Santa MoniCARES raised $1,940 at the fourth annual Volley-Ween fundraiser event on Oct. 29 for local Santa Monica nonprofits. With Santa MoniCARES matching the donation, a total of $3,880 will be donated to support those facing food insecurity this winter season.
"We are grateful to stand with the passionate and community-oriented organizations, businesses and residents of Santa Monica each Volley-Ween and all year round to support nonprofits serving our city," said Misti Kerns, president and CEO of Santa Monica Travel & Tourism.
Members of the community and local organizations convened at Perry's Café and Beach Rentals to take part in a spirited beach volleyball tournament supporting Santa Monica nonprofits. The Santa Monica Police Department took home the win at this year's tournament. USC & Annenberg Community Beach House won the Spirit Award and The Pierside Hotel won Best Group Costume.
"This is such a great event—we've been doing this for three years and I suggest everyone come out and participate," said Nathan Nguyen with the Santa Monica Police Department tournament-winning team.
Santa Monica Travel & Tourism and Santa MoniCARES extended appreciation to the residents and hospitality community who showed support at this year's event. Special guest and professional beach volleyball legend Sinjin Smith represented the sport.
Event sponsors included Regent Santa Monica Beach, ETC Hotels, HBX Group, Perry's Café & Beach Rentals, Downtown Santa Monica, Annenberg Community Beach House, Jeff Jarow and Actum.
Santa MoniCARES is a coalition of representatives from Santa Monica Travel & Tourism and tourism community partners. The organization's mission is to harness the hospitable nature and generosity of Santa Monica's tourism industry and provide support to local nonprofit agencies. All funds raised at Volley-Ween are donated to nonprofits in the community.
Edited by SMDP Staff