Boots and Bandannas

Lively event supports DeSoto County programs

Venice--A lively spirit was evident among the patrons of the 7th Annual Boots and Bandannas Dinner Dance, where a Western-style theme brought out cowboy hats and boots, jeans and bandannas. The event, held on March 21 at the Mission Valley Country Club, benefited Catholic Charities of DeSoto County and was a night of good food and fun.

Program Director Andrea Herigodt and Director of Prevention and Support Services Sister Ann DeNicolo welcomed the crowd, acknowledged their generosity to the Arcadia program throughout the year and stated that this year's fundraiser was the largest event ever.

Sharing the spotlight was Guest of Honor Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Wearing a white cowboy hat, he praised the dedication of the agency staff, and recognized the co-chairs of the event, Rose Sherrard, Gene Dolecki, and Bob Gannon. He stressed the people of DeSoto County have especially suffered during the current economic crisis and noted there has been a 100 percent increase in demand for services since last year.

“Boots and Bandannas remains our major fundraising event,” said Program Director Herigodt. “And the success of this year’s event is crucial to supporting the needy in Arcadia, as the current economy has made it difficult for people to make ends meet."

People who are looking for work but cannot find it are coming to the agency for food, clothing, and help with their utility bills or rent. “People we haven’t seen in five or six years are again showing up at our doorstep. Unfortunately we are limited in the amount of assistance we can offer,” Herigodt said.

Catholic Charities of DeSoto County assists clients with a variety of services. The Direct Assistance program offers help with emergency food or clothing needs, or financial support with utilities, rent, mortgage payments or prescription medication. Immigration services provide counselors that are certified through the Bureau of Immigration Appeals (BIA) who process Immigration and Naturalization Service applications. The After School Tutoring program supports children who are at risk of failure in school by giving them one-on-one tutoring and mentoring.

Photo #1: Guest of Honor Bishop Frank Dewane congratulates Boots and Bandannas Chairpersons Bob Gannon and Gene Dolecki. Rose Sherrard also chaired the event.
Photo #2: Father Edward Gibbons (left) and Sister Monica Paul Fraser of Incarnation Parish enjoy the Western-style evening.

Photo #3: Line-dancing is a tradition at the annual party.