Peppermint Ridge Celebrates 60 Years of Empowering Persons with Disabilities

Ridgers Rudy M. and John R. along with mascot Heartbeat, greeted guests as they arrived at “Peppermint Possibilities.”

UCC-related Peppermint Ridge in Corona, Calif., kicked off its 60th Anniversary celebration Feb. 2 with “60 Years of Dreams Realized,” an evening of music, dinner, heartfelt speeches, and an auction held at nearby Hidden Valley Golf Club in Norco, Calif.

The Ridge, which helps empower persons with disabilities through a variety of activities and types of therapy, built the night around honoring founders Bob and Mary Jeffery and their family. During the event, the Jefferys’ daughter, Judy Lambert, gave a heartfelt speech about the perseverance of her parents and their dedication to people with developmental disabilities.

Peppermint Ridge also awarded the Corona Chamber of Commerce with its 2019 Community Partner Award for its long-standing relationship with The Ridge. The Chamber has been a vital resource and advocate since 1987. Another community member, Beverly Scott, gave a moving testimonial about the positive impact The Ridge has had on her family since her sister, Barbara, joined the Ridge family in 1993.

Guests were treated to a performance by Peppermint Ridge’s musical group, The Rejoicers, who performed “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers. Ridger Darren L. also performed a solo of “Your Song” by Elton John. The crowd clapped and sang along and gave the singers a standing ovation.

Almost $92,000 was raised during the celebration to assist the residents of Peppermint Ridge.