The theme for this year is "From the Hills of Tuscany to the Runways of Milan." All the fun is scheduled to start at 11 a.m. at the DoubleTree Hotel, 555 W. Foothill Blvd., Claremont.
Each year, club members choose community organizations or services to help. The profits from this year's luncheon and show will be given to the Upland Police Foundation, the Upland Public Library children's section and to San Antonio Community Hospital's neonatal unit. Ticket donations are $40 per person.
Fashions will be provided by Coldwater Creek. Vocalist Christina Linton from the Claremont Community School of Music will perform.
The Uplanders Club is a nonprofit organization that tries to build friendship through social activities and service. It originally began years ago as a group that welcomed residents new to the city of Upland. The club has become so popular that it welcomes members from throughout the Inland Valley, although its mission continues to be to promote camaraderie through service to others.
Roxanne Basica is the chairwoman of the event. This is her third year in the organization and she said she's proud to be able to continue its 40-year tradition of hosting the show.
"The group has always done a fashion show as its big fundraiser of the year and every single cent goes right back into the community. That's
what I like so much about this. If you come to the luncheon and show, know that you are truly helping," Basica said.Helping the community is something members take very seriously. Each year, the board sends out queries to community groups and nonprofits. The board then interviews group representatives, asking them how they would use a cash donation if they are chosen. This year, the board listened to proposals from seven very worthwhile community groups. Selecting three to support was difficult, but Basica said the board made the right choices.
"All the groups we interviewed were great, but personally I'm thrilled with the ones that were selected and I think the community is, too. We have asked businesses and individuals for donations for the silent auction and door prizes and the community has been overwhelmingly supportive. I think that's because when we've told them what we are supporting, they want to support those charities, too," she said.
Two especially generous donations have come from Giant RV, which gave the group a diamond heart pendant and a pearl and diamond ring, and Citizens Bank Arena, which is providing eight club seats for the Ontario Reign hockey team.
The Upland Public Library will be buying books for its children's section. The Upland Police Foundation will use its portion to support the programs it backs. To date, the Uplanders Club is just a bit shy of donating close to $10,000 during the years to the foundation. And San Antonio Community Hospital will buy respirators to help some of the community's smallest residents breathe easier.
"Everything is falling into place. The response from the community so far has been wonderful and we hope everyone comes to the show," she said.
Board of directors members are Rachael Fuerte, president; Martha Scott, first vice president programs; Tammy Warner, second vice president membership; Elaine Rohr, third vice president activities; Mary Lou Horn, secretary; Lis Johnson, treasurer; and Sharon Rachielles, parliamentarian.
Reservations are needed by Friday. For information, call (909) 982-5570.