Sarah Auffret

A group of volunteers from Sun Lakes are part of a group that has been working for months to plan a fashion show, luncheon and boutique, knowing that more than 7,000 schoolchildren are counting on them to receive new clothing next fall.

Assistance League of East Valley provides new clothing, shoes and hygiene kits for children each year through fundraising events, donations and proceeds from their thrift shop at 1950 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler.

Their 24th annual fashion show and luncheon will be at noon on April 16 at the Arizona Grand Resort, with a vendor boutique opening at 9:00 a.m. Boutique items will include custom designed jewelry, apparel, handbags, home décor, linens and glassware.

Sue Niesz of Sun Lakes is co-chair for the event called “The ‘20s and all that Jazz” which will feature fashions from Dillard’s. A silent auction will include many lovely gift baskets, a hand-stitched quilt, Diamondbacks and Cardinals tickets, Gammage tickets, a resort stay and trips. Tickets for the event are $75 and are available on the website at www.assistanceleagueeastvalley.org.

“This is a chance to work with great, talented ladies to do something of value that makes a difference in the lives of others,” says Niesz, “and we’re making a huge difference.”

Elementary school children from Tempe, Mesa, Kyrene, Chandler and Gilbert school districts receive clothing from the organization after being recommended by family resource officers at their schools. The children are thrilled to receive a shopping trip to Target, or a set of two uniforms if they attend a uniform school.

The group, which includes 17 members from Sun Lakes, also provided 4,350 assault survivor kits last year to local police and fire departments containing clothing and personal care items for victims of trauma, and teddy bears for child victims. They also hold monthly birthday parties at an adult care center, provide supplemental materials to teachers, sponsor spelling bees and award 10 college scholarships.

“Everyone in the group is very dedicated to our mission,” says Barb Dubler of Sun Lakes, who has been a member for nine years. “We work together very well, we get along with each other, and I have made so many new friends. With no relatives in the area, these ladies have become like family to me.”

The Assistance League thrift shop, located at the southwest corner of Arizona Avenue and Warner in Chandler, carries boutique and everyday apparel, books, housewares, crafts, small appliances, fabric, toys and children’s clothing.

Assistance League of East Valley is part of a national nonprofit Assistance League that carries out community-based philanthropic projects. They welcome new members as well as donations of any kind.