A recent dental school retreat yielded big results for La Casa de las Madres. The University of the Pacific (UOP), Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry’s faculty and staff participated in an off-campus development day, C3 Advance (short for “community, commitment and collaboration”). The morning focused on professional development discussions and activities, while the afternoon focused on a goal outside of the school: raising money for La Casa de las Madres.
Through a survey before the event, La Casa was identified by UOP staff among other local non-profits for our ability to touch lives, and affect change and transformation for survivors of domestic violence. UOP’s parallel commitment to improving health and human services for vulnerable and at-risk members of our community was a driving force for their activity. “We wanted to make a difference. We had a common goal, and a strong one: raise money in ways we never imagined were possible for La Casa de las Madres and the families they serve,” said Emmanuel Boyd, manager of the school’s Pediatric Clinic and chair of the event’s planning committee. “I’m proud of what our school was able to accomplish for La Casa and the work that they do.”
In a matter of hours UOP raised $8,427! How did they do it? Development Day attendees split up into nine randomly selected groups of approximately 25 people each. Each group was given ninety-minutes and four paper clips, and was encouraged to “trade” the clips for items of greater value ― or use them to trade up for donations from friends, family, neighborhood contacts, etc. Groups also sold and auctioned items or experiences such as a weekend at a vacation home.
The amazing transformation of paper clips into a contribution to support the women, teens and children we serve is a remarkable feat! The creativity and resourcefulness of the staff and faculty of UOP enabled La Casa to continue providing expert violence intervention and prevent services to survivors, 24/7. We remain the only shelter in San Francisco offering immediate safety for victims of domestic violence over nights and weekends. Our two 24-hour hotlines receive over 4,000 calls every year, and each represents a critical opportunity to connect women and families with resources to ensure their safety.
Thank you to the men and women of UOP who put their ingenuity and talents into action for La Casa. This inspiring story is just one of many ways individuals can come together to create empowering opportunities for survivors of domestic violence. Organize your office, community group or gather your friends and make a difference today!
For ideas, suggestions, or support with your fundraiser, contact the development department by calling 415-503-0500 or email .
