February 12th marks the date for the biggest and best charity event of the season - the annual RISE for Hope Fundraising Event at the American School from 5 to 9 pm to benefit the wonderful children living at Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza (R.I.S.E.)

This year's event is particularly meaningful as we will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of this special shelter for children in need here in Puerto Vallarta. Plenty of delicious food from Vallarta's finest restaurants, beverages to enjoy, terrific entertainment, live and silent auctions, and LOADS of fun will be in store for everyone.

Tickets are now available at $550 pesos at Daiquiri Dick's, Riedesser y Asociados in Plaza Marina, the Refugio, No Way José Restaurant, Lemmus Peninsula Vallarta in the Peninsula Plaza, the American School, or by calling Sudy Coy at (322) 224-4407 or Sylvia Snyder at 223-0285.

A limited number of tickets will be sold for this event to prevent over-crowding so plan to purchase your tickets right away. For information about special reserve tables for this event, please contact Connie Vincent at (322) 221-5972.

The Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza is a non-profit shelter for babies and children under the age of 14. Some of these children are orphans but most come from unbearable situations having been abused, neglected, or simply abandoned. R.I.S.E. is a Mexican non-profit charitable organization, which accepts donations through a number of charitable organizations. More information about tax deductible donations can be found at their website: Refugio-Infantil.org.