ANAHEIM HILLS, Calif., Aug. 11, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Canyon Acres Children 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, announced the opening of the Erin J. Lastinger Children's Garden in Memory of A. Gary Anderson at the Canyon Acres Treatment Center, or "The Ranch," in Anaheim Hills, Calif. More than 80 guests attended a champagne ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 8, 2008.
The garden opening marks the culmination of Canyon Acres' 25th Anniversary campaign, which raised more than $4 million. Campaign funds provide support to Canyon Acres' core programs, assist with capital improvements and allow for program growth that makes it possible to serve more children in the years to come.
"Canyon Acres is very honored to add a place of such extraordinary beauty to a facility that is already known for its ability to transport and to heal," said Clete Menke, President of Canyon Acres. "It is a testament to the many supporters who are dedicated to our children and to our continued hard work to provide the best treatment possible to Southern California's most severely abused young people."
The garden will be used for therapy sessions, outdoor recreational therapy, group meetings and meetings with family members. Most of all, the space will stimulate healing for the children of Canyon Acres and provide them with a space that inspires joy and makes them feel safe.
Featuring tall trees, park benches, a bubbling brook, a winding pathway incorporating tiles painted by the Canyon Acres children, and a true sense of peace, the garden is a strong complement to the renowned horses that live on The Ranch and to the atmospheric murals on the building walls. In addition, two trees were named in honor of key supporters: "I Padrini d'Antonello Tree of Life" and FOCAS "Friends of Canyon Acres." Another tree was dedicated to the children and staff of Canyon Acres. A Wall of Thanks recognizes the many other campaign supporters.
Distinguished guests included Canyon Acres 25th Anniversary Campaign Chair Erin Lastinger and Campaign Cabinet Chair Patrick Dirk -- as well as several Canyon Acres board members, including Chairman Harry Winters.
"The Garden is a truly magical place -- and a fitting tribute to the community's power to help heal our children," said Lastinger, who is also CEO of the A. Gary Anderson Family Foundation. "Most of all, the garden reminds us of the endurance of the human spirit and the value of ongoing care."
ABOUT CANYON ACRES
Canyon Acres Children and Family Services has been serving children throughout Orange County since 1980 providing the highest level of care and therapeutic treatment to children 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, contact Bock Communications at + 1-714-540-1030 or canyonacres@bockpr.com or visit the Canyon Acres Children and Family Services web site at www.canyonacres.org.