Wildlife group hosts benefit

To ensure that the mission of caring for sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife continues, California Wildlife Center will host its sixth annual fundraiser, "The Wild Brunch-La Fiesta de Amigos," from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sun., July 9 at Rancho Chiquita, a private, 40-acre hacienda-style estate high atop the Santa Monica Mountains in Malibu.

About 250 guests, including business and community leaders, civic officials, educators, donors and friends will gather for brunch catered by chef, author and restaurateur Gerri Gilliland; a silent auction; activities for children; live entertainment and the opportunity to witness a wildlife release on the property.

During this event, Gretchen Wyler, former vice president of the Hollywood Office of the Humane Society of the United States and founder of the Genesis Awards, will receive the center's 2006 Free Spirit Award for her nearly four decades of tireless devotion to animal protection.

This year's honorary committee includes State Assemblywoman Fran Pavley, Calabasas Mayor Dennis Washburn and L.A. County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky.

"This event is great for every member of the family and an opportunity for folks to meet our staff and volunteers and to learn more about what we do at the center in a casual, festive setting," said Victoria Harris, interim executive director of California Wildlife Center. "We are still in the middle of wildlife busy/baby season, which goes from May through September, so financial support at this time is vital to ensuring that we have the necessary technology and staff to aid the animals that are brought to our hospital for treatment and rehabilitative care.

"This year, our goal is to raise $100,000, which will enable us to update our aging primary animal care unit and support our education, marine mammal rescue and community outreach programs."

Tickets are $80 per person, $150 couples, and $30 for children ages 12 and under.

To RSVP, or for more information about sponsorships, silent auction donations and how to help support the center, call (818) 222-2658.