The Grand Romance Riverboat left dock No. 4, at the Rainbow Harbor in Long Beach, on the evening of Nov. 2, for a two hours full of drinks, food, dancing, prizes and most importantly, charity.
With tickets priced at $35 per person and $65 per couple, “Cruise for the Cause” was successful in raising more than $4,000 for the P.A.D.R.E. (Pediatric Adolescent Diabetes Research Education) Foundation, as well as awareness of diabetes.
The turn-out for the event, which lasted from 8:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. (boat ride at 10:00 pm to midnight), was strong considering the restriction on age to 18 years and up. The unique charity event was organized by “Girls for Causes,” a group of determined college students involved in a communication class at Cal State Long Beach.
The entertainment aboard the ship consisted of a sizzling display of professional salsa dancing, a full service bar, a large dance floor, a D.J. and dining arrangements. The night also included a large raffle giveaway of donated prizes. At least 10 baskets ranging in value from $50 to $250 were given away to lucky raffle ticket holders. These baskets consisted of various items, including free Jamba Juice drinks, $50 gas cards, restaurant gift cards and even a one month free gym membership for a couple. All proceeds from the raffle and ticket sales went to aid in the fight against Type 1 diabetes through the PADRE Foundation.
Cruise for the Cause offered enjoyable entertainment with activities ranging from dancing to prize giveaways.
Perhaps the most enjoyable part of the night came from knowing that one’s participation translated to helping others in need. With the assistance of the PADRE Foundation and groups of caring individuals like Girls with Causes, diabetes research will continue to make strides forward in helping people live with the disease while seeking an eventual cure.
The PADRE Foundation, which was created by a father who was searching for answers and resources about diabetes concerning his diagnosed 5-year-old daughter, has been has been actively involved in raising money for the fight against Type 1 diabetes for over 20 years.
The foundation organizes events for children ranging from 2 to 18 years old. These events are held on a monthly basis and past locations have included Disneyland, Wild Rivers and The Discovery Science Center.
If you would like to know more about the foundation or to make an online donation you can check out their Web site at padrefoudation.org. The Web site also has information about the disease in order to help families cope with the challenges caused by Type 1 diabetes.
