About us and Mission

about us

Schlaraffia Am Stillen Meer - (ASM) - meaning “Schlaraffia at the Tranquil Sea”, was formed in 1985 as a California Nonprofit Membership Corporation in San Diego, CA, and is an independent chapter of the worldwide organization “Allschlaraffia”, based in Switzerland. ASM is an enterprise, whose activities are not directed towards financial or other economic gains. While originally concentrating on fostering and refining the engagement of its members in promoting the ideals arts, humor, friendship and tolerance, today the purpose of ASM as a Nonprofit organization has broadened significantly. Presently ASM has 20 active members, and they meet regularly in their clubhouse to foster their ideals, but also to discuss charitable activities, cultural integration and education. Invited guests speak about cultural or historic events, educational challenges, how to fight hunger and poverty, or they entertain by performing arts and music. Several events are scheduled throughout the year to make the mission, values and goals of ASM known to the public, attract new membership, and raise funds for the charitable and educational activities of the enterprise.

our mission

ASM is organized as a Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation for charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. In the true sense of Give & Take and the strong belief in friendship and tolerance, ASM engages in supporting charitable and educational activities for children. It is a proven fact that poverty significantly impacts the education of children. Lack of resources such as books, school supplies and technologies hinder their ability to engage in learning activities and successfully complete homework. Furthermore, they may not have access to proper nutrition which affects their cognitive development. Children living in impoverished communities typically attend schools with fewer resources, less experienced teachers and outdated educational materials, consequently not offering the same opportunities and quality of education as schools in more affluent areas. ASM supports local and international organizations already providing direct material support for impoverished children.

Furthermore, true to its ideals of fostering the arts, ASM is engaging in supporting local artists by organizing exhibitions or musical performances within ASM clubhouse facilities.