Los Altos Beloved Spring Tasting Event Returns May 3!

La Canada-based Los Altos Auxiliary of Sycamores is excited to announce the return of its beloved annual wine tasting event in 2026.

Co-Chaired by Karen Mathison, Linda Yaussi and Cindy Bengtson, “Sip and Savor Paso Robles” will be held Sunday, May 3rd at Oakmont Country Club, featuring curated wines and craft beers from the Paso Robles region! Mocktails will also be available.

“We’re delighted to welcome both longtime supporters and new friends to this relaxed, joyful celebration in support ofour volunteer work with both the foster-care youth at Sycamores’ El Nido residential campus and their Transitional Age Youth programs for young adults,” said Los Altos Auxiliary President Kelly Springer. “This beloved annual fundraiser has been a tradition for more than a decade, and we’re excited to introduce it to new guests this May. Along with delicious food, wine, beer, and mocktails, guests will enjoy a curated boutique silent auction featuring one-of-a-kind experiences we know they’ll love.”

For over sixty-seven years, the Los Altos Auxiliary of Sycamores has been dedicated to providing care, compassion, and hope to youth at the El Nido residential campus in Altadena. Many of the young people served are survivors of trauma and multiple foster care placements. At El Nido, they receive individualized therapeutic services in a calm, spacious setting designed to support healing and personal growth.

While Sycamores’ professional staff delivers comprehensive therapeutic care, the members of Los Altos Auxiliary provide vital support through funding for capital improvements, educational programs, and meaningful social enrichment activities. Through initiatives such as painting parties, magic nights, ice cream socials, cooking activities, holiday celebrations, and birthday cupcake deliveries, Auxiliary members engage directly with the youth, reinforcing a sense of belonging and care.

“It’s remarkable how much impact our kindness and support can have on a young person who lacks a reliable support system,” said member Susie Zadravecz. “Our personal, family-style activities can profoundly influence a child’s outlook and aspirations.”

“In 2025, we expanded our initiatives to support young adults in the Transitional Age Youth (TAY) program,” said Sip and Savor Co-Chair Cindy Bengtson. “These individuals are aging out of foster care and beginning their first independent living experience. They require comprehensive resources to succeed and avoid homelessness.” Los Altos members are stepping up by offering practical life skills support by providing essentials such as groceries, laundry and cleaning supplies, along with homemade desserts and personal touches to instill a sense of community.

Interested individuals can learn more at losaltosauxiliary.org.

Persons interested in more information on Sip and Savor Paso Robles can email losaltosauxiliary@gmail.com. Sponsorships are available to companies and individuals!