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Transformed Treasures raises money for the ARC’s Pinehurst Program for Women.
By Cindy Engler
This year in San Fransisco, The Salvation Army’s annual Transformed Treasures—a silent and live auction of work by Bay Area artists using family store items—raised $10,000 for the Adult Rehabilitation Center’s (ARC) Pinehurst Program for Women.
“There aren’t many opportunities where you can use your creative juices to make a difference in somebody’s life,” said Angela Fonda, a Transformed Treasures artist. “I’m not only transforming an item, I’m helping The Salvation Army transform lives at Pinehurst.”
In total, 225 guests bid on 153 items, including iron work, handmade jewelry, refurbished chairs and tables, mirrors, bowls and paintings.
“It’s amazing what these artists have created from unwanted items!” said attendee Maureen Naylor, who recognized that the focus of the event was not the items up for bid, but the 24 women currently residing at Pinehurst.
“This was a great opportunity for us to educate the community about what the Pinehurst Program for Women does to help those in need,” said Major Katherine Hodder-Reed, associate Bay Area coordinator for the Army’s ARCs in San Francisco and Lytton Springs. “They may come to The Salvation Army worn down, or even broken, but through spiritual guidance, counseling and hard work they are transformed into the true treasure that God intended.”
Dozens of people signed up to learn more about the Pinehurst Auxiliary. “We are excited by the turnout for Transformed Treasures,” said Fran Bruni, president of the auxiliary. “Our goal is to keep Pinehurst filled with ladies that are looking to make a difference in their lives.”
