The Canyon Alliance Launches Nov. 19 Benefit at Replenish for Foster Youth

By Laurel Busby

News & Information Editor

Since the Jan. 7 Palisades Fire, Replenish owner John Ward has been working to keep his clothing store going.

The Canyon Alliance Board Member Marla Mayer, who regularly shops at the 169 W. Channel Rd. store, suggested that an event might draw some new customers to the charming, but somewhat hidden bungalow with its array of jeans, shirts, dresses, and accessories from labels like Agolde, Citizens of Humanity, and Enza Costa.

“We were talking about how I wanted to collaborate with the community to bring new people to discover the store because we lost so many customers in the fire,” Ward said. “But I also wanted to do it in a community-based way that would benefit a cause.”

Mayer suggested that Ready to Succeed, a highly successful charity that provides college and job support for foster youth, would be a good partner in the effort. A 10 a.m-7 p.m. event was soon scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 19, with 15 percent of Replenish proceeds going to Ready to Succeed, which was founded by Romi Lasally and Patrick McCabe.

“I thought, ‘This is perfect,’ Ward said. “It’s a win-win situation. I’m happy to contribute, and I also hope to meet new people and have them discover the store.”

From 10 a.m.-11:30, people can stop by the Channel Square store and sample coffee and breakfast catered by RustiCoffee. From 4-7 p.m., valet parking will be available as well as sips, charcuterie, and crudités catered by The Canyon Grocer. Canyon stylist Jill Bronstein (see article about her work here) will also be on hand to help each customer find clothes that work well with their body type and sense of style. Fifteen percent of proceeds from the whole day will benefit Ready to Succeed.

Ready to Succeed works to combat long odds for foster youth. Only 4% of foster youth will graduate from a four-year college, and they are more likely to face homelessness and incarceration, according to the organization. However, 90 percent of Ready to Succeed’s scholars graduate from college within 4.5 years, and 92 percent secure jobs within six months of graduation. In addition, 95 percent envision bright futures for themselves.

“When you meet some of their graduates and see what they’re doing and where they’re going, it’s really quite impressive,” said Mayer, who participates on various Ready to Succeed committees. “Ready to Succeed ensures that foster youth can move on to have successful livelihoods.”