Willow Glen Resident
News
Next Door Solutions fundraiser uses hands to heal, not to hurt
By Laura Rheinheimer
Massage therapy, chocolate and champagne are all part of an upcoming Healing Touch Spa Party, a fundraiser for San Jose-based Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence.
Spa party organizers hope to send the message "hands are for healing, not hurting," and raise $75,000 for the nonprofit group, a Silicon Valley stronghold for helping victims of abuse.
This is the fourth year for the event, which aims to generate greater public awareness about domestic violence. The event, which takes place on Aug. 16, is sponsored by Preston Wynne Spa in the Hotel Los Gatos.
Preston Wynne Spa owner Peggy Borgman, who serves on the board of Next Door, says, "It's hard to get people talking about domestic violence."
Dori Ives, one of the event's organizers, agrees. She says that is why the fundraiser was created in a relaxed atmosphere. The setting makes it easier to learn more about a subject that is difficult to discuss, Ives says.
"Instead of being really negative about domestic violence, it's a chance for us to be positive," Ives adds. "You get a positive feeling about doing something good for women, children and men who are in dire straits."
Borgman notes, often there is a misperception that domestic violence is a socioeconomic problem, but Ives points out that people from all walks of life experience domestic violence.
At Next Door one of the programs offered is based on aiding through advocacy. The program places people who are in abusive situations with staff members who assess the individual's situation and come up with an intervention plan.
"Breaking the silence for some people takes a tremendous amount of courage, and is one of the hardest steps," Ives says.
Once an individual takes that step, Ives says, the advocates work to empower the person so the client can make the right decisions.
It's tough work, Ives says, and why expanding the nonprofit's resources and reach are so important. The fundraiser has become an integral part of that process. Last year the organization raised $53,000; in 2005 it raised $40,000.
At this year's event 40 practitioners will work to achieve the fundraising goals. These practitioners, who specialize in a variety of beauty- and spa-care treatments, will donate their time and services, which include hand and foot treatments, facial massages, makeup sessions and hair extensions.
Donors can choose from two levels of care. The $199 package includes two tickets for mini-spa treatments and spa goodie bags; the $599 package upgrades to a VIP pass to a private luxury suite with extended treatments, appetizers and champagne. This year the hotel will offer guests a discounted rate if they wish to stay overnight.
Local restaurants and wineries, including Dio Deka in Los Gatos, will cater the event. Throughout the evening participants will be able to enjoy live music or peruse the auction room, enjoying champagne and chocolate while exploring items, such as a dude ranch or Maui vacation, theater tickets or cooking classes at Sur La Table.
The fundraiser for Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence will take place on Aug. 16 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Hotel Los Gatos, 210 E. Main St. For more visit, www. nextdoor.org/events.html.
