The second annual benefit for the Hillcrest Youth Center takes place this Saturday, Oct. 11, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Rancho Santa Fe home of Pam and Yehudi Gaffen. The Gaffens, along with Anita May Rosentstein, First Republic Bank, The Galinson Family Foundation and Lichter Weil & Associates, are sponsoring the event, which helps to raise awareness and funds for issues facing GLBT and questioning youth.

The event raised over $30,000 last year. All funds gathered are used to support various programs at the Youth Center, which is the only GLBT youth drop-in facility in San Diego.

Pam Gaffen, President of GAFCON, a San Diego-based construction consulting firm, and husband Yehudi organized the event at their home in Rancho Santa Fe last year after being impressed by Councilmember Toni Atkins’ commitment to youth of all orientations.

“I came up with the idea to have a fundraiser for The Center at our house,” said Pam Gaffen. “Then people jumped onto the idea; we formed a committee last year, and got everything donated – from the food to the musicians, to the flowers, to the valet. It was a really successful event. It’s just a really fun-filled evening, where everybody puts their talents together to raise money for the kids. Especially since it’s for the Hillcrest Youth Center. It is a cause I believe we need to take care of because [GLBT youth] are the most at risk, and they need a shelter. I am really committed to that.”

The Youth Center’s programs include education, job, arts, and life skills training, a computer lab, and HIV testing, counseling and prevention for local youth under the age of 24. GED tutoring is available six evenings a week, and drop-in youth groups and professional counseling services are available several times a week. The Youth Center also trains peer educators who provide information and conduct interactive workshops for other youth on issues surrounding sexuality, safe sex and relationships. Program coordinators are developing Outspoken, a magazine produced by youth for youth, to give young GLBTs the opportunity to express themselves through art and artwork. They will also gain experience in design and production of print media.

The Gaffens will be honored with the Friend of The Center Award this year at The Center’s 30th anniversary gala on Oct. 18.

“We are very thankful for the Gaffen’s generosity again this year,” said Dr. Delores Jacobs, executive director of The Center. “Their commitment to LGBT youth in San Diego is outstanding. This unique, signature event is an exceptional opportunity to bring together diverse communities to support these disenfranchised youth.”

All catering, party rentals and entertainment are donated again this year. Featured entertainers are The San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus, Kenny Ard and Janice Edwards of Bourbon Street fame, singer Betsy Effron, David Stein, and Monica Simantob of the salsa dance company Majesty in Motion. Those interested in attending should contact Zac Mikles at The Center at (619) 692-2077.