Las Patronas, a longtime La Jolla philanthropic organization assisting nonprofits, recently donated $20,000 to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Foundation to purchase equipment for first responders.

The SDFRF will use the funding to purchase a new Jon boat, backup motor, and trailer. Jon boats are small, lightweight, relatively inexpensive multi-purpose flat-bottomed boats made of aluminum or fiberglass.

The new six-person Jon boat replaces an aging three-person vessel, aligning with the River Rescue Team’s fleet standards. This replacement within the River Rescue Team’s fleet significantly increases the capacity for rescue operations, while enhancing safety and efficiency.

“We would like to extend our deepest appreciation to Las Patronas for this substantial donation,” said San Diego Fire Chief Colin Stowell. “Jon boats are a critical tool for us to effectively respond to water emergencies such as swift water or flood rescue operations.”

Added Stowell: “In addition to their primary role in water emergencies, these Jon boats also serve as a stable platform for providing medical assistance, flood evacuations, search and recovery efforts, and firefighting support. Their versatility makes them an invaluable asset to our operations.”

“We are grateful to Las Patronas for their support of San Diego’s River Rescue team,” said Wendy Robinson, executive director of SDFRF. “This is a very impactful grant that will enhance the team’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to water rescue situations and safeguard the community during emergencies.”

“Las Patronas is pleased and proud to support the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department,” said Rowena Treitler, vice president of grants and president-elect for Las Patronas. “Being able to help extend their operational capabilities is a way to support the community’s safety and welfare.”

Since 1946, Las Patronas, a committed group of volunteers who fundraise to provide grants for critically needed capital items to nonprofits countywide, has enriched the community through charitable endeavors. Funds granted to nonprofits are generated through the group’s year-long fundraising efforts, highlighted by the presentation of its annual Jewel Ball presented in partnership with the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club.

All funds raised by Las Patronas stay in San Diego County and provide valuable community services in health, education, social services, and cultural arts.

Pointing out Las Patronas just held its 78th annual fundraising Jewel Ball on Aug. 3, Treitler noted: “We’re proud of the work that we do in the community. We focus a lot of our energy on our grant review process to benefit multiple nonprofits.”

Treitler noted, when Las Patronas started 78 years ago, that “there was a single cause for the fundraising.” But she added, “We have grown so much now and raise close to $1 million a year to benefit multiple charities. We also pride ourselves in our vetting process and our diversity. We raise funds for multiple organizations, everything from small grassroots organizations to big nonprofits that are nationally known.”

Las Patronas members serve six- to seven-year terms and hold two to three organizational positions annually, ensuring the organization’s long-term viability. Additionally, all members work with their grants committee making on-site visits to each eligible nonprofit that applies for a grant. Consequently, each organization’s grant request is thoroughly vetted. Afterward, grants committee members present their findings to the organization as a whole, which selects both major and minor grant recipients, and distributes available funding to them.

RIVER RESCUE TEAM

Jon boats are essential for the San Diego Lifeguard River Rescue Team’s operations in the San Diego River. Examples include:

• Accessing islands in Fashion Valley for annual cleanup efforts in collaboration with the Metropolitan Transit System, San Diego Police, and local staff from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
• Transporting law enforcement during active pursuits in river areas.
• Aiding in graffiti removal on bridges over the San Diego River by providing a safer, larger working platform for city personnel.
• Supporting the San Diego River Conservancy in cleaning up reserves impacted by debris and pollution.