Twenty-one colorful Christmas trees, each with a different theme, were one of the many highlights of MERCI’s 22nd Annual Trees of Enchantment held on December 4 at Luminaries Restaurant in Monterey Park.

Alysha Del Valle from ABC7 was the emcee. She welcomed 300 guests to this very special event to raise funds for MERCI, an organization that provides services to people with severe to profound development disabilities the right to an education in life skills, the opportunity to maximize their independence and to advocate for their choices.

Talented dancers from BELI Folklorico provided the entertainment.  They danced to a Latin beat as guests tapped their feet and clapped their hands in time to the music.

Congressmember Judy Chu presented a proclamation to Executive Director Marta Escanuelas during the event.  Ms. Chu said she enjoyed the dancers. People with disabilities can enjoy life. She has worked with MERCI for over 20 years. MERCI looks ahead to expanding services for the disabled. In Washington DC she is working on funding for MERCI.  She is working to improve life for all especially the disabled and veterans. Congress just passed a bill for extra tax credits for disabled veterans. There is so much left to do to protect Medicare.

Assemblymember Mike Eng presented a proclamation to Executive Director Marta Escanuelas during the event. Mr. Eng said MERCI begins with Me and ends with I. He is working for funding for the disabled and getting them more services. MERCI is expanding with the new John and Mary Duce Place that will serve as a residential home for several clients like Ernie’s Place. He said the MERCI means thank you. We are there.

Santa stopped to visit with his friends and enjoy a delicious brunch. He was glad for a chance to get out of his toyshop for a few hours.

Alysha Del Valle reminded everyone to continue to purchase raffle tickets on each tree to support MERCI.

Executive Director Marta Escanuelas, Elizabeth Diaz, Treasurer Michael Chu, Christina M. Cisneros and Secretary Linda Wilson joined Board President Reverend Sheldon Hess. Vice President Bob Bruesch was not able to attend the event. Reverend Hess thanked the Boardmembers for their service. The old building will be torn down in a few weeks to make way for the construction of the new buildings. Donations are welcome from the residents. Several people had checks made payable to MERCI during the brunch. Marta Escanuelas’ family pledge is to make donations in memory of her father. Her mother made a $1,000 donation during the event.

Reverend Hess said he was happy to see all of you here. He thanked everyone for their generosity.

Twenty-one happy guests had their lucky ticket drawn for the Christmas trees of their choice.

MERCI’s pledge is “Open the door to understanding”.  For more information on MERCI’s services or to make donations please contact them at www.merci.org or call 626-289-8817. They are a 501 (c) non-profit organization, federal tax ID #95-2219917.