Casa Youth Shelter’s founder U.S. Navy Lt. Commander Myldred Jones (deceased 2006) would have been proud at the 34th anniversary “Commander’s Ball” as thousands of dollars were raised for the shelter Saturday evening at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Huntington Beach.
Board of Directors secretary Karen Klabouch announced that nearly $300,000 had been donated in goods and services for this year’s event.
Immediate past Casa Youth Shelter director Luciann Maulhardt was honored for 25 years of service to the youth shelter – receiving the first-ever “Myldred Jones Lifetime Humanitarian Award.”
“This is such a fabulous tribute and I thank you from the bottom of my heart,” a teary-eyed Maulhardt said, as she fought back tears.
“I am eternally thankful to all of you for all you have done for Casa and for me,” Maulhardt said, “And I hope you will continue to support Casa as a family should – thanks to all of you who have helped keep Casa alive – as we celebrate the past and the future – keep Casa strong.”
“I loved every day coming to my job and helping kids in crisis,” Maulhardt said. “And helping these families to make a difference in their kid’s lives.”
Maulhardt will continue with Casa Youth Shelter as a board of director’s member with the title of “director emeritus.”
“You taught me so much and I have loved every minute of being at Casa Youth Shelter and I get to continue to be involved,” Maulhardt said. “The new Executive Director Robin Sinclair has great energy and hopefully Casa will continue to be a successful organization.”
A cause close to Myldred Jones’ heart was youth homelessness and so at the age of 69, she began a new career as founder and beloved caretaker of Casa – visiting with each young person every Christmas morning along with her other duties.
In being the founder of Casa, she realized a lifelong dream to provide a safe haven for runaways and youth in crisis.
The 34th Commander’s Ball honored her life and work. “A happy and wonderful life has been my reward for sharing it with others,’ Jones had said.
For Casa Youth Shelter information, call 562-594-6825 or visit casayouthsheler.org
