WHITTIER – The Río Hondo College Foundation’s signature fundraising gala, “A Taste of Río,” dazzled guests with an impressive array of artisan cuisine, craft beer and wines, exquisite gift baskets and lively entertainment on June 9. This year’s event brought in the highest amount in the history of the fundraiser, and raised $107,603 for scholarships and student support services.

On a cool and breezy spring evening, the Foundation hosted more than 350 Río Hondo College (RHC) patrons, who noshed on freshly prepared culinary delights and curated spirits provided by nearly two dozen local vendors, including La Crosta Pizza, Tepeyac Sports Grill, The Crooked Gaff, JDO Mediterranean, Whittier Brewing Company, Mi Burrito, Clearman’s Steak & Stein, and the College’s own Roadrunner Brewing.

Among the esteemed dignitaries who attended ‘A Taste of Río’ were Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, Whittier Mayor Joe Vinatieri, South El Monte Mayor Gloria Olmos, Pico Rivera City Councilmember Dr. Monica Sanchez, as well as a host of representatives and elected officials from the Río Hondo College Community College District and its K-12 partner districts.

Río Hondo College Superintendent/President Dr. Marilyn Flores presided over her first-ever “A Taste of Río” fundraiser, mingling with guests, and marveling over the extraordinary community support for RHC students.

“What makes ‘A Taste of Río’ such a special event is that all who attended gathered for the primary purpose of ensuring our students have the resources necessary to attend college and graduate,” Dr. Flores said. “This is our primary fundraiser to provide scholarships and support services for students. The enthusiasm shown by those who donated helped to propel us to our biggest year ever. We are extremely thankful for this heartfelt support.”

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, “A Taste of Río” continued its popular tradition of conducting a silent auction, which featured 54 items and raised more than $15,000 for the Foundation as guests vied for the chance to win Dodger tickets, see live performances at the Pantages Theater and Musical Theatre West, or take a weekend getaway to Palm Springs.

“Resources generated from this event will help continue increase graduation rates, close the achievement gaps and provide basic needs, food and housing, to our students,” Board of Trustees Clerk Oscar Valladares said.

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TASTEOFRIO1-4: The Río Hondo College Foundation’s signature fundraising gala, “A Taste of Río,” was a huge success, raising more than $100,000 for student scholarships and support services. The annual event, held June 9, drew a crowd of 350 guests, who were dazzled by an impressive array of artisan cuisine, craft beer and wines, exquisite gift baskets and lively entertainment.