2 weeks Ago By Karenna Meyers
Since founding Vallejo Together in 2010, Maria Guevara’s advocacy for the unsheltered, whom she lovingly called “friends in need,” continues to power the organization four years after her death. Inspired by Guevara’s legacy, Vallejo Together will host its first annual Maria Guevara Gala to honor her impact and raise funds in support of “our neighbors without shelter being moved from campsite to campsite.” The gala is set for Sept.
27, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Moose Lodge #468 located at 337 Nebraska St.
Tickets range from $100 each to $500 for a table with proceeds helping purchase mobile basic needs items. “One ticket sold will cover the cost of a tent, sleeping bag, solar charger and solar lantern for someone who needs it,” wrote Vallejo Together Executive Director Dionne Carter in a Facebook post. While the event is an opportunity for reflection and includes a recognition ceremony, it also embraces the signature light and love that Guevara brought to every corner of Vallejo.
Born in Manila, Philippines, Guevara was adopted at age two and raised by Lourdes and Edgardo Guevara. She then moved to the United States at nine years old and grew up in Vallejo, where she attended elementary school and eventually graduated from Vallejo High School. In addition to her work with Vallejo Together, Guevara established Aaliyah’s Closets in honor of a 9-year old girl who died while living in a car.
In partnership with the school district, Aaliyah’s Closets provided essential clothes, food, and hygiene products to students and families in need. Guevara also established a Support Services Center, which she envisioned as a navigation center, in partnership with the Mira Community Cultural Center and Vallejo’s First Baptist Church. The center provided meals, computer and printer access, a mailing address, as well as shower and laundry facilities.
“Hers was a life of joyful service, faith and community. In a city with a shortage of programs, Maria was the angel to whom people turned for resources and hope,” read a statement in Guevara’s obituary. “When asked how she did it all, she said, ‘Love explodes.
That’s how it works.’” The Hawaiian-themed gala steers away from typical formal attire and instead encourages guests to wear their floral shirts and flip flops in honor of Guevara. The event will offer guests an array of light bites and complimentary champagne, with a mixture of open and reserved seating providing opportunities to mingle.
In a brief yet uplifting program, the evening will feature keynote speakers, a message from Vallejo Together Board President Jackie Jones and a program update by Carter. The event will include opportunities to win gifts from Moose-Lodge-sponsored raffles and there will also be a no-host bar. To close the evening, the gala’s DJ will provide music to send guests off dancing.
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