The nonprofit service club solicits donated decorated trees to be raffled off at their event, with all proceeds going to fund the many projects and programs that serve its mission of supporting women and girls furthering their education for economic empowerment.

Darlene Woodcock has lent her creativity to local Soroptimists chapter for many years and joined the HVAA this year. As Ornament Project Chair, she proposed the idea of decorating a tree to fellow artists and they were all in to help this worthy cause. On Nov. 13, 20 artists each completed a blank 4-inch ball in the media of their choice.

Artists enjoyed the opportunity to share their talents with those who will be attending the popular Jingle-Mingle. Woodcock joined HVAA because she was looking for an organization that consists of like-minded people from the art world. She herself creates one-of-a-kind “Framed Junk Jewelry.” She said she enjoys communicating with the other artists and seeing their wonderful creations; they inspire her.

The art nonprofit is just one of the 30-plus organizations or businesses that are donating a tree to the annual Soroptimist event that includes a raffle for the trees and other holiday décor as well as a silent auction of all sorts of donated items. Along with the trees, which range in size from 2-4 feet tall, Jingle-Mingle organizers are expecting 10 wreaths and numerous table-top decorations. The silent auction is expected to include wine, gift certificates, personal care items, collectibles and much more.

The two-hour party will provide an evening with red and white wine for sale by the glass and chocolate-dipped strawberries provided by gourmet bakery chef and Soroptimist club member Cynthia Rodriguez of Cynthia’s Sweet Treats among other delights. The group is expecting 180-plus attendees this year.

“I like the very friendly atmosphere with different personalities and community members coming together,” Woodcock said of the annual Jingle-Mingle. “It’s a great way to start the month of December for holiday celebrations.”

Until it is transported to the San Jacinto event, the HVAA decorated tree can be seen from the front window of its gallery at 144 N. Harvard St. in Hemet. For more information, www.HemetValleyArt.com.

This year’s Jingle-Mingle will be on Thursday, Dec. 4 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Golden Era Golf Clubhouse, 19871 Gilman Springs Road, San Jacinto. The cost to attend is $25 per person, which includes five raffle tickets and light refreshments. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.sisjhv.org.

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