There is no resting on the laurels for Friends of DePelchin, the young professionals group that is enjoying a recent resurgence. Founded in the '90s, this was one of the city's first YP organizations, which today is all about volunteerism and fundraising.
The CultureMap Mixer on the Map gathering at La Fisheria was a bonus for the group that hosts two annual events — a fall fundraiser and a Cinco de Mayo membership party — and provides numerous opportunities to work with the children and families of DePelchin Children's Center. The recent Field Day, which saw a turnout of 130 adoptive families, for example, was part of the on-going volunteer opportunities that keep YPs involved in hands-on activities with Depelchin clients.
"We want to get the young professionals involved and hooked on our mission."
The CultureMap party served a double purpose for the group, as DePelchin's Julia Taliaferro said, "We're still trying to widen our circle, reach more people and tell more people about DePelchin. So many people think of us strictly as an adoption agency . . . We want to get the young professionals involved and hooked on our mission."
Membership fluctuates between 80 and 90 and includes a rich stable of singles and a healthy number of couples.
Among those wading through the sea of margaritas and sampling La Fisheria's yummy tostadas and red snapper croquettes were Eliza Wright, Maria Maxit and James Rinando, Stephanie Hoban, Cole Ramsey, Elliott Taliaferro, Dr. Sermant Jain, Ryann Jarrad, Matt Pierce, Sarah Wasaff, Arienne Brint and Catherine and Ryan York.
