Desert Arc, a nonprofit organization that provides services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will be hosting the Desert Arc Italian Festival and Car Show on Nov. 18 to celebrate its 65th anniversary. The event aims to raise $30,000 to support the organization's impactful programs that are not funded by the State of California.
According to Richard Balocco, president and CEO of Desert Arc, the community's participation in the fundraiser will make a significant difference in the lives of the people they serve. Balocco stated, "Our goal is to raise $30,000 in support of our impactful programs that are not funded by the State of California."
The festival will feature various activities, including a car show provided by The Palm Springs Corvette Club, The Scorpions Car Club, and The Palm Springs Cruise Association. Students from Cathedral City High School, La Quinta High School, Palm Desert High School, and Xavier College Preparatory High School will also be performing. Admission and parking for the event are free.
Guests will have the opportunity to purchase food at the festival, with options such as an Italian lunch plate for $10, a BBQ lunch plate for $10, a pizza slice for $5, and dessert for $5. Additionally, snacks like snow cones, kettle corn, soft drinks, and water will be available.
The event is being underwritten by Mario Del Guidice, owner of Mario's Italian Cafés, and all proceeds will be donated to Desert Arc. The festival will take place at Southwest Church located at 44-175 Washington St., Indian Wells, California.
Desert Arc and Mario's Italian Cafés have had a longstanding relationship for over 40 years, with Del Guidice expressing his commitment to being a loyal friend to Desert Arc. He emphasized that his cafés are always ready and willing to help out the organization.
Desert Arc has been providing comprehensive services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Coachella Valley, the Morongo Basin, and outlying desert communities for several decades. Their programs aim to help individuals with disabilities secure employment and reach their highest potential to live, work, and socialize in the community.
The Desert Arc Italian Festival and Car Show presents an opportunity for the community to come together and support a worthy cause while enjoying a day filled with entertainment, delicious food, and classic cars.