|
3rd Annual Virtual Caring, Sharing & Champagning Fundraiser
Benefitting Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking Survivors & Their Children
October 28, 6-7 p.m. PST, San Diego, CA- With the collaboration and assistance of their partners, supporters and sponsors, Operation For HOPE Foundation will hold its 3rd Annual Caring, Sharing & Champagning fundraiser virtually this year. OFH Foundation's HOPE Fundprovides emergency financial assistance to help domestic violence victims with urgent circumstances. The HOPE Fund has helped victims: pay for hotels to stay safe until transition housing becomes available; purchase bus or plane tickets so victims can flee to another state for family support; pay for auto repairs to ensure reliable transportation.
San Diego has seen a spike of domestic violence arrests from January 1 through July 1, 2020 where injuries were reported, with an increase of 112 cases compared to the same period in 2019 and an increase of 213 cases compared to the same period in 2018. OFH Foundation is keenly aware that stay-at-home orders contribute to the isolation that can trap victims of domestic violence. Without the ability to work away from the home or attend in-person school, victims of domestic violence may lack access to their co-workers, teachers, or friends who could otherwise provide that open door in seeking safety. When the pandemic began, the District Attorney for San Diego, together with the city’s domestic violence community partner agencies, created a Domestic Violence Resource List, which is updated regularly and provides contact and other critical information about the entities that are offering free resources and support services. The Domestic Violence Resource List can be accessed here: Office of the San Diego District Attorney DV Resource List.
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness month, and OFH Foundation is asking the San Diego community to listen and watch for red flags during interactions with family members, friends and co-workers. When concerns arise that someone may be in an abusive relationship, it is imperative to ask, “Are you ok, are you safe at home?” Together, we will shine out the darkness of domestic violence.
Learn more visit, www.operationforhope.org “upcoming events”. Join us in Giving the Gift of HOPE!
Derek and David Carr Poster Released
to Save Lives and Stop Domestic Violence!
Derek and David Carr, Operation For HOPE Foundation, Kern County District Attorney’s Office,
Kern County Family Justice Center, Dignitaries and Community released to Awareness & Prevention Poster Campaign
Center Helping Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Child and Elder Abuse Victims, and their Children
Who: Kern County District Attorney’s Office, Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault, Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, Kern County Department of Human Services, and Child Support Services. Other offsite partners include the Bakersfield Police Department, Kern County Sheriff’s Office, Dress for Success Bakersfield, and Aging and Adult Services, and Operation For HOPE Foundation.
What: Unveiling of the Center’s Domestic Violence Awareness Poster Campaign, “Make The Call! The poster highlights Derek and David Carr as current and former NFL Quarterbacks on supporting the Center’s mission and campaign. Thousands of 11” x 17” posters will be distributed and displayed at schools, boys and girls clubs, non-profit organizations, libraries, business storefronts, and at many other locations to create awareness about the access to help and resources available at the Kern County Family Justice Center.
Why: Kern County Family Justice Center is helping Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Child and Elder Abuse Victims, and their Children. This comprehensive and centralized Center of multi-disciplinary agencies provide coordinated professional services in a safe and welcoming environment, www.kernfjc.com. The poster campaign is a partnership and was created by Operation For HOPE Foundation, whose mission is to raise awareness about domestic violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue. www.operationforhope.org
Where: Kern County Family Justice Center, 2101 Oak Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301
 
Girls’ Pop Group Speaking Out in the Prevention of
Domestic and Teen Dating Violence!
Public service announcement to engage communities nationwide in a call to action about vital resources
available to break cycles of teen dating and domestic violence at home, school, or in a relationship.
Who: Operation For HOPE Foundation and The Allstate Foundation in partnership with girls’ pop group Elevé to highlight resources available to break cycles of violence and to move survivors forward.
What: Launching of the poster ‘“Voices End Violence!” – Domestic and Teen Dating Violence Prevention and Awareness Public Service Campaign’ is part of a print and social media campaign on supporting the Operation For HOPE Foundation’s mission. The goal of the campaign is to increase awareness about nationwide, confidential and free resources available 24/7 to prevent and respond to sexual assault, teen dating, and domestic violence with an important message about seeking professional help to stop the abuse. The girls’ pop group Elevé is speaking out in support with their voices about this “voiceless” issue that survives on remaining “silent.” The poster identifies nationwide help and hotlines. The campaign is calling your attention to this important issue impacting our teens, families, and communities. We urge the public to repost the “Voices End Violence!” Poster online to break the silence or by displaying the poster at your school, business, nonprofit, or public location. In partnership with the Operation For HOPE Foundation, The Allstate Foundation offers survivors of domestic violence free downloadable materials to help families move from safety to long-term security. https://www.allstatefoundation.org/domestic_violence_impact.html
Why: Intimate Partner Violence resulted in 1,336 deaths in 2010 – accounting for 10% of all homicides. Each year one in four adolescents reports being verbally, physically, emotionally or sexually abused. Domestic violence is a learned behavior whose long-term consequences impact everyone.
Where: UNION Kitchen and Tap, 1108 South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
 
Community Collaboration to Raise Awareness and HOPE Funds
To Assist Domestic Violence Victims in Reaching and Remaining Safe
3rd Annual Ready to Take the Diamond and Strike Out Domestic Violence Coed Softball Game Fundraiser
Who: San Diego City Attorney Jan Goldsmith, Executive Assistant City Attorney Andrew Jones, San Diego City Attorney's Office, City of San Diego, City of Poway Mayor Don Higginson, City of Poway, Major League Baseball Hall of Fame Norm Sherry, Major League Baseball World Champion and renowned hitting coach "The Hit Doctor" Merv Rettenmund, Major League Baseball Cy Young Winner and former San Diego Padre All-Star Pitcher Randy Jones, Major League Baseball World Champion and current San Diego Padres first base coach Dave Roberts, Major League Baseball former first baseman and Fox Sports San Diego baseball correspondent Mark Sweeney, The Allstate Foundation, The Sunwest Bank Foundation, The Rooke Family/Withington Foundation, Sun Diego Charter Co., SKLZ, Maderas Golf Club, Eleve, Team Sports of North County, transcenDANCE, Presensoft, Hubert's Lemonade, DJ Underground, Patch, Black Ops Human Performance, R C Recordings, Kids Gear for Baseball, UNION Kitchen & Tap, San Diego Deputy City Attorney's Association, vitaminwater and the board of the Operation for HOPE Foundation.
What: Nine innings of Charity Softball Game featuring Team San Diego and Team Poway. Entertainment by Elevè (El La Vay). San Diego Mayor Filner has confirmed to join us and throw the honorary first pitch and San Diego Police Chief Lansdowne will be stopping by to show his support. Special appearances and participation by Miss Poway, Pilar Altman and Miss Teen Poway, Natalie Smith and members of their courts. Kids Gear For Baseball Collection Drive will be held on the day of the event. For all charity events details, CLICK HERE.
Why: The fundraiser is being held to benefit the program of the Operation for HOPE Foundation -- HOPE Fund --providing micro-emergency loans that remove economic barriers for domestic violence victims and their children. The Fund supports partners at the San Diego Family Justice Center, Center for Community Solutions, YWCA Becky's House, North County Family Violence Prevention Center and other agencies who serve victims of family violence.
"The City Attorney's Office is pleased to participate in the 3rd Annual charity softball game to strike out domestic violence and raise funds for the HOPE Fund. Victims of domestic violence and their children need to know that there is help and hope available. We care and our community cares, it is a team effort." said San Diego City Attorney Jan Goldsmith. "Operation For HOPE Foundation, and its annual fundraiser to Strike Out Domestic Violence, is a very worthwhile cause. I'm looking forward to participating again this year, and I hope to see a lot of support from our community," said City of Poway Mayor Don Higginson. The Allstate Foundation is committed to building strong and vital communities where people want to live, work and raise their families," says Freddy Santos, with The Allstate Foundation in California. "A demonstration of this commitment is assisting victims with the economic empowerment necessary to break the vicious cycle of domestic violence. We're grateful to Operation HOPE Foundation for its efforts in this pursuit." Throughout the year and throughout our San Diego communities, more awareness is needed about how to seek assistance to escape domestic violence that is happening in relationships, our schools and within families. In the year 2011, San Diego County lost 24 victims to intimate partner violence. San Diego is not alone, domestic violence remains a devastating public health crisis that demands our attention and the community participation to end this horrific violence. Operation for HOPE Foundation's mission is to raise awareness about domestic violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue. www.operationforhope.org
Where: Game location is at the Field of Dreams, 18880 Old Coach Way in the Heritage Estates in Poway, a private backyard baseball field. Fan Parking is at: 16925 Old Coach Road, Poway CA 92064. Fan Tickets, just $20, are still available online. Admission includes food, drinks and a day of healthy competition for a good cause!
San Diego teens represent and model healthy behaviors, choices and activities
while creating awareness in the prevention of relationship violence!
Who: Operation for HOPE Foundation, RaceLegal, The Young Apache, The Girls Against Abuse, SAY San Diego Crawford Community Connection Youth 4 Change and the transcenDANCE Youth Arts Project.
What: Racing 4 HOPE is a program of the Operation for HOPE Foundation(www.operationforhope.org) in support of RaceLegal. RaceLegal provides a safer and sanctioned racetrack at Qualcomm Stadium to remove illegal racing from the streets of San Diego (www.racelegal.com).
Pre-selected teenagers will make a strong statement by joining together in wearing black T-shirts that read: “I WILL NOT BE INVISIBLE." Efforts are to raise awareness about relationship violence and to provide information on how to access resources in preventing and responding to this issue. Racing 4 HOPE group will enjoy music, food offerings, car racing, performing on stage with The Young Apache with specially prepared performances and in awarding trophies to race winners. The San Diego community is encouraged to attend RaceLegal to learn more about this program and family-fun activity.
Why: Racing 4 HOPE is engaging teens to work together in modeling healthy relationships and behaviors while helping raise awareness of relationship violence. Teens will give attendees awareness cards that provide a clear message--“Stop Domestic Violence, End the Cycle”--and list local, state and national domestic violence resources. “RaceLegal and Racing 4 HOPE programs empower youth with a focus on keeping our streets and communities safe. I encourage San Diego citizens to learn more about these programs and how you can collaborate to help create change and save lives. Learning teamwork, making healthy choices and taking responsibility for one's own actions are lessons that will last a lifetime,” said San Diego Police Chief William Lansdowne. The Operation for HOPE Foundation is dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue.
Kids and Teens Speak Out to Raise Awareness of National Dating Abuse Helpline!
National public service announcement to help break the cycle of domestic violence at home, school or in a relationship
Who: Operation for HOPE Foundation and National Dating Abuse Helpline. Operation for HOPE Foundation's mission is to raise awareness about domestic violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue. www.operationforhope.org. National Dating Abuse Helpline is a 24-hour resource that can be accessed by phone or internet. It is designed specifically for teens and young adults. The Helpline and www.loveisrespect.org offer real-time one-on-one support from trained Peer Advocates.
What: Launching of the „“I will not be invisible” – National Dating Abuse Helpline PSA‟ is part of a social media campaign targeting individuals between the ages of 13-24. The goal of the campaign is to increase awareness of confidential resources that are available to help individuals prevent and respond to abuse. The internet allows individuals to be face-less in seeking help for what has historically been a “silent issue.” Online resources allow individuals to gain much needed information to prevent, respond, recover and stop the cycle of violence. Operation for HOPE Foundation is inviting the public to join us in breaking the silence surrounding domestic violence by re-posting the „“I will not be invisible” – National Dating Abuse Helpline PSA.‟
Why: April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. 1 in 4 adolescent‟s reports being verbally, physically, emotionally or sexually abused each year. Research tells us that child abuse occurs in 30-50% of households where domestic violence is present. Children who are the direct targets of abuse or witness acts of domestic violence can be affected in much the same way. Domestic violence is a learned behavior and its long-term consequences impact everyone.
Where: Operation for HOPE Foundation and National Dating Abuse Helpline Websites, YouTube Channels, Facebook and Twitter Accounts.
Breakfast of HOPE to Raise Awareness and Help Domestic Violence Victims
Reach and Remain Safe
Raising awareness in the prevention of domestic violence and about the Foundation’s HOPE Fund Program
WHAT AND WHEN: The Operation for HOPE will be holding its first Breakfast of HOPE. The San Diego-based Foundation is reaching out to friends and inviting them to learn more about the prevention of domestic violence and how to provide HOPE to victims of domestic violence. Guests will learn how we can join together to become more aware of the signs of domestic violence and in preventing violence before it starts. The Foundation will share how the HOPE Fund is changing and saving lives for victims of domestic violence by assisting them with escaping and then staying safely away from their abuser.
WHY: The breakfast is being held to gain support for a program of the Operation for HOPE Foundation--the HOPE Fund--which provides micro-emergency loans that remove economic barriers for domestic violence victims and their children. Victims often stay in abusive relationships because they don't have the resources to leave and start a new life. The HOPE Fund provides small interest-free loans to cover needed items such as rent, utilities and childcare so that finding safety or remaining safe is possible. Operation for HOPE Foundation is a 501(C) 3 public benefit charity whose mission is to raise awareness in the prevention of domestic violence and to provide information about accessing resources to respond to and prevent this issue. To learn how you can support efforts or get involved, visit www.operationforhope.org.
Only about half of domestic violence incidents are reported to police. It's the leading cause of injury to women in the United States. Tellingly, 85% of domestic violence victims are women, and one in every four women will experience domestic violence sometime in her lifetime. Calls made to alert police of domestic violence are often placed by a child in the home. One of every three abused children becomes an adult abuser or victim. Nearly three-quarters of Americans personally know someone who is or has been a victim of domestic violence. The Foundation asks everyone to play a role in ending domestic violence by being aware, listening and believing when a friend/family member/co-worker or stranger shares that someone is hurting, threatening or intimidating them at work or in the home. Learn how to find help and resources for victims. Encourage them to create a safety plan. Don’t feed the silence. Instead, break it by speaking out against the violence.
WHERE: Venue is being hosted by the Scripps Research Institute Conference Center in La Jolla
VICTIM SERVICES COORDINATOR ANGELA IBARRA RECEIVES ANDREA O’DONNELL AWARD FROM SD DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COUNCIL
 San Diego, CA: Angela Ibarra, Victim Services Coordinator at the City Attorney’s Office Domestic Violence Unit received the Andrea O’Donnell Award from the San Diego Domestic Violence Council. Angela was nominated and voted by the San Diego community to receive the award.
The award was presented to Angela on October 9th at the Not to Be Forgotten Rally, HOPE in the Park event to honor domestic violence awareness month and to remember those that have died as a result of domestic violence. The Andrea O’Donnell Award is given each year to an outstanding champion for victims of domestic violence in the San Diego community to honor the kindness, warmth, glowing energy and dedication to activism.
“We are extremely proud of Angela and her professionalism and empathy in working with victims of domestic violence,” said City Attorney Jan Goldsmith. “Our Victim Services Coordinators are crucial to the prosecution process and are most often the first contact with the domestic violence victim to support and provide information throughout the process.”
Victim Services Coordinators assist victims with safety planning, connecting them to services that can help with shelter placement, counseling, obtaining a restraining order and other resources. They explain the progress of the case, what to expect at trial and often accompany victims to the hearings.
The Domestic Violence Unit, led by Chief Deputy City Attorney Kathleen McManus, is responsible for the prosecution of all misdemeanor domestic violence, elder abuse, and child abuse cases occurring with the City of San Diego, 4S Ranch and Poway. The unit’s mission is to maintain victim safety while holding batterers accountable for their actions and providing aggressive, comprehensive and early prosecution of domestic violence cases.
Youth T-Shirt Design Contest to engage community in the prevention and awareness of domestic violence!
HOPE in the Park – Healing, Opportunities, Prevention and Education
Who: Teen Relationship Violence Prevention Committee, San Diego Show Baseball Team, San Diego Community Partners, San Diego County Commission on Children Youth & Families and Operation for HOPE Foundation.
What: Local partnering agencies seeking to raise awareness about domestic violence among youth have come up with a creative way to get the entire community involved. Youth throughout the county are invited to design an image or picture reflecting such concepts as hope, family, respectful and healthy relationships. The designer of the winning image will receive $250.00. To view your invitation to enter Youth t-shirt Contest, click here.
Why: The design will be the image of the Not to Be Forgotten Regional Rallies in observance of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, in October. Youth are leading the way to preventing intimate partner abuse. The contest is sponsored by Operation for HOPE Foundation, whose mission is to raise awareness about relationship violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue www.operationforhope.org.
Where: Visit www.sddvc.org or www.operationforhope.org for Contest Rules & Guidelines
JUDGING OF YOUTH T-SHIRT CONTEST
Boise State University Poster Released to Save Lives and Stop Domestic Violence!
Boise State University, Nampa Family Justice Center, Dignitaries and Community to release Awareness Poster Campaign Center Helping Domestic Violence Victims and their Children
Who: Boise State University President Bob Kustra, Nampa Mayor Tom Dale, executives of the Nampa Family Justice Center, other city and state officials/dignitaries, onsite and offsite community partners, and Operation for HOPE Foundation.
What: Unveiling of the Center's Domestic Violence Awareness Poster Campaign, "Not On My Turf!" The poster highlights Boise State University's Bronco Stadium "THE BLUE" on supporting the Center's mission and campaign. Hundreds of 11" x 17" posters will be distributed and displayed at schools, boys and girls clubs, non-profit organizations, libraries, business storefronts, and at many other locations to create awareness about the access to help and resources available at the Nampa Family Justice Center.
Why: The Nampa Family Justice Center serves intimate partner violence, dating violence, sexual assault and child abuse victims. This comprehensive and centralized support center provides co-located services for victims and their children including advocates, counselors, safety planning, legal aid, medical providers, law enforcement, prosecutors and social service professionals, www.nampafamilyjusticecenter.org. The poster campaign is a partnership and was created by Operation for HOPE Foundation, whose mission is to raise awareness about relationship violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue. www.operationforhope.org.
Where: Nampa Family Justice Center, 1305 Third Street, South
San Diego Chargers' LaDainian Tomlinson teams up with Operation for HOPE Foundation and other community partners to provide needy families with a holiday dinner!
8th Annual Giving Thanks with L.T. & Friends Holiday Program
Chula Vista, Calif. / November 24, 2009—Tomlinson's Touching Lives Foundation and the Operation for HOPE Foundation have teamed up with LaDainian and LaTorsha Tomlinson to help hurting families in the community who deserve and need a Thanksgiving dinner.
On Tuesday, San Diego Chargers LaDainian Tomlinson and his "teammates"— Wal-Mart, Coast Citrus Fresh Produce, Gatorade and many volunteers; Elite Limousine, Union Bank and 92.5 FM—will distribute 2,100 Thanksgiving dinners. Pre-selected families have been given vouchers to pick up their meals. Families will check in between 6:30 and 7 a.m. at the Chula Vista Wal-Mart, 1150 Broadway. Meals will be distributed from 7 to 10 a.m. Each family will receive a 12- to 16-lb. turkey, canned food items, vegetables, box of stuffing and beverages. Immediately following the Day of Thanks with L.T., 21 selected kids will have the opportunity to shop with him for apparel at Wal-Mart.
The Tomlinson Touching Lives Foundation engages in a number of programs designed to promote education, social and cultural awareness as well as positive self-esteem to enhance the lives less of fortunate families. www.ladainiantomlinson.com
The Operation for HOPE Foundation, which creates national awareness about relationship violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue, is dedicated to partnering with organizations and programs focused on restoring hope to communities in need. www.operationforhope.org
Little League World Champions Poster Released to Save Lives and Stop Relationship Violence!
World Champions Luke Ramirez and Kiko Garcia, California Youth Crisis Line, Operation for HOPE Foundation, San Diego Show Baseball Teams, Dignitaries, San Diego Youth, and Volunteers release Statewide Awareness Poster Campaign.
Crisis Line is Helping Youth to be Heard ~
Who: Little League World Champions Luke Ramirez and Kiko Garcia, City of Poway Mayor Don Higginson, Operation for HOPE Foundation, California Coalition for Youth, San Diego Show Baseball Teams, San Diego Youth Services, San Diego Domestic Violence Council, Volunteers and Pre-Selected Youth from Monarch School and Youth Voice.
What: Unveiling of the California Youth Crisis Line Statewide Awareness Poster Campaign, "Are You Safe?" The poster highlights World Series Champions Kiko Garcia and Luke Ramirez on supporting the Crisis Line's mission and campaign. Thousands of 11" x 17" posters will be distributed and displayed at schools, boys and girls clubs, non-profit organizations, libraries, business storefronts, and at many other locations to create awareness about the access to help and referrals by calling the toll-free confidential helpline. Poster will also be available online to download and print to help with awareness efforts in communities throughout California.
Why: The California Youth Crisis Line is a program of the California Coalition for Youth .The confidential toll-free helpline is available 24 hours a day to assist youth, teens and their families in crisis or in a time of need. Trained staff provides referrals to assist with issues such as family problems, relationship violence, runaway, homelessness, depression, teen pregnancy, substance abuse, suicide and much more. Hurt? We Hear You. www.youthcrisisline.org. The poster campaign is a partnership with the Operation for HOPE Foundation, whose mission is to raise awareness about relationship violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue. www.operationforhope.org
Tony Hawk Poster Released to Save Lives and Stop Family Violence!
San Diego City Attorney, San Diego Family Justice Center, Dignitaries, Operation For HOPE Foundation and Community to Launch Community Awareness Poster Campaign Center Helping Domestic Violence Victims ~ Unveils Awareness Poster to the Community
Who: San Diego City Attorney Jan Goldsmith, San Diego Police Chief William Lansdowne, City and County dignitaries, executives of the San Diego Family Justice Center, Onsite and Offsite SDFJC Community Partners and Operation for HOPE Foundation.
What: Unveiling of the Center's Family Violence Awareness Poster Campaign, "Get On Board." The poster highlights Pro Skateboarder Tony Hawk on supporting the Center's mission and campaign. Thousands of 11" x 17" posters will be distributed and displayed at schools, boys and girls clubs, nonprofit organizations, libraries, business storefronts, and at many other locations to create awareness about the access to help and resources available at the San Diego Family Justice Center.
Why: The San Diego Family Justice Center is a public safety initiative launched by the City of San Diego to assist victims of family violence. Under one roof, agencies have come together to provide consolidated and coordinated legal, social, and health services to women, men, children, and families in need. Victims can now come to one location to talk to an advocate, get a restraining order, plan for their safety, talk to a police officer, meet with a prosecutor, receive information on shelter, and get help with transportation. The poster campaign was developed by the Operation For HOPE Foundation, whose mission is to raise awareness about family violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue. www.operationforhope.org.
Coach Pat Summitt Poster Released to Save Lives and Stop Family Violence!
Coach Pat Summitt, Knoxville Family Justice Center, University of Tennessee, Dignitaries and Community to Launch Awareness Poster Campaign Center Helping Domestic Violence Victims ~ Unveils Awareness Poster to the Community
Who: Coach Pat Summitt, City and County dignitaries, executives of the Knoxville Family Justice Center, Knoxville Police Chief Sterling Owen, University of Tennessee staff and Operation for HOPE Foundation.
What: Unveiling of the Center's Family Violence Awareness Poster Campaign, "Ending Family Violence = VICTORY." The poster highlights University of Tennessee Head Coach of Women's Basketball Coach Pat Summitt on supporting the Center's mission and campaign. Thousands of 11" x 17" posters will be distributed and displayed at schools, boys and girls clubs, nonprofit organizations, libraries, business storefronts, and at many other locations to create awareness about the access to help and resources available at the Knoxville Family Justice Center. One Call to Make, One Place to Go.
Why: The Knoxville Family Justice Center serves domestic violence and sexual assault victims. This comprehensive support center provides co-located services for victims and their children including prosecutors, detectives, clergy and social service professionals. Family Justice Centers are being replicated across America and around the world. www.familyjusticecenter.org. The poster campaign is a partnership with the Operation for HOPE Foundation, whose mission is to raise awareness about family violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue. www.operationforhope.org
Where: Knoxville Family Justice Center
KNOXVILLE AWARENESS POSTER WITH UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE HEAD COACH OF WOMEN'S BASKETBALL PAT SUMMITT DISTRIBUTED BY VOLUNTEERS TO HELP SAVE LIVES IN KNOXVILLE!
Coach Pat Summitt and the entire Family Justice Center team are calling on you to get involved and to help raise awareness about the help and hope available at Knoxville Family Justice Center. Volunteers and interested members of the public are welcome and invited to attend the poster unveiling. We welcome the public to learn more about the Knoxville Family Justice Center's on-site and off-site partnerships and to help distribute posters throughout the community.
"Standing Strong Together" Blue Ribbon Community Building and Leadership Training
Opportunity will change the lives of 5,000 students and teachers from Southwest High School and neighboring schools.
Training will extend to honoring and creating positive social change to 40,000 individuals throughout the San Diego region.
Southwest High School, San Diego, February 3, 2009—Community partners are joining together to support the vision of Difference Makers International and the principals at Southwest High School. On Saturday, February 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Operation for HOPE Foundation, San Diego Family Justice Center, Turning the Hearts Center, Caring Helpers Leadership Training, Gibson Communications Group, Modest Media and Body Feng Shui will partner to Give Kids a Voice for Positive Social Change. Four hundred pre-selected students will receive leadership training that they'll share with 5,000 peers—ultimately reaching out to benefit a community of some 40,000 individuals.
Difference Makers International is as nonprofit educational organization. The Blue Ribbon One Minute Acknowledgement Ceremony has directly impacted more than 30 million people from around the world. Among other benefits, the Ceremony has helped to reduce the incidence of teen suicide, eradicate bullying, build positive relationships, inspire productivity, and encourage clear expressions of appreciation, respect and love for others.
As a part of the leadership training, the 400 students will make a strong stand against family violence in their community by posting a San Diego Family Justice Center Awareness Poster—depicting Pro Skateboarder Tony Hawk as a nonviolence role model—in a classroom. The students will in turn help raise awareness about the help and hope available at Family Justice Centers in the San Diego region.
The San Diego Family Justice Center serves victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. This comprehensive support center provides co-located services for victims and their children, which include prosecutors, detectives, clergy and social-service professionals. The poster campaign was developed in partnership with the Operation for HOPE Foundation, whose mission is to raise awareness about family violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue. Voices End Violence, Give the Gift of HOPE.
Tony Hawk Poster Released to Save Lives and Stop the Violence!
Grand Opening of the East County Family Justice Center & Unveiling of Awareness Poster Campaign
Who: San Diego County Supervisor Dianne Jacob, San Diego District Attorney Bonnie M. Dumanis, San Diego County Sherriff Bill Kolender, other officials/dignitaries from the East County Family Justice Center, Blue Shield Against Violence, California Endowment, Alliance Healthcare Foundation, Parker Foundation, the Center for Community Solutions, Operation For HOPE Foundation, and the La Mesa Soroptimist Club.
What: Unveiling of the Center's Domestic Violence Awareness Poster Campaign, "Get on Board." The poster highlights Pro Skateboarders Tony Hawk supporting the Center's mission and campaign. Hawk is committed to calling attention to the issues of domestic violence and believes he can use his influence to make a difference in the community. Thousands of 11" x 17" posters will be distributed and displayed at schools, boys and girls clubs, nonprofit organizations, libraries, business storefronts, and at many other locations to create awareness about the help and resources available at the East County Family Justice Center.
Background: After an 18-month planning process led by the San Diego County District Attorney's Office, the East County Family Justice Center is holding its grand opening to provide the first "one stop shop" service center for victims of domestic violence in the East County. More than 40 agencies participated in the comprehensive planning. The ECFJC will serve victims of domestic violence and sexual assault by providing law enforcement, civil legal services, advocacy and safety planning services, and a variety of other services in a single location. It is the third center of its kind to open in San Diego County. The first opened in downtown San Diego in 2002; the second opened in 2004 in the North County. The San Diego FJC model is now being replicated across the United States and around the world (www.familyjusticecenter.org). The poster awareness and prevention campaign was developed by the Operation For HOPE Foundation, whose mission is to raise awareness about family violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue. (www.operationforhope.org).
Where: East County Family Justice Center, 131 Avocado Avenue in El Cajon
San Diego Chargers Linebacker Matt Wilhelm Teams Up with Youth and Monarch School for a Night Out on the Town!
San Diego, CA —On Monday, November 24, nine children from Monarch School and one child from Children's Hospital Oncology will join San Diego Chargers linebacker Matt Wilhelm for an evening out on the town. The night will include dinner at one of downtown San Diego's best seafood restaurants, Oceanaire. In preparation, the kids will learn helpful hints on table manners. This once in a lifetime dining experience will be a memory to cherish for years to come. The night will be filled with delicious food and one-on-one conversation with Matt Wilhelm.
Matt believes by reaching out to youth in San Diego he can make a difference. This holiday season and throughout the year, Matt frequents public schools and speaks to the youth about good eating habits and the high rate of childhood obesity. Matt is a role model on and off the football field. This holiday season Matt and many community partners are teaming up with teammate LaDainian Tomlinson for the 7th Annual Giving Thanks With L.T. & Friends Holiday Program, giving 2100 Thanksgiving dinners to families in need.
Founded in 1988, Monarch School—along with its committed team of teachers, administrators, and volunteers—is dedicated to providing homeless and at-risk children with an accredited education while caring for their basic needs such as healthcare, food, clothing and personal hygiene. Today, more than 100 kids between the ages of 7 and 18 are enrolled at Monarch School. (www.monarchschools.org)
The Hematology/Oncology Care Center at Rady Children's Hospital is the largest pediatric cancer care facility in San Diego and Imperial Counties. A team of highly skilled professionals ensures that families receive the resources they need to cope when a child is diagnosed with cancer. (www.chsd.org)
The mission of the Operation for HOPE Foundation is to raise awareness about family violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue (www.operationforhope.org)
David West Poster Released to Save Lives and Stop the Violence!
New Orleans Family Justice Center, New Orleans Hornets, Dignitaries to release NBA's New Orleans Hornets' All-Star David West Poster...
Center Helping Domestic Violence Victims ~ Unveils Awareness Poster
Who: City, State and Federal officials/dignitaries, executives of the New Orleans Family Justice Center, the U.S. Attorney's Office, on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice, Family Justice Center Alliance, Safety Net Project, National Network to End Domestic Violence.
What: Unveiling of the Center's Domestic Violence Awareness Poster Campaign, "Don't Foul Out!" The poster highlights New Orleans' Hornets All-Star David West on supporting the Center's mission and campaign. West is committed to calling attention to the issues of domestic violence and believes he can use his influence to make a difference in the community. Thousands of 11" x 17" posters will be distributed and displayed at schools, boys and girls clubs, non-profit organizations, libraries, business storefronts, and at many other locations to create awareness about the help and resources available at the New Orleans Family Justice Center.
Why: The New Orleans Family Justice Center serves victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. This comprehensive support center provides co-located services for victims and their children including prosecutors, detectives, clergy and social service professionals. Family Justice Centers are being replicated across America and around the world (www.familyjusticecenter.org). The awareness and prevention poster campaign was created by the Operation for HOPE Foundation, whose mission is to raise awareness about family violence and the resources available to prevent and respond to this issue (www.operationforhope.org).
Where: Hilton New Orleans Riverside, Two Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA
Domestic Violence Survivors Graduate from Innovative Program
Women's Leadership Institute gives participants skills to be successful at work and in life
(SAN DIEGO) Women who have escaped the terror of domestic violence have overcome challenges most of us can't imagine. Six women who graduated from the Speak for Success Women's Leadership Institute on Saturday, March 15, 2008 have successfully met even more challenges in a pilot program designed to help them create a successful, positive life for themselves and their children.
Graduation ceremonies for the first Women's Leadership Institute program were underwritten and hosted by Sempra Energy Resources.
The participants in the program were nominated by their program or case manager to be considered for the program. All of them have been clients of or have received services from the YWCA of San Diego County or the Family Justice Center. Several of the graduates are currently residents in shelters and transitional housing provided by the YWCA.
"Women who flee domestic violence situations often have no money and minimal job skills," says Casey Gwinn, chief executive officer of the YWCA of San Diego County. "Our programs give women and their families the support services they need to escape their violent living situation. Now with the Women's Leadership Institute, we can take our support to the next level and insure that these women have the tools they need when they're on their own to take care of themselves and their families by being successful in the workplace, and in life."
The vision behind the Women's Leadership Institute is to give women the tools, support, and confidence to:
• Set and achieve personal and career goals
• Be inspiring role models for their families and women everywhere
• Stand up and speak out as advocates for the prevention of domestic violence and other issues
• Start their own businesses
• Become leaders in their communities, corporations and non-profit organizations
Speak for Success Women's Leadership Institute is proud of its partnerships with the YWCA of San Diego County, Family Justice Center Alliance VOICES, Operation for Hope Foundation, National University, San Diego City Councilman, Jim Madaffer, Dress for Success San Diego, and Sempra Energy Resources.
LaDainian Tomlinson, MVP of the NFL, Teams Up with the YWCA of San Diego County
San Diego, Calif.—Many of us know LaDainian Tomlinson because of his premier accomplishments on the playing field. But do all of us know how he also makes a huge impact in the lives of others? This San Diego Charger's foundation, Touching Lives, is offering 19 homeless children from the YWCA Cortez Hill Family Center the opportunity of a lifetime! The children will experience the unexpected and unimaginable by attending the team's opening home game at Qualcomm Stadium on September 9, against the Chicago Bears.
Tomlinson's 21 Club provides these children with the opportunity to attend the game and meet with LaDainian afterwards. Each child who participates has field side seats, receives a
T-shirt, and is given a coupon for a hot dog and beverage during the game. After the game, the children will board a bus donated by Goldfield Stage and travel to Dave & Buster's for dinner.
The 21 Club is designed to promote positive self-esteem, academic and social achievement, literacy, and genuine goodwill. LaDainian strongly believes that such interaction with a positive role model/athlete instills confidence in children and helps them believe that dreams do come true if you work hard and continue to dream.
LaDainian Tomlinson is widely acknowledged as the NFL's best currently active player. Last season he scored 31 touchdowns and 186 points. Tomlinson won four trophies at the 2007 ESPY Awards, including Male Athlete of the Year!
Operated by the YWCA of San Diego County, Cortez Hill provides a full range of services to homeless families, including temporary housing for up to 120 days. The Center can serve 150 family members. It has been at capacity since opening in 2002.
For more information about the YWCA of San Diego County, visit www.ywcasandiego.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
San Diego Charger Michael Turner (#33) to give 33 children 'an unforgettable lunch hour and strong message about the importance of school'
Turner, Give Back to Impact Foundation and Wal-Mart reach out to needy children in the community
Chula Vista, Calif.—On Friday, Aug. 31, a group of homeless children from the YWCA of San Diego County - Cortez Hill Family Center will board a bus donated by Sun Diego and travel to the Chula Vista Wal-Mart to meet San Diego Charger Michael Turner. There the children will hear Michael's comments about the value and importance of school. Next, kids and chaperones will have lunch. After lunch each child will be given a $100 Wal-Mart gift card. The children will break up into groups and Michael will spend time with each group, helping participants select store items for purchase with their free gift cards! Finally, the YWCA kids will return to school. It will be a day to laugh, a day to enjoy, a day not to be forgotten!
Michael Turner is a running back for the San Diego Chargers, known as "Turner the Burner." Last season, he ran for 502 yards on 80 carries for a strong 6.3-yard average. Turner was born in North Chicago and attended Northern Illinois University. He believes in working hard and dedicating himself to impacting the world on and off the playing field.
Operated by the YWCA of San Diego County, Cortez Hill provides a full range of services to homeless families, including temporary housing for up to 120 days. The Center can serve 150 family members. It has been at capacity since opening in 2002.
LT touches young lives
Monday, Apr 23, 2007
by Casey Pearce, Chargers.com
Posted to the Operation For HOPE Web site with permission from the Chargers
Eleven-year old San Diegan Austin Martinez went to bed Friday night praying for rain, just not too much.
"He had a baseball game scheduled for (Saturday) morning and I told him that he had to go if it wasn't rained out," said Martinez's mother Tia. "He really wanted to go to LT's football camp, so he was hoping for enough rain to cancel his baseball game but leave things nice enough for the camp to go on. Like everyone in San Diego, Austin adores LT. It's a special day for him and all the kids to get to learn from the best."
Martinez got his wish. While showers interrupted LaDainian Tomlinson's annual charity golf outing Friday afternoon, the rain subsided long enough Saturday morning for he and approximately 250 other young athletes to enjoy "Camp LT," the annual skills clinic that the reigning NFL MVP conducts each season. The camp was held at San Diego's Hoover High School and gave those involved an opportunity to learn about both football and life.
"The camp has been a great way to get the kids out, work with them and encourage them," Tomlinson said. "It's not all about football. We make sure to spend time talking about studying hard and making good decisions. It's important that they hear about those things as well. We don't want them to think about football before school."
Campers spent the morning going through nine 15-minute stations, each facilitated by an athlete skilled in that position. At each station, kids were taught what the position is and what players do in that position.
"I hope they learned something about football," Tomlinson said. "We teach them basic fundamentals – how to carry the ball the proper way, how to catch it, how to back-pedal and things like that. We want them to come away with a better understanding of what it takes to be a successful football player."
Volunteer coaches included current Chargers Jacques Cesaire and Shawne Merriman as well as former Bolts Vencie Glenn, Willie Buchanon and Darren Carrington. Members of the Hoover and Crawford High School football staffs and area Pop Warner coaches volunteered as well.
Thanks in large part to numerous sponsors, the camp operates at no cost to the young athletes. The "Touching Lives Foundation" works with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs, Camp Hope, Children's Hospital, San Diego Youth and Community Services, the Jackie Robinson YMCA and the Family Justice Center to identify young people who could best benefit from the camp.
Saturday's camp included three teenagers from Teen Choices who were physically unable to participate in the camp but still got to enjoy the festivities. Three leukemia patients from the Naval Medical Center made their way to the sidelines and had their spirits lifted by LT, Cesaire and Merriman.
"To see the way they smiled when I got to meet them, that was one of the best parts of the day," Tomlinson said. "Those guys are tough. It was great to have them out here."
Tomlinson will also host two camps this summer in Texas. "Camp L.T." will be held in Fort Worth from June 25-27 and in Waco starting June 28-July 1.
"Camp L.T." is one of the many operations of the Tomlinson's Touching Lives Foundation. The organization is also committed to education through the "L.T. School is Cool Scholarship Program." Tomlinson annually donates school supplies to local youth in need of assistance. Through "L.T.'s 21 Club," Tomlinson purchases 30 tickets to each Chargers home game so that a group of local kids can attend the game and meet the All-Pro back. As part of "Giving Thanks With L.T.", Tomlinson distributes 1,400 Thanksgiving Dinners to needy families from San Diego County the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. He also gives away roughly 1,500 toys to patients at San Diego's Children's Hospital and Health Center during the Christmas season.
|
