Summer 2024 Newsletter
Message from our President
Dear Board of Directors, Members and Valued Volunteers,
As the golden rays of summer begin to warm our days, I am reminded of the incredible dedication and support you all have shown to the British Benevolent Society. Your unwavering commitment has been the cornerstone of our success, and it is with a heart full of gratitude that I extend my warmest wishes to each of you for a delightful summer season.
May this time bring you joy, relaxation and the chance to create cherished memories with your loved ones. Let us also carry the light of our shared mission, continuing to brighten the lives of those we serve and making a positive impact together. There are many ways to help support our mission this summer:
Bid on the Original Sith Trooper Helmet Prop from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. This item will be auctioned off during the event, with proceeds directly supporting the British Benevolent Society of California.
Join us in celebrating National Nonprofit Day on August 17th, 2024.
Explore our brand-new online BBS Store, your one-stop shop for exclusive BBS swag.
Attend one of our monthly Happy Hours!
Wishing you all a wonderful summer filled with sunshine and smiles.
Warm regards,
Alex Sinclair
President
British Benevolent Society of California
Relief Cases
The Relief Committee receives requests for assistance on an ongoing basis. Requests come through the Consulates in Los Angeles and San Francisco or directly through referrals from the British Community. The most recent cases involved a number of repatriation cases and compassionate financial assistance to a family facing loss.
Repatriation of Young Pregnant Woman
The Relief Committee, informed by the British Consulate in San Francisco, intervened to repatriate a young pregnant woman facing imminent overstaying in the US due to flight cancellations. Financially unable to buy a new ticket and struggling with health issues without support or treatment, the committee ensured her return to the UK, with the BBS providing funds to help her settle.
Repatriation of Young Man Recovering from Hit & Run
The Consulate in Los Angeles informed the Relief Committee of a British citizen who sustained severe injuries from a hit-and-run while on holiday in LA. Struck by one car and then run over by another, both of which fled, he required immediate repatriation to the UK for further recovery. Despite having travel insurance, their claim was denied because the coverage was approved while en route to the US. The family plans to pursue full coverage, but the priority was his urgent return. The Relief Committee funded a travel nurse to accompany the family back to the UK. For more details, visit their GoFundMe page.
Repatriation of Sailor attempting Circumnavigation
A Brit attempting a solo circumnavigation from British Columbia to Hawaii had his boat damaged in a storm off northern California and was rescued by the US Coast Guard. With everything he owned likely lost and the cost of salvaging the boat too high, he needed to return to the UK. The Relief Committee approved his repatriation, enabling him to reunite with his family upon arrival.
Repatriation of Veteran
The BBS, in partnership with the San Francisco Consulate, provided critical assistance to a combat veteran and green card holder who had been living in the US since the early 1990s. In 2024, he became a victim of domestic violence, and although he received treatment and filed a police report, his injuries prevented him from working, leading to severe financial distress. By the time he contacted the Consulate, he had been alternating between couch surfing with friends and sleeping rough. Additionally, he learned that his mother was in poor health, adding to the strain on his physical and mental health. Seeking to urgently return to the UK for recovery, family support, and to assist with his mother's care, the BBS facilitated his repatriation and provided the necessary funds for his return.
Repatriation of British Traveler
The British Consulate in Los Angeles informed us about a young traveler who had not adequately planned her trip to the US. She had run out of funds and was staying in a hostel in Los Angeles with only a few paid nights left. The Relief Committee swiftly approved the cost of repatriation, enabling her to avoid homelessness and return safely to her family in the UK.
Compassionate Financial Assistance - Family Recovering from Sudden Loss of Patriarch
The BBS was notified of a family facing immense hardship after losing their patriarch just three months following a cancer diagnosis. Overwhelmed and unprepared for such a sudden loss, the family urgently needed financial assistance to cover basic expenses like rent, food, and gas. In response, the Relief Committee provided sufficient funds to support the family for three months, ensuring their essential needs were met. We extend our heartfelt wishes to them as they navigate this challenging period.
Requests for relief assistance are received on a regular basis. The Relief Committee and Head of Relief, work together to provide the most appropriate, responsible and impactful assistance. If you are considering making a donation to the BBS, know that your donation will directly benefit a Brit who quite literally has no where else to turn and needs compassionate understanding.
We end this most recent update with a thank you from a relief recipient:
“Meanwhile, this has cheered me up a lot. I am deeply ever so deeply grateful to you and the BBS...you are all angels. My heartfelt warmest wishes for all your good health and safety.”
Upcoming BBS Events
Julien's Auctions and Turner Classic Movies (TCM) Announce Special Auction Item to Benefit the BBS
Julien’s Auctions and Turner Classic Movies (TCM) unveiled an imperial collection of over 50 of the most epic artifacts from the blockbuster film franchise coming soon to their highly anticipated "Hollywood Legends: Danger, Disaster and Disco" auction event taking place live Thursday, June 13th, Friday, June 14th and Saturday, June 15th in Los Angeles and online at juliensauctions.com.
The Original Sith Trooper Helmet Prop from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
(pictured above) will be one of the items auctioned off during the event and will directly support the British Benevolent Society of California!
From the screen to your collection, this Sith Trooper helmet is straight from the epic Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (Lucasfilm Ltd., 2019). Many thanks to Lucasfilm for their generous donation.
About the "Hollywood Legends: Danger, Disaster and Disco" Auction Event
Traveling from a galaxy far, far away will be the ultimate collection of iconic costumes, props, behind the scenes production material, models, photographs, memorabilia, and beyond from the pop culture phenomenon that will thrill and delight movie fans and collectors of the intergalactic saga. So dust off your bidding paddle and prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey to claim your piece of cinematic history. Don't miss out on this golden opportunity to bring the glitz and glamour of the silver screen home.
June Happy Hour
Join us in Los Altos for our first No-Host Happy Hour of the summer!
When: Wednesday, June 26th, 2024
Where: State Street Market, 170 State Street, Los Altos, CA, 94022
Time: 5:00-8:00 PM
The BBS will host a raffle, as we always do at the monthly happy hours! So please join us and you never know what you will walk away with!
Please consider a small charitable donation to attend. All donations we receive will help us to provide financial relief to Brits in need. Please RSVP so that the bar can accommodate for staff.
Whisky Wednesday is Back!
Join the Saint Andrew's Society of San Francisco for an evening exploring the legendary Whiskies of Penderyn Distilleries on Wednesday, June 26th, at 7:00 PM via Zoom. Sam Filmus of ImPex Beverages will guide us through tastings of Penderyn's finest whiskies.
Tickets are $70 for home delivery or $50 for pick-up at The Whisky Shop. Secure your spot today and enjoy great company while supporting our community.
For questions, contact Sophia Zimmermann at 1stVP@saintandrewssocietysf.org.
This event is 21+ and non-refundable.
Join Us in Celebrating National Nonprofit Day, August 17th, 2024
As we the BBS observe National Nonprofit Day on August 17th 2024, it’s a time to honor the spirit of giving and the difference it makes in our communities.
The British Benevolent Society has been at the forefront of this noble cause, providing support and relief to those in need.
Giving is not just an act of kindness; it’s a commitment to making the world a better place. It’s about lifting each other up and fostering a sense of unity and compassion. Your support enables us to continue our mission and touch more lives every day.
Check Out the New BBS Store
Your Source for Exclusive Swag!
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new online BBS Store, your one-stop-shop for exclusive BBS swag!
Browse through our collection of high-quality merchandise including: T-Shirts, Trucker Hats, Insulated Travel Mugs, Tote Bags, Pint Glasses and more!
Whether you’re looking to show off your BBS pride or find the perfect gift for a fellow member, our store has something for everyone.
BABCSF Names BBS as Charity Partner at Annual Christmas Luncheon
We are so grateful to once again be named as the British American Business Council Northern California (BABCSF) charity partner at the annual Christmas Luncheon, taking place on Friday, December 13th, 2024 at the Fairmont San Francisco atop Nob Hill.
We thank the BABCSF Board of Directors for this acknowledgment and demonstration of support.
More information on the BABC Northern California.
We look forward to celebrating with you again at the 2024 BBS Christmas Dinner on December 11th, 2024 (SAVE THE DATE!).
Previous BBS Events
Senay Ryan, Memberships, Supporting the BABC at their AGM
BBS Annual General Meeting (AGM)
It's always a pleasure to express gratitude to those who have contributed to a successful event, so we'd like to take a moment to thank all those who attended the BBS Annual General Meeting on Thursday, April 25th at Werqwise SF.
We're grateful for your presence and participation, as we came together to shape the future of The British Benevolent Society of California, Inc and preserve its 170 year tradition in helping those when they most need it.
We'd also like to extend our appreciation to our former board members, Kelly Ducourty, Karen Thomas, Kathleen Kimura MBE, and Arif Damji for their dedication and hard work in serving on the board. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors.
And a warm welcome to our new board members, Andy Jack and Nick Fey. We're excited to have them join the BBS and look forward to working with them. Thank you all once again for your support and commitment to our organization.
South Bay Happy Hours
April Happy Hour South Bay!
Aloha Goodies Raffle Prize
March Happy Hour South Bay! Gin & Tonic Raffle Prize
Welcome New Members!
BBS would like to welcome our newest members:
Corporate Members
David Ryan- Providentia
Peter Warden - Useful Sensors
Individual Members
Rosie Brooks
Karen Fraser
Stephen Legg
Jonathan Mells
Julie Mercer
Donald Munro
Adrian Peryer
Bala Rajappan
Zara Reader
Caroline Solomon
Introducing our NEW GenZ Committee Members:
Rayne Ryan (pictured, on left)
Hannah Lesti (pictured, on right)
Hello, my name is Rayne Ryan. I am a junior at Seton Hall University, studying Fintech and Philosophy. I am also the President of the International Student Association, where I work to build community and to raise awareness about the challenges of living in a new country. My British roots are important to me, and I am excited to join the British Benevolence Society to support fellow Britons in need. In my free time, I enjoy sailing, cooking, yoga, and jazz.
Hello everyone! My name is Hannah Lesti and I am a student from Mountain View, California. I recently graduated summa cum laude from the University of Oregon’s Clark Honors College, and will be attending Georgetown Law in the fall. I am an avid reader, gardener, and harpist, and aim to pursue a career in public interest international law. I am deeply committed to the spirit of community service, and am excited to serve as a junior member of the British Benevolent Society.
Save the Date - 2024 Events
BBS Happy Hours in the North & South Bay
Join us for our monthly No-Host Happy Hours at State Street Market in Los Altos this year:
July 31
August 28
September 25
October 17
Trivia Nights at the Pig & Whistle
Gather with us at the Pig & Whistle for Trivia Nights on the following dates this year:
March 12
April 9
May 14
Save the Date! Annual BBS Christmas Dinner 2024
Wednesday, December 11th, 2024 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm at The University Club of San Francisco.
Join us for a festive evening filled with delicious food, joyful music, and holiday cheer. Don't miss out on this special event!
Tickets will be available soon. Keep an eye on our social media for updates!
