Extension staffers help support local charities

Renewing an annual tradition, UC San Diego Extension raised nearly $3,000 for two San Diego-based charities during last month’s holiday season.

Local businesses donated generous prizes, including hotel stays, restaurant gift certificates, theatre tickets and more for UC San Diego Extension’s staff holiday party on Dec. 12 at the Scripps Birch Aquarium.

Extension staff bought raffle tickets and bid on the items in a silent auction event, generating $2,950 in cash donations.

The funds were donated to the Helen Woodward Animal Center, a private, nonprofit pet adoption center; and the San Diego branch of Habitat for Humanity International, a nonprofit organization that builds affordable homes for needy local families. In addition, toys and cash were donated to Toys for Tots.

Helen Woodward Animal Center

L to R: Shaily Jariwala, Activities and Events Manager, UC San Diego Extension; Kara Kilkenny, Database Coordinator/Media Specialist, Helen Woodward Animal Center; and Daphne Pleasant, Cashiering Manager, UC San Diego Extension