Bee Magno, Luz Mitchell, and Dotty Pringle outside Heavenly Cakes Bakery in Oxnard, where their grassroots fundraising efforts began.
In 2018, a small but determined group of women met for coffee in front of Heavenly Cakes Bakery in Oxnard Shores. What began as a casual gathering quickly transformed into a powerful community movement. Nancy Klein and Dotty Pringle, who first connected at the Shores ArtWalk, sparked an initiative that would soon touch the lives of countless businesses and individuals across Oxnard. Natascha Saavedra, Yvonne LaMendola, and Bee Magno soon joined the effort, helping the group gain momentum.
Their first project was a grassroots fundraiser to support the strip mall where Heavenly Cakes Bakery is located. Inspired by their success, the group expanded their efforts to include fundraisers for Fisherman’s Wharf businesses and later the Elite Theatre. As their mission grew, so did their team.
Yvonne LaMendola, a graphic artist, brought in her husband, RJ LaMendola, a world-renowned photographer, whose contributions added strength to the cause. In recognition of their achievements, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when small businesses needed support the most, the County of Ventura honored the group with an award for their Fisherman’s Wharf Fundraiser under the Channel Islands Gulls.
Over the years, they have raised funds for a diverse range of causes, including Friends of Fieldworkers, the Lahaina Fires, local animal welfare organizations like CARL and SPARC, the Hueneme Veterinary Center, Toys for Tots, and national health groups like City of Hope. Their efforts have also supported cultural events such as the RedBird Powwow, local services like VC Caregivers, and unique initiatives like the Occu-puppy Project, along with supporting bomb-sniffing dogs and local spay/neuter programs.
In addition to their work with larger organizations, the group remains committed to helping local artists in need, ensuring that Oxnard’s creative community continues to flourish.
What started as a simple fundraiser outside a bakery has grown into a movement that uplifts local businesses, artists, and causes. These women and their dedicated supporters have proven how much a small group with passion and heart can achieve, making a lasting impact on their Ventura County community.
“We came together to help when it was needed the most, and we haven’t stopped since.” Special thanks go to Luz Mitchell for consistently helping with set up and break down at fundraisers, and to Susan Bollinger for her support with graphics and advertising.
Their next event is a Caregivers.org Fundraiser – Spooky Boutique on Sun., Oct 27, 9 – 3 pm. At Hollywood Beach, 112 Los Altos St. Join artists and vendors for a SPOOKtacular arts and crafts show. Pet costume contest, facepainting, photo booth, raffle prizes.
