LIVIN' LA 'VINO' LOCA

For a Vera important cause

Partygoers raise funds to support center for youths, families in crisis

A happy hour without a bar tab? Without any office gossip or less-than-positive results of over-imbibing? And for a good cause? That was just the case Tuesday at Vino with Vera, an event described as a cocktail-hour fundraiser for Vera Lloyd Presbyterian Family Services.

About 80 guests showed up at the historic Joseph W. House dwelling in Little Rock's Quapaw Quarter and were welcomed by homeowners Julie C. Robbins and John Pugh and members of the event host committee. Attendees were encouraged to make donations as they signed in and enjoyed wines provided by Glazer's as well as catfish, hush puppies, chicken wings and chips and dip from Soul Fish Cafe.

A short program began with a prayer by retired Judge Marion Humphrey, senior pastor of Allison Memorial Presbyterian Church. It continued with remarks by Donna Mahurin, chief executive officer of Vera Lloyd. "We like to do a little more than just meet the basic needs" of the children served, Mahurin pointed out, referencing the piano and guitar lessons, tutoring, summer camp and college tours available. "We want them to be successful."

Robbins, a Crossett native and board member, spoke of being "greatly humbled by the hard work that Vera Lloyd does" and testified to the positive impact on residents of the facility, which serves youths ages 6 to 17.

The event took in close to $7,000. The agency serves children, youths and families in crisis at its Monticello residential facility, emergency shelter, therapeutic group home, respite-care facility and counseling center. Administrative offices are in Little Rock.

High Profile on 07/16/2017

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