D'Vine Path hosts Sip N' Stroll Soiree

FALLBROOK - D'Vine Path hosted the 3rd annual Sip N' Stroll Soiree Sept. 18. This event included grape stomping, wine making tutorials, local beer and wine, restaurant tastings, as well as student performances and silent auctions.

Attendees arrived at the Sip N' Stroll Soiree and were greeted by excited students, welcoming staff and board members. Last year, the soiree was condensed greatly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a 10 person event with a private chef, so many people were unable to attend and support D'Vine Path in person. However, this year D'Vine Path welcomed more than 150 attendees.

According to Executive Director Lenila Lingad-Batali, in-person events such as the annual soiree are important in helping the students grow.

"These real life events are so empowering for our students," said Lingad-Batali. "They are involved in every aspect of planning, creating, and executing the event which gives them a sense of accomplishment and pride. And they're no longer afraid of a crowd."

The 2021 Sip N' Stroll Soiree consisted of multiple dining experiences from local restaurants including Z Cafe, Trupianos, Organic Suite, and Firehouse Que and Brew. Beer and wine were also served during the event. Desserts were donated by pastry chef Jennie Parker, and Dianna Branche also donated her hospitality skills when assisting the students in creating the appetizers for the event.

Attendees watched student presentations on the D'Vine Path Viticulture program as well as the Hospitality program, sponsored by the Fallbrook Legacy Endowment. Attendees also learned about the D'Vine Path Healthy Lifestyle program, sponsored by the Fallbrook Health District. D'Vine Path students practiced each of their presentations tirelessly and on the night of the soiree, they enthusiastically informed the attendees about the many different aspects of D'Vine Path.

After the presentations and dining experiences, attendees enjoyed the singing and dancing performances done by the students as well as Dr. Anna Miller and Dr. Brandon Miller. The night also included a silent auction, raffles, and shopping at the D'Vine Path Merchandise stand.

Every year, the annual D'Vine Path Soiree is hosted in order to raise funds and help D'Vine Path continue to grow and help adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. This year, Lingad-Batali announced that the new goal for D'Vine Path is to be able to fund a move to a more permanent location for D'Vine Path, and expand the program to include more students and activities. This year, all funds donated at the Sip N' Stroll Soiree will all go toward the future expansion of D'Vine Path.

According to Lenila , "The 2021 Sip N' Stroll Soiree was a success, and students were able to continue practicing and developing their skills in an in-person setting. All students have greatly benefited from this opportunity, their public speaking skills have improved, as well as their customer service and social skills." She said events such as the Sip N' Stroll Soiree are a great way for members of the community to come together and learn more about D'Vine Path and its mission.

For more information about D'Vine Path, visit https://www.dvinepath.org/.

Submitted by D'Vine Path.