For the Islander
The Catalina Island Conservancy and nearly 400 guests celebrated the 26th Annual Conservancy Ball, “A Groovy View Since ’72” on Saturday, April 23, in the historic Avalon Casino Ballroom. The event commemorated 50 years of Conservancy stewardship of Catalina Island.
Conservancy supporters donned groovy black-tie attire to show their support and have a smashing good time. Society Beat was back onstage to provide kick off the party that kept the dancefloor busy all night.
Through the support of dedicated individual and corporate sponsors, along with live auction items including a very groovy one-of-a-kind etched and hand-painted Balthazar of Rusack, Santa Catalina Island Vineyards 2018 Pinot Noir, unique Catalina memorabilia and guided Island experiences with Conservancy staff, more than $760,000 was raised for the Conservancy’s programs.
Conservancy President and CEO Tony Budrovich welcomed guests and invited attendees to join him in celebrating not only the unique year, but also half a century of hard work and success.
“We are grateful for the continued support of Catalina Island Conservancy’s important work over the last 50 years, and this year’s Conservancy Ball was no exception. The energy in the room was electric. Getting together again was celebrated and funding for programs was a huge success.” said Conservancy President & CEO Tony Budrovich. “We so appreciate how the community of those who love Catalina continue to connect with the Conservancy and support our key conservation, education and recreation programs. Cheers to 50 years!”
Over the past 26 years, the Conservancy Ball has helped to raise a net of more than $8 million. The annual fund-a-need, this year supporting the Conservation Internship Program, raised more than $54,000. Like many other non-profit organizations, effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have continued to impact Conservancy operations and your support is more vital than ever. The Conservation Internship program in partnership with American Conservation Experience (ACE) offers once in a lifetime opportunity for students to gain hands on experience with conservation work in the fields of wildlife biology, plant ecology and more. It is estimated that over the course of three months, a single plant restoration intern improves 260 acres of habitat and mitigates over 8,000 invasive plant species. There is still time to help us grow our Conservation Internship Program by donating now! Visit www.catalinaconservancy.org/ball to donate today.
“Your generosity has been, and continues to be, crucial in helping the Conservancy further our purpose to preserve Catalina Island’s timeless nature,” added Budrovich.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to our individual sponsors and corporate partners including Presenting Partner Capital Group Private Client Services and Shaun and Katy Tucker, Food and Wine Partner U.S. Bank, Auction Partner Edison International and Lounge Partner Greater Los Angeles Area Council – BSA/Western Los Angeles Council – BSA. We are grateful to our other Partners including Connolly-Pacific Co.; Aon – Commercial Risk Solutions; California SwimRun; CliftonLarsonAllen; Rodriguez, Horii, Choi & Cafferata LLP; Avalon Freight Services; and Catalina Express.
About the Catalina Island Conservancy
Formed in 1972, the Catalina Island Conservancy is one of California’s oldest land trusts. Its mission is to be a responsible steward of its lands through a balance of conservation, education and recreation. Through its ongoing efforts, the Conservancy protects the magnificent natural and cultural heritage of Santa Catalina Island, stewarding approximately 42,000 acres of land and more than 60 miles of rugged shoreline. It provides access to the Island’s wildlands and 50 miles of biking and nearly 165 miles of hiking opportunities within its road and trail system. The Conservancy conducts educational outreach through two nature centers, its Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden and guided experiences in the Island’s rugged interior. Twenty miles from the mainland, the Island is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological sites. It also contains numerous rare and endangered animals and plants. The Island is home to 60 species – and counting – that are found only on Catalina. For additional information, please visit www.catalinaconservancy.org.
