ORANGE, Calif., Dec. 8, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canyon Acres Children and Family Services, a Southern California charity organization committed to providing homes, care, treatment and supportive services for abused, neglected and emotionally troubled children and their families, today announced that Harald Herrmann has been elected Chairman of the Board of Directors. Herrmann replaces Harry Winters, who served as Board Chairman for 2 years. Herrmann's term officially begins in January 2010.
"Canyon Acres is very pleased to see Harald take on more leadership on the Board," said Clete Menke, President of Canyon Acres. "Harald is committed to philanthropy and is a strong advocate for children; he has already demonstrated that he can help turn the agency's vision into reality."
Herrmann is currently President and CEO of Yard House Restaurants, a position resulting from a longstanding passion for the restaurant business. Having participated in concept development during Yard House's early days, his work culminated in the wildly successful opening of the flagship Yard House in Long Beach, California. Yard House is now one of the nation's fastest-growing and most financially successful companies.
Herrmann is also credited with instituting Yard House's policy of corporate responsibility, which includes a community outreach program that supports a number of non-profit organizations like Canyon Acres, including the Susan G. Komen Foundation, Athletes and Entertainers for Kids, 9-1-1 for Kids, Share Our Selves, and Kids Konnected. Herrmann also serves as a board chair for the California Restaurant Association (CRA).
In 2005, Herrmann embarked on a personal quest to further help in the fight against cancer, a disease he is all too familiar with and one that claimed his wife, Kathie, and parents-in-law. Herrmann has launched a group of books including Bowregarde's Hospital Handbook, Moxie, and Love Sick, that provide support to children and their families dealing with hospital visits and/or the process of cancer treatment and loss. Herrmann continues to play an active role supporting the mission of these worthwhile organizations.
"It's a true honor to serve as Chairman of the Canyon Acres Board," said Herrmann. "I am completely dedicated to helping children find the hope, love and care that they need. Now, more than ever, more children and families are finding themselves in need of services. I look forward to helping the agency evolve its renowned programs in the years to come to meet this increased need."
Herrmann, a native of South Africa, was raised in Orange County, California where he resides with his wife Courtney and their five children.
ABOUT CANYON ACRES
Canyon Acres Children and Family Services has been serving children throughout Southern California 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.