by Pat Tyson

When Jennifer Aniston celebrated her birthday in México, fifteen years ago, she elevated the occasion into something much more significant and long-lasting. The Hollywood actress asked her friends to consider donations to one of her favorite charities, Friends of El Faro (FOEF), in lieu of gifts. She was also behind the effort for the launch of Farita, the doll that benefited FOEF, the non-profit established to finance the efforts of Casa Hogar Sion, a highly deserving orphanage in Tijuana, B.C.

Held in Los Cabos, the festivities took place at a favorite retreat for the actress, One&Only Palmilla, joined with Anniston as partners in the roll-out and sales of the Farita doll. Designed and produced by local artisans, Farita’s proceeds went to Casa Hogar Sion, the much-lauded orphanage founded by “Mama” Carmen and “Papa” Jorge González, helping them provide shelter, food and love to more than one-hundred of Tijuana’s most at-risk children.

“Some twenty five years ago, when my friends, Leigh Kilton-Smith and her husband, Adam Smith, told me about the charity they had started called Friends of El Faro, and about the children they are directly helping, I just knew I had to get involved,” Aniston says. “When I actually saw with my own eyes the love and appreciation these kids have for the very things we all take for granted – food, shelter, hugs. I was determined to contribute in any way I could. I’m so pleased that One&Only Palmilla joined me in doing our part to help these children – fifteen years ago.”

Founded twenty five years ago by the Smiths, Friends of El Faro have been providing more than 85 percent of Casa Hogar Sion’s funding through their annual events.

“I’m overjoyed that our friend Jennifer and the amazing folks at One&Only Palmilla have joined forces to help our wonderful children,” stated Kilton-Smith, back then. “Adam and I are overwhelmed with joy, thinking how Mama Carmen and Papa Jorge and our children will benefit from these additional funds.”

 All profits from the sale of the doll went to FOEF. The Los Cabos artisans who hand-crafted these dolls are part of a local foundation, Sarahuaro, which supports women children living in homelesss shelters by teaching them skill to help themselves. Thus, Farita is also helping the local economy.

“We are truly honored that Jennifer Aniston, one of our favorite guests chose to have her birthday at One&Only Palmilla with her closest friends, and to partner with us on benefiting such a worthy cause,” said back then, the late Edward Steiner, SVP of One&Only Resorts, Latin America and The Caribbean. “Not only did the Farita doll bring attention to Friends of El Faro, it highlight the talent of our local Mexican artists. It’s our genuine hope that our guests will follow Ms. Aniston’s example and adopt a Farita doll to support the children who are in great need.”

The renewed One&Only Palmilla Resort maintains the classic Mexican ambiance, which has made it a favorite among famous international personalities since its opening in 1956, while expanding and recreating the legendary property for a new generation of travelers. The resort features luxuriously appointed spacious rooms and suites that offer breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortés, as well as a spa, restaurants, pools, conference center and a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Golf Club. A renowned chapel makes the resort a favorite for weddings.