Circle of Life 100 to Honor Marilyn Stark for History of Service
As founder and first chair of Circle of Life 100, Marilyn Stark has played a major role in developing the service organization into a leading advocate for health education and philanthropy in support of Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas. It all began, though, with a modest appeal to the North County community for, “a few good women.”
Marilyn became involved with Scripps Encinitas soon after moving to Carlsbad in 1998. Drawing on her rich history of fundraising and community leadership in Los Angeles, she envisioned a group of women leaders who would collectively dedicate their time and talent to support the nonprofit hospital.
“In anticipation of the first meeting, I sent out invitations which read, ‘Scripps Encinitas needs a few good women,’” recalls Marilyn. “More than 30 women showed up, and the group has been growing ever since.”
Today, members of Circle of Life 100 support Scripps Encinitas and its commitment to meet the health care needs of the community, hosting regular health education seminars and an annual Circle of Life 100 fundraising event.
In honor of her tireless dedication to the organization, Marilyn will be awarded the 2010 Distinguished Achievement Award at a special Circle of Life 100 luncheon on Thursday, June 24, 2010.
“I am so proud that Circle of Life 100 has flourished,” says Marilyn. “I consider Scripps family, and hope we can continue to raise awareness and funds to support the nonprofit hospital.”
This year, Circle of Life 100 continues its tradition of philanthropy with the Sixth Annual Circle of Life 100 Celebration: Wine, Women & Shoes, on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2010. The event will benefit women’s diagnostic imaging at Scripps Encinitas, which is vital to detecting breast cancer at its earliest stages.
“As a women’s organization, this cause is close to our hearts. All of us are connected with someone who has had cancer,” says Marilyn. “North County has seen so much growth in recent years, having an imaging center has become necessary. It is critical that the latest technology is easily accessible for our friends, family and community.”