Rhodes Homes holds charity event to raise funds for public education

Donald J Pliner's appearance in Las Vegas to launch his spring 2008 collection was highlighted by a fundraiser for The Public Education Foundation.

The event was hosted by Glynda Rhodes, vice president of interior and architectural design at Rhodes Homes and a foundation board member, along with Christina Bird, Olga Lyles, Christina Mamer, Vince Pompei, Lori Rogich and Lynn Weidner. The event was held March 28 at the Donald J Pliner signature store in The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.

Rhodes brought Pliner and the foundation together three years ago when she selected the foundation as beneficiary of the event suggested by Pliner.

As a longtime supporter of local schools and the foundation, Rhodes said she was excited by the success of the fundraisers and pleased that the boutique's iconic designer and his wife and model, Lisa Pliner, attended the events.

"This is truly one of my favorite charity events each year and it's great that we are able to build on the success of last year's event and continue to raise funds for The Public Education Foundation," Rhodes said. "The event is a wonderful way to give people an opportunity to help benefit our community's schools."

Twenty percent of the proceeds from sales at the Pliner boutique on March 28 were donated to The Public Education Foundation and the Donald J Pliner Peace for the Children Foundation.

"We are once again thankful to Donald J Pliner, Glynda Rhodes, the Peace for the Children Foundation and all of our hosts for their support of this wonderful event and we appreciate their commitment to public education," said Judi Steele, president of the Foundation. "The funds raised during this event will help The Public Education Foundation continue its mission of improving the quality of teaching and learning in Southern Nevada."

Pliner is known around the world for his fashion-forward designs that have been worn by celebrities such as Justin Timberlake, Carmen Electra and Shaquille O'Neal.

Dozens of people in attendance witnessed the release of Pliner's spring collection, with the designer on hand to speak about the inspiration for his creations and sign shoes, handbags and belts that were purchased during the event.

The Public Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization that Rhodes Homes has worked closely with for years, is dedicated to effectively and efficiently delivering public-private resources to meet the challenges of educating a growing and diverse Southern Nevada population. The Foundation's programs and initiatives empower teachers and students, reduce bureaucracy, ensure accountability, leverage resources and deliver results. Since 1991, the foundation has raised more than $50 million to improve teaching and learning in Southern Nevada's public schools. For more information, visit thepef.org.

The Donald J Pliner Peace for the Children Foundation was created to channel funds to deserving projects and initiatives that advance peace, care and welfare of children in need. Every month, Pliner donates a portion of sales from the company to the foundation.

Rhodes Homes is the largest privately held home building company in Southern Nevada and a pioneer in the development of master-planned communities in the Las Vegas Valley.

The company's signature master plans are Rhodes Ranch in the southwestern valley and Tuscany Residential Village in Henderson, both of which feature homes on golf courses.

Founded by Glynda's husband, Jim Rhodes, in 1985, Rhodes Homes has built more than 30 communities and nearly 7,000 homes.

For more information, visit rhodeshomes.com.