ANAHEIM HILLS, Calif., April 4, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Canyon Acres and Family Services, a charity organization committed to providing homes, care, treatment and supportive services for abused, neglected and emotionally troubled children and their families, officially unveiled its 25th Anniversary Campaign. The organization also announced that it netted $300,000 at its annual Blue Ribbon Gala, double the net amount raised at last year's Gala. The event took place on April 1st and raised money for immediate and ongoing children's expenses and programs.
Canyon Acres' 25th Anniversary Campaign has set a $5.5M goal to allow the agency to reconcile rising costs with a plateau in governmental support. The campaign will enable the agency to deliver on current and future promises to children in need, including designated funds for The Ranch, Intermediate Treatment Residences, Wraparound Services and Treatment Foster Care. The campaign kicked off with a 100% gift commitment from Canyon Acres' Board of Directors and has already raised $2M.
The Blue Ribbon Gala, themed "Inspiring Hope ... In the Heart of a Child," featured dinner, live and silent auctions, live jazz by the popular Baba Elefante Trio and dancing to the sounds of the band Bounce. The gala was held in Yorba Linda, California, at the Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace's perfect replica of the White House East Room. In addition, Canyon Acres presented the Jim Murray Memorial Service Award to community leaders in three categories: an individual, a corporate/business partner and a civic group who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in supporting Canyon Acres' mission to providing homes, care, treatment and supportive services for abused, neglected and emotionally troubled children and their families. This year's recipients were Carol Hanes, Yard House and the Yorba Linda Chapter of the National Charity League. Jim Murray was a long-time board member and supporter of Canyon Acres.
Ticket sales were very strong and support from local companies was at a record high. Gemini Industries and Troy Group became Gold Sponsors by providing initial donations of $25,000 each. The final guest count was 470 attendees and Canyon Acres netted $300,000.
"Canyon Acres 25th Anniversary Campaign is an important call to action for members of this community who recognize the responsibility to rescue our endangered children," said Clete Menke, executive director of Canyon Acres. "In addition to providing an official kickoff for the campaign, this year's Blue Ribbon Gala was a resounding success. The event showcased the tremendous community support that has sustained Canyon Acres over the years. We exceeded our fundraising goals and had the great opportunity to see our guests simply enjoying the party."
"I am so proud of how the gala turned out," said Erin Lastinger, gala chair and CEO of the A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation. "The gala committee worked extremely hard to make this a special night for everyone involved and I wish to thank the committee and the attendees for their dedication to Canyon Acres' children."
ABOUT CANYON ACRES
Canyon Acres Children and Family Services is the only facility in Orange County or the surrounding counties serving the most severely abused and emotionally troubled children between the ages of 6-17. Since 1980, Canyon Acres has been providing the highest level of care, therapeutic treatment and most importantly a home, to children throughout Southern California who suffer from a variety of emotional and psychological disorders. Canyon Acres gives children nurturing, treatment, and opportunities that they need to grow up in safe, loving, and stable families. For more information about Canyon Acres Children and Family Services or photos from the Blue Ribbon Gala, visit the Canyon Acres Web site at www.canyonacres.org or contact Bock Communications at +1-714-540-1030 or mjack@bockpr.com.