"Angel of Tahoe" Lisa Maloff celebrates Christmas with local youth

Christmas was made very special for 100 South Lake Tahoe children on Saturday, December 16, 2017 when philanthropist Lisa Maloff joined Tahoe Youth and Family Services (TYFS) in ringing in the holidays with a special celebration that won’t soon be forgotten.

Earlier this month, Mrs. Maloff made a generous donation of $75,000 to the agency that serves the youth and families South Lake Tahoe, Douglas County and Alpine County. Mrs. Maloff asked TYFS to hold a very special Christmas party so she could spread some holiday cheer and create magical memories for our local children.

In less than two weeks, volunteers pulled together a Christmas party at the beautifully decorated Student Services Center at Lake Tahoe Community College that included face painting, games, a cookie decorating station, games, kid-friendly food and a visit from a very jolly Mrs. Santa Claus – Lisa Maloff herself. Dressed in a jaunty pink Santa hat and matching neon leggings, Mrs. Maloff greeted every single invited child with a big hug and a wrapped gift.

Children served by TYFS, Live Violence Free, the Boys and Girls Club of Lake Tahoe, the Family Resource Center and Sierra Child and Family Services attended the event.

“Mrs. Maloff is definitely The Angel of Tahoe. It’s been an honor getting to know her and we are so touched by her unbelievably generous donation. She’s truly a gift to the youth in South Lake Tahoe,” said TYFS Executive Director Virginia Berry. “We would like to thank Lake Tahoe Community College, Barton Foundation, and Jeanette Shippee and the Culinary Arts program at the El Dorado County Jail for partnering with Tahoe Youth & Family Services to make this day so special for our local kids. We’d also like to thank the virtual army of volunteers and elves who shopped, wrapped presents, decorated and helped serve at the party, as well as Gina Stowell for her amazing face painting of the young guests.”

Mrs. Maloff made the $75,000 donation to the non-profit during their recent “Night of Magic” fundraising event. The night truly became magical when it was announced that she had donated such a generous amount. Her donation will be used to expand and improve services to at-risk youth and families in South Lake Tahoe, Gardnerville and Alpine County. TYFS board president Pam Wheeler said, “Angels do walk among us. Mrs. Maloff is proof of that.”