The Mariachi Divas, took the Student Center stage, in effort to fundraise for the Su Casa organization, on March 11.

As part of  Women’s History Month “Writing Women in History” theme, the all female, Grammy nominated mariachi musicians were invited to performed.

A $2,000 donation was collected and present by Cerritos College to the organization.

All proceeds raised in the event were designated to Su Casa, a non profit agency in Southeast Los Angeles County that provides assistance and advocacy to victims and survivors of domestic violence.

The exact location was not disclosed, due to the confidentiality in location that protects the families that reside in the shelter.

Tickets to the event were sold for $8 as a form, of donation, which included a Mexican dinner catered by Tacos & Company and a performance by the Mariachi Divas.

Francisco Hernandez, owner of Tacos & Co. said, “We are delighted to have been invited to be a part of this event and help fundraise for our community.”

The fundraiser was organized by Dianne Keenan, economics instructor at Cerritos College, who spoke of helping those who are suffering of domestic violence.

The event was put together with the collaboration of the Women’s Studies faculty and the Economics club members.

David Chacon-Acosta, president of the Economics club, said, “With the help of the members of the Econ-club, we were involved in the process of helping out with the fundraiser for Su Casa.”

“My club members gladly stepped up and lent a hand by volunteering to sell tickets,” he said.

“Every nine seconds someone becomes a victim of physical abuse” was the opening statement made by Keenan.

Vicki Doolittle, executive director at Su Casa, said, “It came as a surprise that this event was put together for us by Cerritos College. I’m amazed and blown away by the generosity and the support of the community, especially with these economic times.”

“With the declining economy, our organization has seen a shortage in funds, due to the budget cuts made in the state. The funds given to us will be of great use for us in keeping up with maintenance of our facilities,” added Doolittle, “Cerritos College has been great to us.”

Jamie Hamilton, Board President of Su Casa, said, “We are so appreciative of the support, the Su Casa organization is celebrating its 30 year anniversary. This is a great gift.”

“It is motivating to see what has been done, we are trying to send out a message that the effects of domestic violence are immense, not only does it affect women but children and the families as well,” added Hamilton.

The evening was enjoyed by families, students, professors, and community members who enjoyed the traditional Mexican mariachi songs of the Mariachi Divas.

Cindy Shea, founder of the Mariachi Divas, and trumpet player for the group stated, “It is my duty as an artist to give back and help others, in this case through music.”

“We were invited by Dianne Keenan in celebration of Women’s History Month, who better to call,” Shea added.

Jennifer Williamson, program facilitator at the Wood Workshop Department, said, “I had a great time, the event was fun, it was a generous effort to raise funds for the women of Su Casa, and what better way to celebrate Women’s History month.”

Nicole Perez, English major, said, “The fundraiser was so much fun, but not only that we all came together for a great cause.”

For more information on the Su Casa organization please visit the website www.sucasadv.org and the 24-Hour Hotline (562) 402-4888