Sun City West clubs plan 'All Hands on Deck' charity event Feb. 24 to aid Southern California fire relief

Club volunteers in Sun City West announced a combined charity effort called “All Hands on Deck” to raise funds for Southern California wildfire relief. The event is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 24, at Palm Ridge, organizers said.

Joel Pyskowski, who organized the event with support from Recreation Manager Casey Huda and the general manager, described the schedule: a mini car show in the parking lot about 4:30–6 p.m., followed by a community dance from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Music will be provided by the Still Above Ground Band. The event is first-come, first-served with a capacity of 432; attendees must present their rec card to enter. Admission is free, attendees may bring their own beverages and snacks, and organizers suggested a minimum $20 donation per person.

Organizers said AFMA (the firefighters’ charity) will operate a food truck, and there will be a drive-up donation area in the parking lot so residents can contribute without attending the dance. Joel Pyskowski said 100% of donations will be split between the Red Cross and Samaritan’s Purse (Franklin Graham’s charity). He also said an anonymous donor has offered to match community donations up to $10,000.

Pyskowski told the committee he had secured 35 volunteers from participating clubs to help with setup and teardown and that the clubs and staff have been publicizing the event through e-news, posters at rec centers and the association website. Recreation Manager Casey Huda said the event is listed on the association’s e-news and will also be promoted on the community radio station KSCW.

There was no formal board action on the event at the meeting; organizers asked committee members and club liaisons to encourage club participation and publicize the event to residents and guests.