As we step into the season of giving,
the weeks ahead invite us to reflect on
gratitude, connection, and the simple
ways we can uplift one another. With
Thanksgiving and the holidays upon us,
there’s a quiet sense of joy in the air—
one that reminds us how good it feels
to come together in service
and community.
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Adopt-a-Family Kickoff
This is the time of year when we come together
to support families who could use extra care.
This coming Wednesday (Nov. 19th), we’ll kick
off our Adopt-A-Family program by assembling
food baskets for five families selected through
the Mar Vista Family Center.
We look forward to this special event and
the joy it brings to both our families
and our members.
Laurie Bird, a Friend of Rotary and sister-in-law
of Rob Bird, along with her quilting class, are
excited to donate handmade quilts to the families
of the Adopt-A-Family program. Laurie and Steve
have been long-time supporters of PVSR. These
quilts, stitched with loving hands, are a beautiful
testament to open hearts and the true spirit
of service and giving back.
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The Jacaranda School for Children
It was a joy to have Marie Da Silva, founder of
the Jacaranda School for Children, join us and
share an inspiring update on the school’s impact
—especially in supporting children who need
medical care. Marie also spoke about the “Goat Project,” through which PVS members have
purchased goats to help women sustain their
families. This initiative has been a tremendous
gift, bringing lasting benefit to many
in the community.
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Nissim Leon On CARES
It was inspiring to hear Nissim Leon, Chief of Operations for CARES, share the history and impact of the Los Angeles County General Medical Center’s child and family program. CARES administers and distributes the bears we create at Build-a-Bear, offering comfort to ill children and those seeking treatment at LA General. With over 25 years of service, Nissim’s heart-centered insights and
enthusiasm made clear how deeply this
program uplifts the lives of many.
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📸 Wednesday Meeting Captures
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Rise Against Hunger
Rise Against Hunger works globally to fight food
insecurity by providing volunteer-packed meals
and support through school feeding programs.
PVS joined Rotarians from other clubs and local
organizations for a powerful day of service—
nearly 200 volunteers came together and
packaged 60,000 meals in just three hours.
It was no small feat, as Dave, Evan, Susan, Dean, John, Brady, and Martha can attest.
Afterwards, four of us unwound over a warm,
welcoming lunch at Playa Hacienda.
A shout out to David Henseler, from South Bay
Sunrise Rotary for leading this event. PVS was
proud to present Dave and Aaron Cruz, Rise
Against Hunger, with our support check of $500.
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Inglewood Bingo Night
The western theme set a warm, welcoming tone
for the Inglewood Club’s Bingo Night. We enjoyed
lively music, exciting raffles, and delicious food.
The main event—expertly run by our very own Gail and Rob, with wonderful support from PVSR
members Lisa, Jan, Matthew, and Martha—kept
everyone energized and fully engaged as they
vied for cash prizes. It was a truly fun and
memorable evening!
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Build-A-Bear
What an amazing turnout for the PVSR
Build-A-Bear event—nearly 50 members,
guests, and families joined us, making it our largest gathering yet. The outpouring
of love for the hospitalized children who will
receive these bears was truly heartwarming.
Because of the amazing support, fifty-one
bears are now on their way to the
CARES facility.
A huge thank you to everyone who participated,
and especially to Kathrine and her dedicated PVSR
partner, Gail, for their commitment to bringing
joy to the children at the LA County General
Hospital and for organizing our
Build-A-Bear event.
In deep appreciation to Lisa for graciously
hosting us with a truly delicious four-course
dinner at Cantalini’s after the Build-A-Bear
event. Moments of fellowship like this are
priceless and deeply appreciated. ___________________________________
Rotarians Around Town
Rain or shine the USC spirit shines on.
Braving the elements were Rotarians Courtney and Gwen and Honorary
Member, Garrett.
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Events This Week
Westchester Seniors'
Thanksgiving Dinner November 21st
📍Westchester Senior Citizens Center
⏰ 11 AM - 2 PM ___________________________________
Events Coming Up
Happy Hour December 4th ⏰ 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Mark your calendar for a special Happy Hour
hosted by the Connell’s! ___________________________________
Holiday With MVFC December 6th
📍Mar Vista Family Center
5075 S Slauson Ave.
Culver City, CA
⏰ 11 AM - 2 PM 🎁🎄 Individual Tickets: $50
Family Tickets: $100
Event Toy Drive: Bring a toy
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First Saturday Stroll December 6th
📍Westchester Triangle
⏰ 4 PM - 7 PM
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2026 Rotary Rose Parade Float
The 2026 Rotary Rose Parade Float is one of
the largest and most ambitious Rotary has ever created and decorators are needed to help bring
this float to life. This is an incredible hands on
experience you will never forget.
To sign up to decorate - Go to: www.rotaryfloat.org/decorator-signups/
Imagine sharing with friends and family which
flower you placed on our anticipated
award-winning float!
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WE’RE PROUD TO BE PLAYA
VENICE ROTARIANS
“LET’S GROW - LET’S GLOW!”
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PLAYA VENICE SUNRISE ROTARY Serving our Community since 2005
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