Masquerade Bunco Bash

The Burrage Mansion held an evening of mystique and charity on Saturday, Oct. 19. Employment & Community Options hosted the 4th Annual Masquerade Bunco Bash, a fundraiser open to the public, with all proceeds benefiting adults with intellectual disabilities. Friends, families, and clients of Community Options came to the Burrage Mansion dressed in cocktail attire, faces adorned with masks. The group event was a game of Bunco with a cash prize of $150. The silent auction had various items up for bids. Employment & Community Options CEO Nancy Batterman explained more about the auction items. “There are Chargers tickets, the US Grant Hotel for a mini-vacation, and the premier auction item is to have 60 of your closest friends enjoy an event here at the Mansion.” Employment & Community Options is a non-profit organization assisting adults with intellectual disabilities with finding housing and jobs to be able to live as independently as possible. Due to cuts in state funding, Community Options has turned to fundraising to provide their services. Batterman shared that the public has the opportunity to help. “Help us find more jobs, help us find people apartments and to live successfully …” she said. “It helps us continue our mission in the San Bernardino area.” Employment & Community Options has been serving individuals living with developmental disabilities for 27 years. The organization works with various area businesses and organizations, providing opportunities to those living with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, dual diagnoses, hearing impairments, learning disabilities, mental retardation and severe behavioral disorders, helping them lead independent lives while also recognizing that some support may be needed. Those in the program learn daily life skills and how to work with those not living with developmental disabilities. The program also provides them with opportunities for community giveback.