Message From Our President

Dear Members, Friends, and Supporters,

As autumn arrives, I’m reminded of the unique role our Society plays: we are at once a lifeline in times of crisis and a community of fellowship in moments of joy. This dual mission has never been clearer than in recent months.

With your support, the BBS has been able to stand alongside fellow Britons facing extraordinary challenges, a man in Los Angeles who had been homeless for over a year and is now safely reunited with family back home; a devoted caregiver in the Bay Area shouldering the heartbreak of watching her husband slip away, to whom we could offer small comforts; and a California family suddenly bereaved, whom we were able to assist with funeral costs at their time of deepest need. These are not distant stories, they are reminders of why our mission matters.

Looking ahead, our Annual Christmas Party on Saturday, December 6th will be especially meaningful this year. For the first time, we’ll gather on a weekend at the historic Elks Lodge in San Francisco, a festive new venue paired with a wonderful group rate at the Kensington Park Hotel. This is more than a celebration: it is our largest fundraiser of the year, ensuring that the BBS can continue to provide relief and dignity to those who turn to us in times of crisis.

Many of you have asked how you can help. One of the most impactful ways is through sponsorships and donations for our holiday raffle or wine table, contributions that add sparkle to the evening while directly strengthening our ability to respond to those in need. If you or your business would like to support in this way, we would be deeply grateful.

I encourage you to join us at our fall events, lend a hand at the Dickens Fair, and reserve your place at the Christmas Party. Together, these moments of fellowship sustain the charitable work at the heart of our Society.

Thank you for your generosity, your spirit, and your belief in what we do.

Warm Regards,

Alex J. Sinclair 

President 

British Benevolent Society

Relief Cases:

Standing Together This Fall

As the season turns to fall, we are reminded of both change and continuity: the change that comes with life’s challenges, and the steady continuity of the BBS community standing ready to help. Thanks to your support, the BBS has helped a homeless Brit return home, eased the burden of a caregiver, and stood beside a family facing sudden loss. Together, we’re making a difference when it matters most.

Help with Repatriation: Homeless and British in Los Angeles

The BBS was recently contacted about a British man who had been homeless on the streets of Los Angeles for many months, possibly more than a year. He had come to the United States in search of a new life, but without stable work and too embarrassed to seek support, he soon found himself in crisis. By the time he reached the Consulate and the BBS, he had also reconnected with his family in the UK, where a safe place awaited him.

The BBS quickly stepped in to provide the funds necessary for his repatriation. Thanks to this support, he has now returned home, where we wish him strength and success as he begins to rebuild his life.

Providing Comfort in a Time of Caregiving

The BBS was recently contacted about a member whose husband is in hospice care after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. As she devoted her days to sitting by his side, the demands of caregiving left little time for daily needs.

To help ease this burden, the BBS arranged food deliveries to provide comfort and practical support during this painful time. While we cannot lessen the weight of her loss, we hope this gesture reminds her that she is not alone, and that the BBS community is holding her and her family in our thoughts.

Standing with a Family in Sudden Loss

Standing with a Family in Sudden Loss The BBS was heartbroken to learn of the sudden passing of the wife of a long-term California-based Brit, and devoted mother to their daughter. Known locally for his years of leadership and coaching, he is now facing an unimaginable loss.

In response, the BBS contributed funds toward her burial costs to help ease the unexpected financial burden on the family. While no support can lessen the weight of their grief, we hope this gesture offered the family some comfort and reminded them that they are surrounded by a caring community during this profoundly difficult time.

Upcoming Events

South Bay Happy Hour

Live music, food stalls galore, and good company await at our Los Altos Happy Hour. Don’t forget to join the raffle for your chance to win a special surprise!

Your $20 contribution counts as a charitable donation and helps us continue our mission of providing financial relief to Brits in need.

Event Details:

📍 State Street Market, 170 State Street, Los Altos, CA 94022

📅 Wednesday, September 24, 2025

🕔 5:00pm – 8:30pm

RSVP HERE

South Bay Curry Clubbers

Curry fans, it’s time to gather again! Join us for another delicious evening with the South Bay Curry Clubbers.

Event Details:

📍 Sakoon, 357 Castro Street, Mountain View, CA, 94041

📅 Wednesday, October 15, 2025

🕕 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Expect a relaxed evening filled with conversation, laughter, and of course, incredible Indian cuisine.

Your $50 ticket includes:

🍽️ Appetizer

🍛 Main Course

🍰 Dessert

🍺 1 Beer

✅ Taxes and tip included

All you need to bring is your appetite and love of curry.

📩 RSVP to Senay Ryan at senay.ryan@bbsofca.org

North Bay Happy Hour

Join us for a cozy evening of connection and conversation in beautiful Tiburon.

Event Details:

📍 The Lodge at Tiburon

📅 Thursday, October 23, 2025

🕔 5:00pm – 8:00pm

💙 $20 optional donation.

Be sure to bring a jacket or scarf, as the evenings by the Bay can get chilly.

Come raise a glass with friends old and new. We look forward to seeing you there!

RSVP HERE

2025 BBS Annual Christmas Party

A festive new venue, a weekend celebration, and early-bird savings await!

The British Benevolent Society warmly invites you to our Annual Christmas Party on Saturday, December 6th, 2025 – a highlight of the festive season and a cherished tradition for our community.

This year brings something new: we’ll be celebrating on a Saturday evening in the beautifully restored Elks Lodge No. 3 at the Kensington Park Hotel in San Francisco. With elegant surroundings, fine dining, and joyful company, it promises to be a night to remember!

Evening Highlights:

• A complimentary glass of British Sparkling Wine upon arrival

• A sumptuous three-course holiday dinner (entrée selections below)

• Live music and an exciting holiday raffle

• A warm, welcoming crowd in cocktail or formal attire

Entrée Selections:

• Grilled Marinated Pork Chop with Honey Grain Mustard Glaze

• Pan-Seared Salmon with Drambuie Sauce

• Sage Brown Butter Ravioli over Arugula with Crispy Shallots & Seasonal Vegetables

Early-Bird Tickets (until November 14):

• Member – $185

• Non-Member – $195

• Table of 8 – $1,295

Standard Tickets (after November 14):

• Member & Non-Member – $215

• Table of 8 – $1,670

Accommodations:

Make a night of it! A limited number of discounted rooms are available at the Kensington Park Hotel. Contact the hotel directly and mention the BBS for special rates.

Support Our Mission:

Proceeds from this event benefit the British Benevolent Society, enabling us to continue providing vital relief to Brits in need across the Western U.S.

Reserve your seat today and join us for a magical night of festive cheer, elegant dining, and community spirit!

BUY EARLY-BIRD TICKETS HERE

Volunteer at the Dickens Fair This Christmas!

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair (running 5 weekends, Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) brings Victorian London to life with music halls, pubs, shops, and hundreds of costumed performers.

We’re seeking volunteers to staff our table, share BBS’s mission, highlight donation and membership opportunities, and answer questions.

It’s a great way to support our mission, connect with the community, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Whether you can help for one shift or multiple weekends, we’d love to have you join us.

If you're interested in volunteering this year, email senay.ryan@bbsofca.org for more details.

Previous Events

BBS x BABC Happy Hour

Spark Social, San Francisco

Thursday, September 4, 2025

159th Scottish Highland Gathering & Games

Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton

August 30-31, 2025

We were honored to mark the occasion of Eleanor Kiloh’s first official day as San Francisco British Consul General, joined by BBS President Alex Sinclair, who was pictured alongside her to commemorate the moment.

We were also delighted to welcome Maria Alnwick, Consul General of Canada, as well as extend a warm Highland welcome to our distinguished guests: California State Congressman Jerry McNerney, Alameda County Supervisor David Haubert, Pleasanton Mayor Jack Balch, Livermore Mayor John Marchand, and Chief William Hardie of the Caledonian Club of San Francisco.

North Bay Happy Hours

Tiburon Tavern

Thursday, August 21 and Thursday, September 18, 2025

South Bay Happy Hour

State Street Market, Los Altos

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Hosted by BBS Member Den Jones of 909 Cyber

New and Renewing Members

Welcome NEW Corporate Member Raymond Lee,

Clarity Real Estate Brokerage

I grew up in London and went to Haberdashers’ Boys School in Elstree, where rugby quickly became my passion. After moving to the States, I played fly half for San José State, the San Jose Marauders, and the Seahawks. Rugby taught me grit, quick thinking, and teamwork — skills I’ve carried into my 23-year career in real estate.

With real estate in my family — my mum worked with Century 21 in Huntington Beach — I’ve always valued helping people through one of life’s biggest decisions. My approach is simple: straight talk, strong negotiation, and a dash of humour.

When I met Senay and learned about the British Benevolent Society, I knew I wanted to get involved. Giving back has always mattered to me, and I’m proud to support such a meaningful community as a Corporate member.

Thinking of buying or selling a home? Partner with Clarity Real Estate. With every transaction, a donation is made to support the BBS.