Jan. 15, 2013 — Emily Strength, president of the newly formed Lassen D.E.N. (Devoted to Excellence in Neighborhoods) nonprofit organization, appeared before the Lassen County Board of Supervisors at its Jan. 8 meeting to introduce the group to the board during public comment.

The mission of Lassen D.E.N. is to serve the families of Lassen County by providing information, resources, support and activities to enrich their lives and discourage the use of drugs, alcohol and teen pregnancy by providing positive alternatives, and to increase the options for free- and low-cost recreational and educational activities.   

They also plan to provide a location for playgroups, for teenagers to socialize and a place for community members to host classes and have group meetings of their own. 

Strength said a survey is available at surveymonkey.com where potential participants can express their views on needed services the new nonprofit might provide.

According to Strength, the group needs to raise about $20,000 in order to open a facility, and it has sponsored a number of fundraising events.

Several fundraisers are planned including a Zumbathon at 6 p.m. Jan. 25 at the Elks Lodge in Susanville. Tickets are $16 in advance (at Customer Talk, 606 Main Street) and $20 at the door.

The group also plans a Valentine’s Day Bake Sale on Feb. 13 (location to be announced) and a Spaghetti dinner at the Diamond Mountain Casino from 6 to 8 p.m., March 6.

The group seeks more board members and a logo contest for youngsters is currently under way.

Look for updates on Lassen D.E.N. activities and fundraisers on the group’s Facebook page. 

For more information, call 310-0634 or visit the group’s website, lassenden.org.