiday Boutique. It was a great night of fellowship and shopping and it really blessed many vendors with their businesses. I'm so impressed by how many talented crafters were there! Each vendor donated a portion of their proceeds and we were able to make $500 towards SoCalConnected's future outreaches. In fact $70 was used right away this past Sunday to purchase and deliver needed supplies to the Fire Relief Shelter at Katella Highschool in Anaheim.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for coming together and reaching the need!

FOOD DRIVE

2008-10-19T15:19:00.000-07:00

Food Drive for Mercy Warehouse
A food bank located in Laguna Niguel reaching out to those in need in our own local community…

Suggested Items:

Canned Stews, Soups and Vegetables
Pastas and Cereals
Canned Meat
Canned Fruit
Peanut Butter/Jelly

Collection Dates:

October 26th through November 2nd

Drop off Location:

Saddleback Covenant Church

Call 370-3952 or email us for directions and drop off times.

Also if you would like to host your own food drive that would be great! Please email us so we can arrange pick up and work out the details. Many people have decided to do their own food drive in their neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, clubs, etc... Get creative and lets see what happens!

Holiday Boutique Flyer and Directions

2008-10-19T14:59:00.000-07:00

You’re Invited
to attend our
Second Annual Holiday Boutique Fundraiser!

Please join us for an Open House with coffee, treats, and a wide variety of handmade gifts and vendors.
Just in time for the holidays, come and browse through jewelry, baby& children’s goodies & clothing, personalized embroidery galore, handmade stationary, cozy quilts, Christmas décor, Women’s Clothing, and much more!

A portion of our proceeds will be donated to
SoCalConnected- an outreach organization who reaches out and meets the needs of those in our local communities.

Come and shop for family and friends,
while blessing those who are in a time of need!

When: Wednesday, November 5th, 2008
Open House from 6pm to 9pm
Where: Erica Norton and Keely Gloude’s Home
19 Beacon Point (and next door too)
Ladera Ranch, 92694
(949) 481-5878
Parking: You will be able to park on Beacon but additional parking will be available on Roanoke. You can park on Roanoke and walk up the stairs into the end of my cul-de-sac. We will post a sign on Roanoke to make this easier for you.

Holiday Boutique...mark the date November 5th

2008-09-29T12:41:00.000-07:00

Last year we had our first Holiday Boutique at Erica Norton's home. It was a tremendous success for everyone involved. The vendors made quite a bit of money, the homemade crafters got recognized and received customers, all the ladies enjoyed shopping and time with friends, but most importantly over $800 was raised for the Orange County Rescue Mission. We were able to buy two bunk beds for their new House of Hope for women and children.

We are now planning ahead for our second annual Holiday Boutique. It will be held on Wednesday, November 5th from 6pm-9pm. Please mark your calendars and invite friends and family to join you.

This year a portion of the proceeds will be going to SoCalConnected to better help us reach out and meet the need in our local community. There are several outreach projects in the works where the proceeds will be going, such as Project Sleighbells through the OC Rescue Mission and the Cold Weather Shelter in Santa Ana.

VENDORS NEEDED!!! If you are interested in putting your craftiness into action and selling at this year's boutique or you are a vendor for a home business, please contact us asap. Whether it be sewing, beading, jewelry making, knitting, painting, or baking we would love to have you. The boutique will be held in two homes this year (Erica's and her neighbor Keely's home), however spots may be be limited if we run out of space, so please let us know asap if you are interested.
Contact Jeanne Larson: 949-939-9540

See you November 5th...

"GIVE BACK" update

2008-08-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

The "Give Back" back pack drive was a success. We collected over 50 new backpacks as well as school supplies to fill each pack. We were amazed to see the support that came from complete strangers that read about us in the newspaper or who heard about the need from a friend passing on the email. Thank you to all who donated and to all who helped spread the word. We know these backpacks will be a huge blessing to these kids and a great way for them to start off their school year on the right track.

"GIVE BACK"...School Supply Collection for Kids in Need!

2008-07-28T11:26:00.001-07:00

YOUR HELP NEEDED: We have an exciting new outreach opportunity in the upcoming weeks. Please see below for information on the cause and the background on why we are "GIVING BACK". Here are the specifics:

We are collecting any or all of the following:

Backpacks ($10-$12) at Target or Costco
#2 Pencils
12 or 24 count Crayons
Erasers
Zipper Pencil Case for Binder
Pens (Black or Blue)

DROP OFF LOCATION AND TIME:

Avendale Clubhouse: 1 Daisy Sreet, Ladera Ranch CA 92694

Monday, August 18th from 4pm-7pm

Please join us in our efforts to help children in need within the Capistrano Unified School District. By donating a NEW backpack and/or school supplies (as listed), you can equip a child to begin the school year confidently and prepared to learn and grow in their education.

We aim to reach 1,200 students that fall under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act, as well as the hundreds who are in a home that is considered below poverty level. It is shocking to see the number is so high, but this is a reality… right here in our own neighborhoods. As we shop and prepare for the Fall with our own children, purchasing supplies and backpacks, let us be reminded of those who cannot afford the same luxury. A simple backpack, pack of crayons, or pencils, will ultimately help their school year be more comfortable, and possibly more successful.

Thank you for your support and help as we strive to make a difference for our children’s future. Every backpack, every pencil, and every effort is appreciated and will truly impact those that are in need! Help us give BACK to others!

Please email us at socalconnected@yahoo.com to let us know if you would like to be involved. A simple email will help us better plan our drop off and backpack stuffing day.

Marine Outreach

2008-07-15T22:15:00.000-07:00

In May, churches and schools came together to make welcome home baskets for the marines. A group of us went down to welcome home a company of marines. What a sight to see soldiers reunited with their spouses and children.

Cold Weather Shelter Outreach

2008-07-15T21:44:00.000-07:00

This past spring we gathered over 40 volunteers, 100's of bags of clothes, toiletries and school supplies to bring to the Cold Weather Shelter in Santa Ana.
The National Guard Armory provides shelter to 300 homeless men, women and children per night, with a nutritious meal, shower, and safe place to sleep. The Society of St. Vincent De Paul provides this service and we were able to come along side them to provide volunteers, clothes and supplies. While there we were able to serve food, hand out clothes, help with homework, and most importantly love and encourage all that were there.
Thank you to the many volunteers that gave of their time and their resources.

Date Set for Work Party: Saturday, December 1st

2007-11-21T21:07:00.000-08:00

It has been a bit challenging to coordinate another effort to help the residents in Modjeska Canyon. The goal was to have access to the neighborhoods and be able to get our hands and feet working on this long process of restoration. With many phone calls to the Fire Authorities, we have finally found a great opportunity to serve this wonderful community.

Leslie Paskus Amador, who is on the Santiago Fire Relief Committee, is coordinating efforts to do specific jobs for the homes and surroundung land. Every Saturday, people from all sorts of organizations and churches will be meeting to assist with yard clean-up, filling and placing sandbags, and eventually will head to the creek for major work there. This will not be a one time effort, but rather many weeks worth of serving those who have been devasted by the firestorm.

With Thanksgiving next week, we have set a date for Saturday, December 1st. We realize this is a very busy time of year, but we do not want to lose our window of opportunity to help BEFORE the rains come. Many residents are terrified the sandbags will not be put into place and the fear of mudslides is looming. If it is possible, please encourage your church body to help those in our local area of Modjeska Canyon. They are SO grateful for the love, compassion, and assistance they have already received. We just want to keep on giving while we have the chance.

If you are interested, here are some things to
remember:
* They have shifts from 9-12 & 1-4.
* Bring work gloves, shovels and rakes (if possible)
* Masks are provided
* Wear long-sleeve, long pants, hat, and sturdy shoes

Directions to the meeting area:
* Take El Toro Road north/west into the canyon for maybe 4 or 5 miles to the modjeska Canyon Road turnoff. You can only go right. Immediately on your right is a large dirt lot with hundreds of hay bales. This is where volunteers meet up.

Thank you so very much to ALL who attended our last
clean-up day. It was an honor to help these wonderful
people and a memory we will always have. Their
gratitude made the day that much sweeter!

Please contact Jeanne Larson (Saddleback Covenant Church) if you would like to round up a group from your church or other organization. Phone Number (949) 939-9540 and e-mail is dwindlarson@yahoo.com.

In Christ,

Boogie Rose- Shoreline Church
Jeanne Larson- Saddleback Covenant Church

Modjeska Work Party Rescheduled

2007-11-14T19:58:00.000-08:00

This Saturday's work party in Modjeska Canyon has been postponed. We are currently coordinating with the Santiago Fire Relief Committee to finalize a date to help lay sandbags to protect the canyon homes from mudslides during the rainy season.

We are now trying to reschedule for Saturday, December 1st. Please check back as this information will be confirmed here on the website by the end of the week.

If you have any questions, please contact Jeanne Larson at 949-939-9540.

Thank you for your patience and flexibility!

Making a Difference

2007-11-05T19:19:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who helped with the clean-up effort in Modjeska Canyon on Saturday, November 3rd. Your time and energy were very much appreciated and certainly made an impact to those who lives have been effected by the recent fires!

To view the Orange County Register's coverage of the event, please click here: Link

To view a slide show of the event, please click here: Link

Please check back soon, as we will be coordinating an effort in a few weeks to lay sandbags to protect homes from mudslides as the rainy season approaches.

We Need Your Muscles!- NEW UPDATED INFO & DIRECTIONS

2007-10-30T16:52:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, November 3rd, a work party is being organized to help fire victims in the Modjeska Canyon area. Volunteers will either be working inside the homes (cleaning, doing laundry, cleaning out unbelieveably gross refrigerators) or outdoors (landscaping and pressure washing). This is basic clean-up, but remember we are coming not to just clean-up, but to encourage people who have gone through an amazingly scary, lonely time where they have come face to face with the fragility of their humanity. Upon arrival, all volunteers will be briefed on basic training for listening and encouraging the families we will be serving.

VERY IMPORTANT: PLEASE ARRIVE BEFORE 9:00 AM. We appreciate you staying to help for as long as you can.

DIRECTIONS:
Take the 5 freeway to El Toro Road and head east for just over 7 miles (you will pass Saddleback Community Church and enter into the canyon area). When you get to Cook's Corner (there is large sign) you will veer to the left which is Santiago Canyon Road (to the right is Live Oak Canyon). Take Santiago Canyon Road for about 2.7 miles. Take a right at Modjeska Canyon (this is the most important road to find and we will have a 1970 Blue Dodge Pick-up to check you in at the corner to help guide you in). After checking in, you will drive for around a mile, passing Markuson Street on your right and then take a left at the DO NOT ENTER sign, that is also called Modjeska Canyon. Our Command Post will be on the right in front of a resident's home. It is here that you will be briefed and then sent out.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFO:
-Cell phone reception is very spotty, but if you get lost, please call 949-584-9387
-If you would like to bring breakfast and coffee for a family or families (probably closer to 7:30-8:00 am) it would be very much appreciated
-Plan on bringing your own food and water, please!
-Plan on getting dirty
-If you have cleaning supplies and tools, please bring them (rags, cleaner, trash bags)
-If you have or can get a truck, please bring it
-If you have landscaping tools (shovels, wheelbarrows, clippers, saws, chansaws, etc.) please bring them
-If possible, bring a light, white particle face mask if you have breathing problems
-Plan on laughing and crying

If you have questions or would like to sign-up, please call Jeanne at 949-429-8977.

One Great Way to Help is Financially

2007-10-29T22:07:00.000-07:00

All of your tax deductible donation will go to the fire relief, restoration and recovery. Please encourage your friends, school or work to get involved!

Checks can be mailed and made payable to:

Saddleback Covenant Church (SCC)
23401 Madero, Ste. A
Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Please write "Fire Relief" on the memo line

Relief Provided So Far...

2007-10-29T21:43:00.000-07:00

With the help of local vendors, churches and generous individuals, we were able to send between $9,000 and $10,000 worth of products to the evacuees at El Toro High School, Del Mar Fairgrounds, Shoreline Church in Oceanside and The Rock Church in San Diego, all within the first four days of the wildfires' onset.

In moments like these, you realize how many things in life are easily taken for granted. We delivered bulk items such as: diapers, pillows, socks and underwear. Other items delievered were in response to specific needs: a pacifier to soothe a fussy baby, puzzles to help children pass the time, maternity pants for a pregnant woman, socks to warm an elderly woman's feet and shoes for a family who didn't have time to grab them when they had to evacuate their home immediatly.

All of this was done in just a few days- image what we can do over an extended period of time by coming together and offering whatever we have to give!

More to Come...

2007-10-27T23:38:00.000-07:00

In the coming weeks, it is our intent for this blog to act as a useful source of information and as a networking tool for individuals and churches wishing to get involved in the relief efforts for those whose lives were affected by the Socal Fires.

Please check back soon as this site will have a new look and feel to it as well as more detailed information about how to get involved in organizing to meet the needs of our neighbors in the community.

How Can I Help?: Update

2007-10-27T23:33:00.000-07:00

As residents of Southern California, it is difficult to watch our neighboring communities in crisis and feel as though there is nothing we can do. We are all affected by the fires that have destroyed so many homes and displaced hundreds of people.

The purpose of this blog is to connect those who want to help with those in need due to the fires in south Orange County and San Diego. We want to not only assist those who have an immediate need, but also those who will have various needs in the coming months as they try to put their lives back together.

The evacuation centers organized by the Red Cross can no longer accept donated items and are turning away individuals and groups bringing donated goods. We have worked with several church groups and have organized a donation center at Saddleback Covenant Church (not to be confused with Saddleback Community Church) for those who have purchased items to donate but have been turned away. Donations of such items will be accepted from 9:00 AM until noon Saturday, October 27 only. (See the address below.) We will deliver the donations to the evacuation centers as soon as they are prepared to accept more.
The best way to help, however, is financially. Financial donations will enable volunteers to purchase specific items for the specific needs of those who have lost their homes and those displaced due to the fires. Saddleback Covenant Church will accept checks for that purpose. (Please write your check to SCC and on the bottom notate “Fire Fund”.)
• Tax Deductible Monetary donations will be accepted until further notice.
• Donated items will be collected on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27TH from 9:00 AM until NOON at the following location:

Saddleback Covenant Church
23401 Madero, Ste. C
Mission Viejo, CA 92691

For directions and/or map: http://www.saddlebackcovenant.com/location.html

Please call this number ONLY for information on making a monetary donation: 949-770-0291. Any other questions can be posted in the comments on this blog. We will get back to you as soon as possible.

Thank you for your patience and please check back soon!

A Successful Morning

2007-10-27T15:25:00.001-07:00

Saddleback Covenant Church bustled with activity this morning as Orange County residents arrived with goods for the victims of the numerous southland fires. The donation center collected dozens of bags of food, clothing, toiletries and bedding, boxes of books and flats of water bottles to be stored and delivered to the San Diego area Red Cross.

Thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers who assisted at the donation center this morning. Your help in unloading, loading, sorting, counting, etc. was very much appreciated. Thank you for volunteering your time, energy and vehicles!

A special thank you to the Heinrichs for organizing the donation center and coordinating with the Red Cross staff, to Saddleback Covenant Church for the use of facilities and to Stor-It Self Storage who so generously donated storage space.

How Can I Help?

2007-10-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

As residents of Southern California, it is difficult to watch our neighboring communities in crisis and feel as though there is nothing we can do. We are all affected by the fires that have destroyed so many homes and displaced hundreds of people.

The purpose of this blog is to connect those that want to help with those who have a need. We want to not only assist those who have an immediate need, but also those who will have various needs in the coming months as they try to put their lives back together.

The evacuation centers cannot accept any more donation items at this time and are turning away individuals and groups bringing donated goods. We have worked with several church groups and have organized a donation center at Saddleback Covenant Church (not to be confused with Saddleback Community Church) for those who have purchased items to donate but have been turned away.

Donation items will be collected on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27TH from 9:00 AM until NOON at the following location:

Saddleback Covenant Church
23401 Madero, Ste. C
Mission Viejo, CA 92691

For directions and/or map: http://www.saddlebackcovenant.com/location.html

We will deliver the donations to the evacuation centers as soon as they are prepared to accept more.

The best way to help, however, is financially. Financial donations will enable volunteers to purchase specific items for those who have lost their homes and those displaces due to the fires. Saddleback Covenant Church will accept checks for that purpose. (Please write your check to SCC and notate in the memo: "Fire Fund.")

Please call the following number ONLY for information on making a monetary donation: 949-770-0291. Any other questions can be posted in the comments on this blog. We will get back to you as soon as possible.