When there is a need, the people of Dos Palos will step up and tackle whatever challenges are in front of them.
Stephanie’s House Administrator, Elsa Snyder has seen, first hand, the generosity of the community over the past 21 years. That’s how long she has been the administrator of the non-profit corporation.
On Saturday night, March 21 the fifth annual dinner/dance and casino night fundraiser was held at the Dos Palos DES Hall. It was a full house of people from all over Valley attending to help raise money for needed maintenance on the house located on Valeria Avenue just south of Dos Palos.
Stephanie’s House, previously known as Agnes Whitson Home, was established in 1983. The home was donated and founded by Troy and Mildred Carter for the purpose of forming a community care licensed facility for developmentally disabled adults.
Their dream was to have a home for their daughter, Stephanie — born with Downs Syndrome — so she could live her life in one home, one community and one family. She passed away in 2013 at the age of 57.
The 16 bedroom house, located on five acres, is licensed for 13 adults. The proceeds from previous year’s fundraisers helped replace one of six large air conditioning units, fully remodel four bathrooms with walk-in showers, replace the roof and paint the home.
This year’s proceeds will help remodel the 100-year-old kitchen. Snyder said the kitchen sink, counters, cabinets and all plumbing need a facelift. And a fan is needed over the stove.
Synder is so thankful for the support from last Saturday’s event.
“I am so grateful for all of the generosity shown by the community,” she said. Many people donated handmade desserts which were auctioned off by Merced County Supervisor Scott Silveria. He donates his time and auctioneering skills every year at the event.
In addition to the auction, Snyder said that the Los Banos Knights of Columbus presented a check for $8,172. The Tracy Police Department also donated $1,000.
The steak dinner was provided by the Dos Palos Lions Club and the Vince Warner Band from Fresno had everyone dancing after dinner while enjoying a chocolate covered ice cream bar for dessert.
