CHOSA loves having opportunities to connect with our donors and friends here in the U.S., and last month we got to do just that! Events in Los Angeles and New York City were held in June to gather with friends of CHOSA old and new, and to raise funds and awareness for the projects and communities we support in Cape Town. Our co-founder Jared Sacks was visiting from Cape Town and spoke at both events, helping us all to feel a little bit more connected to what’s going on across the ocean.

In Los Angeles, board members hosted a summertime brunch and art auction to raise funds for our various projects in Cape Town. Several of the works of art on auction were donated by a local gallery, while others were original pieces hand-crafted by Cape Town artists. A few of the pieces came from our own partner organization, Philani Nutrition Centre, which employs formerly unemployed mothers to create beautiful and unique arts and crafts. We met new friends who were hearing about CHOSA for the first time, and heard from CHOSA alum and new intern Jeanne Kelber on her experience at Emasithandane.

In New York City, friends of CHOSA gathered for “Jol for a Cause,” an exciting night of live music and spoken word emceed by CHOSA alum Cristina Jacobs. Local performers joined with CHOSA alumni speakers and Jared to celebrate and raise awareness of our work in Cape Town. Local New York artists such as The Attic Ends, Threads of Scarlet, Iam Popula, Azure Antoinette, and JOI shared their talents, and friends of CHOSA heard the latest stories about our work and enjoyed authentic South African cuisine at Brooklyn’s Madiba Restaurant. A great time was had by all! Look out for more events heading your way soon, and if you’re interested in hosting one, contact [email protected].