Long ago, the Cupertino Lodge merged with another lodge. Prior to that they celebrated October Fest and Halloween separately. Since the merger, Cupertino has celebrated a combined OctoberFest/Halloween as a members-only event.
It was decided that we should set upon a new path, holding a Halloween event as a public fundraiser for a non-profit organization. Jordan Duval, Pam Johnson & Annie Cronin organized the event. With valued help from the rest of the lodge members, together they transformed the lodge into a fantastic spooky, yet kid friendly, Halloween space.
This year the fundraiser is for the non-profit organization Parent Helping Parents (www.php.com); a program that strengthens families raising loved ones with disabilities through education, support, and advocacy.
Food, drinks, and a variety of treats were served to all, attracting about 90 attendees, with approximately 60 of those being young ones ranging from 2 to 16 years old. There were a variety of costumes: superheroes, fairytales beings, characters, dinosaurs and more. Crafts and games kept folks busy, with a costume contest wrapping up the evening.
Winner: Dr. Seuss’s Cat in the Hat with Cat with Thing One through Thing Six!
Many parents thanked us with much appreciation for having such fun event for their families.
We donated $500 to PHP and overall everyone had a great time. We are hoping the tradition of the Halloween Party will be one of our annual fund raising events for organizations in need.
It is a very interesting time that all of us are experiencing. We are proud to be Odd Fellows and looking forward to connect with our local communities by doing more hands on work serving their needs.
— by Annie Cronin
Editor’s note – the album from this party is incredible. Credit Jordan DuVal for the great photos!