LAGUNA BEACH
In past years Laguna Shanti has had to worry about losing programs when donations were waning for the HIV and AIDS social service agency.
Because of the tight times, Executive Director Sarah Kasman said, she doubled over with joy when she opened last week’s mail and found a $180,000 donation to the nonprofit organization.
It is the largest private donation the group has received since its opening in Laguna Beach 13 years ago.
Deceased Laguna Beach resident Lloyd E. Rabjohn left the money in his will.
“There was no notice of this,” Kasman said. “When I got the check, I ran to our accountant and said, ‘Is this real? I’m either senile or I don’t know how to count.’ ”
The organization, which operates on a $500,000 annual budget, has six employees and 250 volunteers who cater to 350 clients.
Laguna Shanti, which serves Orange County residents, offers counseling, field trips and referral services.
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