Thank you to the more than 200 guests who turned out to support the Navarumsunk Auxiliary’s 61st Annual Spring Luncheon, Wednesday, May 9th at Branches in Long Branch. The event is expected to raise $10,000 to benefit for FCS programs and services, including protection for vulnerable adults, home care for the frail and elderly and school-based volunteer programs designed to promote childhood well-being.
FCS CEO Delly Beekman told the gathering that, “As we approach our 110th year as an agency, we are proud of our successes addressing the difficult issues of aging, homelessness, respite and health care. We are especially grateful to the Navarumsunk Auxiliary for their generosity in support of these goals through the years. They remain an integral part of our Mission and Vision to strengthen, protect and preserve the dignity and independence of people in need.”
The annual luncheon started as a small poolside fashion show at a member’s home in Rumson in 1957. It has evolved into a major fundraising event featuring an on-site shopping boutique by Le Papillon in Rumson, a 50-50 raffle and a chance auction of 40 gift baskets containing dozens of luxury gift items and wines. This year for the first time, the nonprofit Women’s Exchange Gift Shop of Little Silver was also a vendor, selling unique gift items and handmade baby clothing. A portion of their sales will benefit FCS.
As in past years, the highlight of the Luncheon was the fashion show hosted and produced by Le Papillon owner Mary Louise Van der Wilden. Volunteer models from the auxiliary, FCS staff and friends moved about the room, sporting designs by well-known designers such as Lilly Pulitzer, Gretchen Scott, Judy Connelly and Tyler Boe.
“Beach wraps are very popular this spring,” Mary Louise informed the crowd, as she expertly described the outfits and accessories worn by every model. All the items were available for sale in the store’s special on-site boutique and 20% of the day’s proceeds went directly to FCS.
Navarumsunk Auxiliary President Arlene Lospinoso says the event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with dear, old friends, and make new ones. Some of the guests have been coming for decades.
“The outfits may change throughout the years,” Arlene explains, “but the goal is always the same; to raise money and support the agency in its effort to help people at challenging times in their lives.”
Founded in 1957, the Navarumsunk Auxiliary of FCS adopted its name from the Native American tribe that inhabited the Rumson-Fair Haven peninsula. Today’s nearly 30 members are always seeking new ones! If you are interested in joining or for more information about the Auxiliary’s fundraising events, contact FCS Development Director Diane Gribbin at 732-222-9111 or at dgribbin@fcsmonmouth.org.
View more photos from the 2018 Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show.