Helen Chaix, Adrienne Alexander, Nancy Tarnowski, Linda Cordano, Louise Todoroff, Sophie Azouaou

Raphael House board member and philanthropist, Sophie Azouaou, of Sophisticate Interiors recently hosted a Community Luncheon in honor of Gurbakash “G” Chahal to thank him for his contributions to Raphael House and homeless families in the City, some of which was seen on Fox’s reality television show “The Secret Millionaire”.

In appreciation of his generosity, G was presented by Sophie with a piece of artwork made by the children of Raphael House.

Adrienne Alexander of Pioneer Elementary School talks about the teachers’ support of Raphael House.

In addition to celebrating the partnership between Raphael House and G, several other energetic supporters were recognized, including a group of teachers from Pioneer Elementary School in Union City (Helen Chaix, Adrienne Alexander, Nancy Tarnowski, Linda Cordano, Louise Todoroff) who donate the materials and time to make cozy blankets for all the children who live at Raphael House. They use their lunch break to make them.

Beth Schnitzer VP of the famed Pier 39, donated VIP passes to all the families of Raphael House, so they can enjoy a day of games and excitement.

Patty Herrera, Sophie Azouaou, Kristy Savicke, Ludmila Eggleton

“It was an exciting event filled with generous and caring individuals committed to the work of Raphael House, and many hearts were touched,” Sophie tells us.

As the event drew to a close, Sophie announced the creation of her new NBC show “Touching Hearts” to premiere Sunday, September 10th, 2009, during the prime time post NFL kick-off game.  Sophie is developing the community-oriented show, which is to highlight philanthropy and the non-profit community, with Kristy Savicke and Executive Producer Jack Uhalde.

People with engaging philanthropic stories to share, or businesses that would like to be part of the sponsorship of the show, should contact Kristy Savicke at ksavicke@aol.com

• Further Information: Raphael House [raphaelhouse.org]
• Further Information: Touching Hearts [email Kristy Savicke at ksavicke@aol.com]
• Photos: Bill Wilson [billwilsonphotos.com]