Neighbors

Fundraiser for Nepal project

“Come Together for Nepal,” a night of live music, dance and exotic foods to support Rosalind Russell’s work in rural Nepal, will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, at Bridge Hall adjacent to the Neighborhood Congregational Church, 340 St. Ann’s Drive.

Since 2003, Russell, a Laguna Beach resident known as the “Goat Lady,” has worked to improve the lives of women and children in the Kavre district of northern Nepal.

Her effort, called Women Helping Women & Children … therefore the world, part of Russell’s nonprofit organization, R Star Foundation, began with a gift of 200 goats to 25 Nepali women.

Over the years, more than 11,000 goats have been born and given to other villagers, creating harmony in the region and giving women an opportunity to earn money, according to Russell.

In addition, Russell has spearheaded schools, water wells and medical and dental services in the region. Two hundred children will soon be attending a school built with funds from Russell’s nonprofit, and ground-breaking of a second school is scheduled for this month.

Women have also been encouraged to learn to read — in a country where 49% of the women are illiterate — and to engage in cottage industries.

Performing will be Dan Reckard and Friends; and the dance band, Soulfood, with Robert Cassard, Bara Waters, Paul Manfrini and Steve Reid. Playing piano will be Pam Wicks along with Paul McIntyre on the fiddle. The evening will begin with chanting by The Enchanters, along with belly dancing by JJ and the Habibis, plus a performance by poet Tyrell Anansi.

Tickets are $15. Indian food will be available for purchase, along with a silent auction. Cash or checks will be accepted. All donations will go entirely to R Star Foundation. For more information, visit www.RStarMinistries.org.