In small towns, certain places become more than just buildings. They become gathering spots for life’s biggest moments, and for Melissa Lanctot, the Santa Cruz Moose Lodge is one of those places.
“I grew up right across the river,” she said. “My family has always been connected to the Moose Lodge in one way or another. It’s just one of those places where people show up for each other.”
That sense of community is at the heart of an upcoming fundraiser benefiting Damians Ladder, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing low- to no-cost home repairs for seniors and individuals with disabilities across Santa Cruz County.
On Sunday, April 19, the organization will host a Spring Fling Burger Night at the Santa Cruz Moose Lodge 545, located at 2470 El Rancho Drive. The family-friendly event runs from 4:30-8pm and promises an evening of food, fun and connection—all for a good cause.
For Lanctot, the event is more than just a fundraiser. It’s a way to honor her husband Damian’s legacy while strengthening the bonds that make Scotts Valley feel like home.
“It’s that small-town feeling,” she said. “Anytime there’s something going on, people step up. The Moose Lodge is always willing to help with the venue, with volunteers, with just creating that welcoming space. Sometimes you don’t even know everyone who’s helping. You just look around and see people pitching in. It’s that communal vibe.”
That spirit will be on full display during the Spring Fling Burger Night. Guests can expect a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere complete with burgers, beverages (for purchase), a scavenger hunt and plenty of opportunities to connect with friends and neighbors.
Tickets are priced at $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under, making the event accessible for families looking for a fun evening out. Beverages, including adult drinks, will be available for purchase at the lodge’s bar, with complimentary water provided.
While the evening is designed to be lighthearted, its purpose is deeply meaningful. Damians Ladder continues to serve some of the county’s most vulnerable residents, helping them maintain safe, livable homes through small but essential repairs.
Lanctot hopes the event will not only raise funds—her goal is around $2,500—but also spark something more lasting.
“I’m really hopeful this can bring people in who have been curious about getting involved,” she said. “It can be like an open door—come see what we’re about, learn how you can help, and become part of something.”
That invitation reflects the broader mission of Damians Ladder: building not just safer homes, but stronger community connections.
And in Scotts Valley, those connections often circle back to familiar places like the Moose Lodge, a venue that has quietly hosted countless milestones over the years.
“It’s kind of a focal point for the community,” Lanctot said. “It’s where people come together.”
All proceeds will go toward Damians Ladder to support the organization’s mission of supporting seniors and those with disabilities to remain in their homes safely.
For those looking to attend, tickets are available online at damiansladder.org.
