Catholic Charities Providing help. Creating hope.

"Boots" inspires party-goers to kick up heels
and support Catholic Charities

A lively spirit was evident among the patrons of the sixth annual Boots and Bandannas Dinner Dance this year. The event, which benefits Catholic Charities of DeSoto County, hosted nearly 175 supporters to a night of good food and fun. 

Agency directors Andrea Herigodt and Sister Ann DeNicolo welcomed the crowd and acknowledged their generosity to the Arcadia program throughout the year.

Sharing the spotlight was Guest of Honor Bishop Frank J. Dewane. He praised the dedication of the agency staff, and recognized the co-chairs of the event, Rose Sherrard, Gene Dolecki, and Bob Gannon.

The western-style party featured a variety of silent auction items, including a selection of gift baskets, rounds of golf at local country clubs and several pieces of collectibles. The bids began quickly rising as friends and party-goers attempted out bid each other on their favorite items.

The Mission Valley Country Club in Venice was the site for the event where guests dressed in their finest denim. The relaxed clothing added to the casual atmosphere where high-stepping and the occasional line dance took over the dance floor.

“Boots and Bandannas remains our major fundraising event,” said 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."

According to Herigodt, about 50 families a week are coming to Catholic Charities in Arcadia seeking help. “That number is twice our normal level,” she said. 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: Boots and Bandannas Chairperson Rose Sherrard (center), is flanked by Co-Chairs Bob Gannon (left) and Gene Dolecki.

Photo #2: Maria Arroyo (left) and Marisol Dee kick up their booted heels on the dance floor.