$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.

CHILDREN’S FUND RECEIVES $17,500 FROM U.S. BANK

 

    Foster Youth to Benefit through Scholarship Educational Programs

 

 U.S. Bank has approved and presented $17,500 for Children’s Fund Foster Youth Educational Programs which will empower foster and former foster youth through higher education.

Venus, a participant in Children’s Fund programs, 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.  Last spring Children’s Fund awarded four scholarships to foster youth at the Shine-A-Light Breakfast, and Venus was one of the recipients.  Her story shows the determination and resiliency that we celebrate.

At the age of 13, Venus was introduced to drugs by her mother.  With both parents being drug addicts, Venus ended up on the streets and became pregnant.  By the age of 14, Venus, still a child herself, had two children.  In February 2012, protective services were called, and Venus’ children were placed into foster care.  Knowing that her life would not get better if she did not make some substantial changes, Venus also entered foster care and her life began to turn around.

She graduated from high school with a 3.25 GPA. She currently is attending San Bernardino Valley College, studying to become a registered nurse.  She has both of her children back with her and has been drug free for 18 months.  Venus recently sent an email to Erin Phillips, president & CEO of Children’s Fund.

“I just wanted to give you an update and thank you for the scholarship.  I am attending San Bernardino Valley College.  The money helped to pay for books, class and school supplies.  Again, thank you,” Venus’ email read.

Richard Madsen presents check to Erin Phillips and Vicente Wright

Venus receives Scholarship

“Less than 5% of foster or former foster youth graduate from college with four year degrees. It is because of generous financial supporters, like U.S. Bank, that we are able to make a real difference in the lives of these young adults,” says Phillips.  Children’s Fund provides scholarship funds at Cal Poly Pomona, Cal State San Bernardino as well as the county’s four junior colleges for foster and former foster youth.