Benicia and Vallejo Realtors Making a Difference

Benicia realtor had an idea. Fifteen years ago she was inspired by a program run by Solano Country Special Services that gave the public the opportunity to sponsor an underprivileged child with holiday gifts. Children’s names were written on bulb ornaments and displayed in local banks. York had stopped by her bank a few days before Christmas and noticed that many bulbs were still unclaimed.

York took action and asked her fellow members of the Solano Association of Realtors to each sponsor a child. The response was immediate and overwhelming. The group’s participation became so big, that the bulb ornaments were eventually delivered directly to York.

In 1999 York took it to the next level by founding the Make a Difference breakfast Auction Fundraiser, which funds holiday gifts and summer camp scholarships for Benicia and Vallejo kids in need. As it grew, a silent auction was added to the event, hosted by The Solano Association of Realtors Foundation, the non-profit leg of Solano Association of Realtors.

This is the first year that  is an evening gala, as well as the first year it will be held at the Clock Tower. In a more lively economy, the event raised $43,000.

For $25 per person, attendees will feast on an all-you-can-eat prime rib and salmon dinner. The live auction includes items like golf at Silverado Country Club, tickets to sporting events and private sushi parties. Silent auction items include fine wines, jewelry, artwork and assorted treasures. 

Association president  hopes to raise $25,000 to $30,000 at the event this Friday. Event co-chair Vince Lucia, a Loan Originator recruited by York, says planning begins six months prior. Lucia says it’s worth the hard work, “We make a difference in the lives of people less fortunate than us.”

The foundation works with Vallejo Outreach, which screens recipients to prevent double-dipping with other philanthropic organizations. Recipients include homeless kids, foster children and children of the unemployed. Eligible kids submit a wish list and the Make A Difference committee members go on a shopping spree at Target or Toys R’ Us (which opens the store early just for them). Not only do the kids get something for Christmas, but they get something they really want.

After running the program for over a decade, York has handed the program over to co-chairs Lucia and Alex Quinzon. Over the years, York has witnessed countess acts of true generosity. “Sometimes you really do make a difference in people’s lives.”

The silent auction begins at 5:30 pm and the live auction is at 8:00 pm. Tickets are available at the r the evening of the event.