Shelter People
The event: HomeAid Hippiefest, a flashback to the ‘60s that brought love beads, love bugs and even the Beatles--or at least look-alikes of the Fab Four--to the Irvine Marriott. Saturday’s love-in benefited HomeAid Orange County, a nonprofit organization established by the Building Industry Assn. to renovate shelters for the homeless.
In the groove: More than 400 guests showed up in full ‘60s regalia, sporting go-go boots, Birkenstocks, crocheted vests and bell-bottoms. “I didn’t think this would bring back memories, but it has,” said a tie-dyed Ron Saienni, event co-chairman.
Amid a flower-power decor that included lava lamps and peace signs, party-goers dined and danced to Big Wave Dave & the Soul Surfers. They twisted and shouted during the talent show, when building industry bigwigs impersonated the Beatles, Jefferson Airplane and Janis Joplin. “Last year we had a ‘50s hop. We’re maturing,” Saienni said.
“Peace, love and HomeAid”: Since 1989, HomeAid has built or renovated 27 homeless shelters in Orange County. Members of the local building industry donate much of the labor and materials for the shelters. “The magic is that we do this on a pro bono basis. We mobilize our resources--it’s really cool,” said Mike Lennon, executive director of HomeAid. “But you can’t get everything donated, so you have to fill in the gaps with fund-raisers.”
Quote: “Who better to build shelters than the building industry?” asked Donna Hahn, event co-chairwoman, who came as ‘60s babe Holly Golightly--complete with tiara and cigarette holder. “We can draw on carpenters, drywallers--a whole lot of people--and have a tangible effect. It’s not as heartwarming to write a check as to say, ‘Hey, I helped build that shelter.’ ”
Faces: Sandra Condello, co-founder and executive director of the Laura’s House shelter in San Clemente, who received HomeAid’s Rainbow of Hope Award; Stephen Hester, HomeAid president; Brenda Silvey; Carolyn Kubesch; Jill Harper-Yinquez; Lisa Hoover; April Wilborn; Gina Cunningham; Diane Jensen; Robin Merchant; Jeanne Pirooz; and Peggy Holt.
Bottom line: Tickets for the Hippiefest were $66 each-- a reference to Route 66--and net proceeds were expected to reach $70,000.
What’s ahead: Builders will create fantasy playhouses for auction at HomeAid’s Project Playhouse on Oct. 17 at Fashion Island Newport Beach. Admission is $15. Call (949) 553-9510.
