By Ethlie Ann Vare
BRENTWOOD (The Hollywood Times, October 21) – “May Contain Nuts,” WeSPARK’s annual comedy benefit at the Skirball Center, had a wildly successful evening, raising $206,000 for the nonprofit on its 25th anniversary. Founded in 2001 by actors Wendie Jo Sperber and Nancy Allen, this locally based nonprofit offers an array of free services to cancer survivors and their families. Sperber sadly died of her breast cancer in 2005; Allen remains as Executive Director of the group and continues to raise its profile and its revenues.
“It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve our community for the past 25 years,” says Allen (RoboCop, Carrie, Dressed to Kill) modestly.
Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me’s Alonzo Bodden returned as Master of Ceremonies, introducing stand-up sets from comedians Wendy Liebman, Adam Ferrara and Cristela Alonzo. The Heart of WeSPARK Award was presented to longtime supporters Karen Morin, Arthur Toretzky and Claudia DeCea.
WeSPARK provides a wide array of wellness services and emotional support to people affected by a cancer diagnosis, not just the patient but their family and caregivers. Caregivers in particular are encouraged to participate in groups ranging from yoga to grief support because, as Bodden put it, “It’s a very helpless feeling when somebody in your circle gets cancer. Most of us don’t know how to be caretakers. So it’s great to have an organization that says this is what you can do to help, and this is how you help yourself as you’re caring for the other person.”
All of WeSPARK services are 100% free, hence the fundraisers. Caregivers are eligible for services for five years following diagnosis or treatment of a loved one.
Upcoming events include Jason Alexander’s Annual Celebrity Poker Tournament, and a 5K-10K Run/Walk scheduled for February. If you or a family member need support, or you want to support the organization, reach out.
WeSPARK
14724 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks
http://www.wespark.orgwww.wespark.org
