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#  The Leslies' 36th Annual Toy Drive and Fundraiser to Support Transgender/Gender Diverse Youth and Youth Affected by HIV/AIDS

November 20 2024

Written by Margot Anderson.

FUNDRAISER - Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening of generosity and celebration! On Saturday, December 7, 2024, The Leslies’ 36th Annual Toy Drive and Fundraiser will be held at the prestigious Dinah Shore Estate in Palm Springs, promising a night of luxury and purpose.

This year’s event will feature a gourmet, catered meal crafted by celebrity chef Franco De Dominicis, a hosted bar, and an evening filled with music entertainment. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in silent and live auctions, with an array of exciting items available for bidding both in person and online.

![](https://mail.citywatchla.com/images/094b8.jpg)

*Sam & Ashan Leslie - Hosts*

Proceeds from the event will benefit The Laurel Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering transgender and gender-diverse youth and youth affected by HIV/AIDS. Through their free mental health and social support programs, The Laurel Foundation continues to be a ray of hope for vulnerable young people across the country.

This year’s Toy Drive takes on heightened significance as shifts in the political landscape pose new challenges to these communities. The Leslies and their supporters recognize the urgent need to rally around at-risk youth and provide them with the resources and support they need to thrive.

“We are thrilled to bring the community together at such a remarkable venue for a cause that truly matters,” said Margot Anderson Founder and CEO of The Laurel Foundation. “It’s not just about giving back—it’s about showing our youth that they are seen, valued, and supported.”

![](https://mail.citywatchla.com/images/stories/Nov-2024/094b6.jpg)

*Former Dinah Shore Estate - Palm Springs*

This year’s Sponsors include City of Palm Springs, Mattel, The Printing Palace, Bright, Grace Helen Spearman Foundation, El Paseo Jewelers, Henderson Engineers, CityWatchLA, KGAY Gay Desert Guide and more. Please visit [ToyDrive2024.Givesmart.com](https://mail.citywatchla.com/ToyDrive2024.Givesmart.com) to learn more.

**How to Participate:**

- Tickets, sponsorships, and donations can be made online at [ToyDrive2024.Givesmart.com](http://ToyDrive2024.Givesmart.com).
- Auction participation is open to all, whether attending in person or virtually.
- For more information about The Laurel Foundation and their vital work, visit [Laurel-Foundation.org](http://Laurel-Foundation.org).

Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy an elegant evening while making a difference in the lives of young people who need it most. Join us in creating a brighter future—one child at a time.

![](https://mail.citywatchla.com/images/stories/Nov-2024/094b4.jpg)

*Youth Clients at Camp Mulberry*

TOY DRIVE FUNDRAISER

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Location: Dinah Shore Estate, Palm Springs
Time: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM

This year’s Toy Drive will be the most impactful yet!

### [For Tickets and Information](http://ToyDrive2024.Givesmart.com)

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