First 5 San Bernardino provides more than 8,000 Gifts

$50,000 Grant to Children’s Fund helps underprivileged children during Holidays

Board of Supervisors James Ramos, Janice Rutherford, and Josie Gonzales are pictured with Linda Haugan, Asst. Executive Officer of Human Services and First 5 Commissioner; and Erin Phillips, President & CEO, Children’s Fund; along with Board of Supervisors Curt Hagman and Robert Lovingood

More than 8,000 disadvantaged young children in San Bernardino County are receiving holiday gifts because of the $50,000 grant provided to Children’s Fund from First 5 San Bernardino.

The check presentation was made on Tuesday, December 16 at the Board of Supervisors meeting in San Bernardino County.

“This grant demonstrates the strong partnership we have with First 5 San Bernardino, ensuring that these precious children will receive a gift during the holidays, which may be the only gift received,” says Erin Phillips, President & CEO of Children’s Fund.  “With childhood poverty creeping above 28%, sometimes it’s the simplest things, things that we may take for granted, that matter the most to our children.”

This is the 26th year of the Children’s Fund Celebration of Giving Campaign, and it is because of partners like First 5 San Bernardino that the campaign continues to provide more than 20,000 gifts each year within the Inland Empire. Other partners include various departments of the County of San Bernardino, Spark of Love, Stater Bros. Markets, Arrowhead Credit Union, Amazon.com, KFROG, and generous other local businesses and residents who participate in this campaign.

“It truly is about the kids,” exclaims Karen E. Scott, Executive Director of First 5 San Bernardino.  “At First 5 we strive to provide optimal health and development for young children and their families.  Our relationship with Children’s Fund is a perfect example of both entities working towards the same goal.” First 5 San Bernardino was created in December 1998 in order to realize the benefits of the California Children and Families Act.  The act created a program for the purpose of promoting, supporting and improving the early development of children from the prenatal stage to five years of age.

MORE EDUCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS TO BE AWARDED

U.S. Bank awards Children’s Fund $20,000 Grant for foster and former foster youth education

SAN BERNARDINO, California  (Wednesday, December 3, 2014) – U.S. Bank Foundation has approved and presented $20,000 for Children’s Fund Foster Youth Educational Programs which will empower foster and former foster youth through higher education.

Erin Phillips (l) and Lee Jackman (r) accept check from U.S. Bank

Caitlin, a participant in Children’s Fund educational program, is a great example of how U.S. Bank’s grant to Children’s Fund Scholarship Fund makes a difference to foster youth in our local communities.  At the age of 11, Caitlin was left alone at home after her mom had been incarcerated.  Trying to maintain a normal existence, Caitlin would get herself dressed, pick oranges from the backyard tree for food, and walk one mile to school each day.  She did this for two weeks before a neighbor noticed something was wrong and called authorities.  She entered the foster care system, being placed in a kinship program with her sister at her grandmother’s.  At the age of 16, Caitlin became pregnant and decided that she wanted more for her young daughter. Through California State University – San Bernardino Caitlin has received a scholarship from Children’s Fund to be able to continue her education. 

“I am so thankful to Children’s Fund, this quarter alone the cost of my books are $800, and the scholarship helps me continue to get my education.”  Caitlin, now the mother to two children, is currently a senior, works at CVS in the pharmacy, and plans to attend Loma Linda Medical University to acquire her Pharmaceutical degree.  “I want my children to be secure,” states Caitlin. “My strength are my children, and I am so grateful for those who have helped me along the way.”

“Seeing the tenacity of children who work hard through their difficult circumstances is inspiring,” says Richard Madsen, Senior Vice President & Regional Manager of U.S. Bank. “U.S. Bank is proud to partner with Children’s Fund to help these children achieve their goals.”

Less than 5% of foster or former foster youth graduate from college with four year degrees. “Every child should believe that their dreams matter, and that they have a future,” says Erin Phillips, President & CEO of Children’s Fund. “It is because of generous financial partners, like U.S. Bank, that youth from our own communities have a real opportunity to change their own story through education, maybe even for generations to come.”  In the past year, Children’s Fund has helped more than 53,000 children from every area of San Bernardino County.

The A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation Receives National Recognition

Andrew Watt of AFP with Erik Anderson and Erin & Gary Lastinger of A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation

Erin Lastinger speaking at AFP National Conference in Washington, D.C.

A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation Receives National Recognition from AFP

                                                       

                                                      

Erin Lastinger, Erik Anderson and Gary Lastinger are awarded 2014 Outstanding Foundation by AFP in Washington, D.C.

(Arlington, VA) October 7, 2014:  The A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation, located in Irvine, California, and one of the region’s philanthropic leaders, has been named the 2014 Outstanding Foundation by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

The foundation will receive its honor at the National Philanthropy Day® Honors: A Celebration of People and Impact awards event on November 15 in Washington, D.C. at the Omni Shoreham Hotel.

Passionate about philanthropy, A. Gary Anderson established the beginning of the foundation before his untimely passing at the age of 52. Now his children, Erin Lastinger and Erik Anderson, along with Erin’s husband Gary, have continued his legacy, investing almost $46 million to over 200 organizations since 1994.

Just some of the organizations the foundation has supported include Chapman University, the University of California Riverside Foundation, the Casa Colina Centers for Rehabilitation Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and Children’s Fund.  The foundation has worked with many charities to re-evaluate their methods, leading to improved program delivery, partnership, and outreach for fundraising.

The foundation has also focused significant funds on serving youth. Through a longtime partnership with Children’s Fund, the foundation has provided instrumental support to the Children’s Assessment Center, where abused and neglected children in San Bernardino County receive medical assessment of their injuries, tell their story just once to all appropriate investigative personnel, and receive therapy and referrals to ongoing resources—all in a child-friendly environment.

“The A. Gary Anderson Foundation was established by my father with the express desire to help at-risk youth,” says Erin Lastinger. “It is our mission and passion to carry on my father’s legacy to support these children.  Our family will continue to do everything in our power to protect and serve our kids in this community.”

The National Philanthropy Day® Honors recognize outstanding leadership, commitment and generosity in philanthropy. The A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation is one of six finalists who will be honored on National Philanthropy Day®, November 15, the day to celebrate philanthropy and its impact on the world. More information can be found at www.npdlove.com .

40,000 BOOKS COMING TO SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY

First Book to Distribute Books on Friday & Saturday, October 17 & 18, 2014

A sample of books to be distributed.

A total of 40,000 books will be distributed from First Book on Friday and Saturday, October 17 & 18, 2014 at the Inland Empire United Way Warehouse located at 9644 Hermosa Avenue in Rancho Cucamonga.

Friday, October 17, 2014 First Book will hold a Media Day beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Media will be able to take video/photos of the 40,000 books and their distribution as teachers, child care providers and other child-serving professionals select their quantity of books designated.

Ted Alejandre, deputy superintendent, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools and Dr. Tomás Morales, president of California State University, San Bernardino will be in attendance to experience the County receiving these much needed books.

"County Schools is pleased to participate with First Book in this very important event for the children of San Bernardino County,” states Alejandre. “Research shows that early literacy is essential to a student’s academic success. Providing children with books early on helps to develop a love of reading they will carry through their academic and adult life, contributing to life-long learning and future success."

San Bernardino County Preschool Services Department, Children’s Fund, First 5 San Bernardino, Inland Empire United Way, Child Care Resource Center, County of San Bernardino Library, National CORE and San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools have joined together as an Advisory Board to form “San Bernardino County First Book (SBCFB)”.  First Book provides access to new books for children in need, transforming the lives of children and elevating the quality of education by making new, high-quality books available on an ongoing basis

Learning to read is critical to a child’s success – both in school and in life.  Literacy is one of the best predictor’s of a child’s success. For children who are growing up in poverty; books are scarce. Only 42% of third graders in San Bernardino County are proficient in reading. 

Through grass roots efforts and networking, the Advisory Board worked to get several schools and organizations registered (more than 675 registrants) to be eligible to receive books through First Book.  The books will be given to 20,000 children (each child will receive two books) to take home.

First Book President, Kyle Zimmer, founded First Book with two friends in 1992 to create an organization dedicated to providing new books to children in need.  In that first year, First Book distributed 12,000 books in three communities – and now deliver more than 35,000 new books on average per day.

8-Year-Old Raises $2,500 for Children's Fund

Raven Cases of Highland raises $2,500 to help underprivileged kids

 

Raven Casas is 8 years old and lives in Highland, California.  She attends Valley Preparatory School in Redlands.  She is not like most 8-year-olds! In May of this year she decided that she wanted to help kids who can't afford things, even things as simple as school supplies.  Her grandparents helped her surf the internet, and Raven chose Children's Fund to donate to because they help underprivileged children.  Since May she has raised $2,500 through the help of fellow students, family, and friends.

Raven's parents, Latisha and Patrick Casas are very proud of their daughter and were not too surprised by their daughter's desire to help as they try to emphasize the importance of giving. They suggested that she organize a fund drive.  A little bit nervous, this second grader made a presentation to the middle school students at her school.

"The big kids responded in an encouraging way, going to their headmaster to get permission to put a collection container in the school office," Raven said.   Not stopping there, Raven reached out to family members, friends and her karate class teammates, determined to collect enough money to make a difference.

Children's Fund is delighted that she chose their organization.  "Kids helping kids, how great is that? We are so pleased that an 8-year-old would be caring enough of others, and to actually follow through and make it happen is amazing," states Karen Blanco of Children’s Fund.

Claremont/West-End Auxiliary of Children's Fund Presents Check for $56,500

Members of the Claremont/West-End Auxiliary, Sue Volz (l) and Barbara Williams (r) presents Erin Phillips, President & CEO of Children's Fund with a check for $56,500.  

FOSTER YOUTH’S STORY RECEIVES COMPASSIONATE RESPONSE

When Alicia Washington rose to speak to a room filled with successful business men and women during the 22^nd Annual A. Gary Anderson Memorial Golf Classic, silence settled over the room.

“During the first year of my life, I was left in a taxi cab and became part of the foster system,” said Alicia.  “I grew up in many different homes, and went to many different schools.  I soon realized that I wanted to create my own ‘freedom pass’ through education.  My 18^th birthday fell the day before my high school graduation, which meant I was homeless.  On the day of graduation I had to try and find transportation to the graduation ceremony.” 

Washington continued her story of being homeless for quite a while and then discovered a program offered by San Bernardino County which provided transitional housing for foster youth.  She recently graduated from California State University – San Bernardino and proudly stated, “I again graduated, the day before my birthday.”  She went on to say that she is the voice for foster youth.

After Washington received a standing ovation, a $50,000 pledge was made by the Colonies Partners for foster youth.  And, the pledges kept coming in, totaling more than $75,000 for older foster youth by the end of the evening, bringing the grand total raised by the event to more than $500,000.

The largest annual fundraiser for Children’s Fund, the event’s co-title sponsors were the A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation and Diversified Pacific Opportunity Fund, and the event sponsor was Young Homes. After his passing in 1992, the A. Gary Anderson Memorial Golf Classic was established to continue Gary’s work supporting at-risk and abused children through Children’s Fund. Since its inception, the AGA Memorial Golf Classic has raised more than $6 million to serve the most vulnerable children in our region.

“I cannot say thank you enough.  Thank you on behalf of the children whose lives and futures you are changing,” stated Erin Phillips, president & CEO of Children’s Fund.  “We are grateful for all that has been donated, knowing that there is still so much more that we can do together.”

$1 MILLION DONATION TO HELP ABUSED CHILDREN A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation Donates to Children’s Fund

Erin Phillips, Erin and Gary Lastinger, Dr. Sheridan-Matney and Vicente Wright

Children’s Fund announced a $1,000,000 gift from the A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation during the grand opening of the Children’s Assessment Center of San Bernardino, hosted by the Children’s Fund President’s Circle on Wednesday, May 21, 2014.  The donation will benefit the children who are treated at the Children’s Assessment Center.

The Children’s Assessment Center treats children ranging in age from 0-18 from every area of San Bernardino County who are suspected victims of abuse and neglect. Nearly half of the children seen at the Assessment Center are under the age of 5, signaling that a significant portion of the population served by this Center are very young and often cannot speak for themselves.  Last year, the Center treated more than 1,300 children from our own communities.

“This is the largest single gift in Children’s Fund’s history,” states Erin Phillips, president & CEO of Children’s Fund.   “This gift will support the Center's continued emergency response to children, as well as provide a seed investment for a Children's Fund endowment, which will help protect the future of the Center.”  The lobby of the Children’s Assessment Center has been named the A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation Lobby in response to their generosity.

Erin Lastinger, daughter of A. Gary Anderson, spoke about the donation.  “It is our mission and passion to carry on my father’s legacy to support at-risk and abused children.  Gary and I promise we will do everything in our power to protect and serve our kids in this community.” The A. Gary Anderson Memorial Golf Classic, benefitting Children’s Fund, is in its 22^nd year and has raised more than $5.5 million to assist abused and neglected children.

Dr. Clare Sheridan-Matney, the medical director of the Children’s Assessment Center, was honored for her 30 years of dedication and hard work, treating thousands of abused children throughout her career.  “It’s hard to see the cruelty that people inflict upon children,” states Sheridan-Matney.  “It is especially touching when you meet children who have managed to retain innocence and humanity throughout it all.”  Speaking about the new Center, Sheridan-Matney continued, “We want the children to feel comfortable at the Center.  We want them to understand that they do matter, that we are here for them, and they do have a voice.”

Erin & Gary Lastinger in the A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation Lobby

AT-RISK CHILDREN TO BENEFIT FROM SAN MANUEL BAND OF MISSION INDIANS GRANT



Children's Assessment Center Reception Area

Play room for children so they feel comfortable

                                                                         

Children’s Fund has been awarded a $100,000 grant by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians to enable the San Bernardino County Children’s Assessment Center to provide  quality medical services to the County’s most vulnerable children- those who have been physically or sexually abused, or severely neglected.

The Children’s Assessment Center treats children ages 0-18, as well as developmentally delayed young adults, from every area of San Bernardino County who are suspected victims of abuse. Last year, 45% of the children seen at the Assessment Center were under the age of 5, signaling that a significant portion of the population served by this Center are very young and often cannot speak for themselves.  Last year, the Center treated more than 1,600 children from our own communities.

“Children’s Fund is grateful that the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has prioritized improving health outcomes, especially for our region’s vulnerable abused and neglected children.  ” states Erin Phillips, President and CEO of Children’s Fund.  “As the fundraising arm for the Children’s Assessment Center, together we work to protect children from living a life in harm and without basic necessities.  San Manuel Band of Mission Indians’ grant at this critical time, when the need is so great, will help provide life-saving services.”

This investment by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, in partnership with Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and the County of San Bernardino, will support the medical services performed at the Children’s Assessment Center.  These exams assess injuries as well as capture evidence that assist in the evaluation of the child abuse allegation.  Additionally, at the child-friendly Center, youth are able to tell their story once, to all appropriate personnel, significantly reducing their trauma during the investigative process. Additional partners include Children & Family Services, Sheriff’s Department & Police Association, District Attorney’s Office, Department of Public Health, Department of Behavioral Health, Children’s Network and Family Law Court Services.  This investment, along with the support of all of these agencies working together, will make a strong and lasting impact on the Center’s ability to serve our community.

CHILDREN'S FUND JOINS THE RACE - Benefits At-Risk Children

Themed “A Day at the Races” by Claremont West End Auxiliary who fundraises for Children’s Fund, promises to be a fun-filled day for all who attend on Saturday, March 15, 2014 at the Santa Anita Park at 285 West Huntington Drive in Arcadia.

“What a great way to enjoy a Saturday with friends and family,” says JoAnn Mineer, a long-standing member of the Claremont West End Auxiliary. “We have put together a race package that includes admission, valet parking and lunch in the Club House Plaza. And, what’s great is that while you are enjoying yourself you will also be raising money for the at-risk children in our local communities.”

President and CEO Erin Phillips of Children’s Fund states, “Claremont West End Auxiliary fundraises for us throughout the year.  The excitement of thoroughbred racing at such a beautiful venue is an enjoyable experience.  Children’s Fund is grateful for the support that the Auxiliary gives to help make brighter tomorrows for the underprivileged children in our communities.”

The gates open at 10:30 a.m. and the races begin at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are available by calling JoAnne Mineer at 909.593.8129 or Barbara Williams at 909.899.6797. Tickets are priced are $65 each.

Founded in 1958 by a group of West End ladies, Claremont West End Auxiliary have been providing support for adoptive children and families.  In 1992 the Auxiliary decided to dedicate their time and energy to support Children’s Fund. Today, the Auxiliary continues to raise funds, promote community awareness and carry out projects in support of children at risk through activities such as the Home Tour, Membership Tea and A Day at the Races.

Children's Fund Receives $50,000 from First 5 San Bernardino

 

 

Children’s Fund presented the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors a picture frame of ornaments decorated by children who received a holiday gift during the Celebration of Giving Campaign to acknowledge their 25 years of collecting gifts and toys for the underprivileged children in our local communities.  The presentation took place in the County Government Center.

“We are grateful for our partnership with the Board of Supervisors and the County of San Bernardino,” states Erin Phillips, President and CEO of Children’s Fund.  “It is because of these partnerships that we are able to make a difference in the lives of so many underprivileged children in our communities.”  Children’s Fund has helped more than 50,000 children in 2013.

Operations Manager of First 5 San Bernardino, Cindy Faulkner was also in attendance, presenting Children’s Fund with a check for $50,000 to be used for gifts this holiday season.  “It is truly all about the kids,” exclaims Faulkner.  “We strive to honor and respect the diversity of our community and prioritize the needs to ensure development for young children and their families. Our partnership with Children’s Fund is a perfect example of both entities working towards the same goal.” First 5 San Bernardino was created in December 1998 in order to realize the benefits of the California Children and Families Act, created for the purpose of promoting, supporting, and improving the early development of children from the prenatal stage to five years of age.

“San Bernardino County appreciates the support Children’s Fund and First 5 San Bernardino provide to thousands of underprivileged children in our County, and we look forward to continuing our longstanding partnership with these critical agencies,” San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chair Janice Rutherford said.

 

DONATE PROM DRESSES FOR FOSTER YOUTH by February 24th

Children’s Fund, in partnership with San Bernardino County Children and Family Services’ Independent Living Program, is requesting donations of new or gently used prom dresses, especially Large and X-Large sizes, for the foster youth who are planning to attend their prom.

“Together we host a Prom Extravaganza for foster youth in their senior year of high school,” states Kristin Williams, programs manager of Children’s Fund. “Prom is an experience that every senior should be able to attend.  At the Extravaganza community volunteers assist the youth with tips for hair, nails, make-up, how to tie a tie and are taught the proper etiquette for formal events.”  The event concludes with each foster youth receiving a prom dress or tuxedo rental certificate.

"As a father of 3 adult children, I know how expensive it is to attend prom", says Randy Schulz, director of Children and Family Services. "We can make sure our foster youth have the opportunity to attend their prom with the help and support of our local community. Please help make a foster youth's dreams come true by donating today.”

Don’t have a dress? Consider donating shoes, purses, hair products, belts, ties, jewelry, new/unused make up and other prom essentials.

Start your spring cleaning early, and give a foster youth a memorable prom experience.  Donations are being accepted at Children’s Fund, 348 W. Hospitality Lane, Suite 110, San Bernardino, CA 92408 through Monday, February 24, 2014.  Or, you can make a monetary donation, and Children’s Fund will do the shopping for you. Donations can be made at the office, or online at www.childrensfundonline.org.

GIRL SCOUTS PARTNER WITH CHILDREN’S FUND

Celebration of Giving Campaign Receives 350 Gifts/Toys

The Girl Scouts at the warehouse

 The Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council joined together with Children’s Fund’s Annual Celebration of Giving Campaign to collect toys and gifts for the underprivileged children in our communities. This is the first time the Girl Scouts have collaborated with Children’s Fund in this venture.

These Girl Scouts took the task of collecting new, unwrapped toys all around their communities and delivered them to the warehouse where Children’s Fund were utilizing for the holidays. The first delivery in December netted more than 250 gifts/toys. It was a heartwarming scene to see all of the Girl Scouts hover around the trunks of the cars overflowing with toys. 

Girl Scouts unloading the toys

“It was awesome that the Girl Scouts actually visited the warehouse to donate their gifts,” said Karen Blanco, Marketing and Public Relations Manager. “It gave the kids an opportunity to see first-hand how this campaign works, and what a difference their donations make.”  As a small thank you, a hot chocolate bar and cookies were available for those in attendance.

The second delivery of 90+ toys, brought the amount donated to 350 gifts/toys. They are collected, sorted and distributed to different communities throughout the Inland Empire, for the less fortunate kids through the Celebration of Giving Campaign which is celebrating its 25th year.

“The Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio look forward to future partnerships with Children’s Fund,” said Mary Moore, Vice President of Programs and Events. “The toy drive was a great success and a great first start to many more future projects and events with Children’s Fund.”  Each Girl Scout who donated a toy received a patchfor their vest.