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Annual Hawaiian Luau at Veterans Community Center in Citrus Heights canceled

Vereans Community Center
The Veterans Community Center on Sylvan Road in Citrus Heights. // CH Sentinel

By Sara Beth Williams–
The Veterans Community Center has announced that their annual Hawaiian Luau has been canceled this year, due to the passing of founder Jeanne Rounsavell.

Rounsevall passed on Aug. 10, the community center reported on their social media page. A viewing was held during the week at Price Funeral Home. Rounsavell’s husband, Jim, also passed away in 2021.

The annual fundraising event was originally scheduled to take place on Aug. 25 of this year, and is one of their largest fundraisers. The event typically features live music and entertainment from a Hawaiian dance group, who has performed for several years in a row.

In a 2024 interview, Jeanne Rounsavell said the Hawaiian Luau is one of two large fundraisers held annually. All funds raised help maintain the building and pay for meals offered to veterans during the week, with some funds also going toward future projects.

The Veteran’s Community Center is located at 6921 Sylvan Rd. The center was founded by Jeanne and Jim Rounsavell in 2013 and is maintained by unpaid volunteers.