For more than 60 years, the Thalians have raised over $35 million dollars for mental health charities. This was the first charitable organization I joined when we moved to Beverly Hills over 30 years ago. I might add (as I did in my tome “The Social Climber’s Handbook”) that becoming involved in charities is the best way to establish yourself in a new community. Since 2011, the Thalians have focused on the well-being of American heroes of Operation Mend, and have made a pledge to raise $1 million to support mental health programs at UCLA.
Last week we were pleased to attend their annual holiday soiree at the elegant Bel Air Country Club, featuring a performance by Frank Stallone and Freda Payne. We were greeted by President Kira Reed Lorsch, Emmy nominated actress, who supports numerous charities. She is also author of the best selling book “SCORE” – How to win the Girl of your dreams.
Among the honored guests were Chairman of the Board, Ruta Lee, who formulated the club with Debbie Reynolds, Oscar-nominated composer, Carol Connors, Jeraldine Saunders (“Love Boat”) and my friend, Madeline Gussman, who donated $100.000 to the cause.
A special evening indeed – filled with Love, Sharing and Hope for the New Year Ahead.
