LOMA LINDA — Two Coachella Valley residents recently banded together and used their birthday celebrations to raise money for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH).

Andrea Rosenblatt and Dawn Rashid, both of Palm Desert, and board members of the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Desert Guild, collectively raised more than $3,600. They presented the money to the hospital on Thursday, Sept. 20.

Jill Payne, assistant vice president of philanthropy, acknowledged the generosity of the ladies’ donations and welcomed them into the LLUCH Birthday Club.

“Donating your birthday to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital brings valuable dollars to important work,” Payne said. “We hope it has made your birthday feel even more special.”

Both Rashid and Rosenblatt have volunteered with the Desert Guild for several years and have a passion for serving their community and LLUCH. The Desert Guild is committed to supporting the children hospitalized at LLUCH by developing programs and projects that address the critical needs of these children and their families.

The LLUCH Birthday Club was established to honor and celebrate those extraordinary individuals who want to give back to children in need. Through personal and social networking, Rashid was able to raise more than $1,500 and Rosenblatt raised more than $1,100. Money raised through the Birthday Club will benefit new Children’s Hospital tower, currently under construction.

LLUCH patient Codi Pelton, 13, of Desert Hot Springs, was all smiles as she accepted the checks on behalf of the hospital.

To learn how you van be a part of the club, click here.

As a member of the Birthday Club, you will  ask friends and family to make a donation in honor of your birthday. By doing so, you help the hospital create healthy tomorrows for kids in the community. Simply decide how you want to make a donation, and fill out the application once your celebration is complete.

 

Photo caption: Andrea Rosenblatt (left) and Dawn Rashid presented their donation to LLUCH alongside Luke the Lion and LLUCH patient, Codi Pelton, 13, of Desert Hot Springs on Thursday, September 20.