Women and children are not the only victims of domestic abuse. While it may seem unusual, men also find themselves in need of shelter and assistance in establishing a healthy environment for future growth for themselves and their children.

Dealing with this problem on a limited basis, The Family Place team announced today that it will open the first shelter for male victims of domestic violence in January 2016.

In the past The Family Place has provided shelter for men and their children in hotels averaging a cost of $20,000 per month. According to The Family Place, the program had 19 male clients in September and that was double the total of 2014. This increase is “largely due to the successful Dallas Police Department Lethality Assessment Program  and Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings‘ efforts to increase awareness.”

According to The Family Place CEO Paige Flink, “A report being released by Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings tonight shows the incredible demand for shelter space and other services for victims of domestic violence. At The Family Place, we are committed to meeting the need to the best of our ability as long as the financial support from the community is there. We cannot do it without their help.”

While “the majority of the funding for this shelter will come from a new Victims of Crime Act grant, The Family Place must raise additional fund from the community.” Funding for the men’s shelter will be “developed concurrently with The Family Place Legacy Capital Campaign.”

A search is currently underway to find a location that will “best serve this population of victims.”

Claire Emanuelson, John Tesar, Robert Weatherly and Paige Flink (File photo)

UPDATE (7:22 a.m. on November 12, 2015): Just received the following email from ReuNight Co-Chair Robert Weatherly:

“Nice article on the event this evening, but for the record, Nancy and I both used our connections to secure the trips for the auction. I put together the Paris trip.

“Tonight will be fabulous!!!

“Thanks,

“Robert”

So very glad to learn of Robert’s involvement.  Hope this helps straighten things out in the below post.

The folks getting manicures and having their shoes shined for Thursday night’s ReuNight fundraising dinner at Oak for The Family Place better be ready for quite a night.

Co-Chair Nancy Rogers is having her Gro Floral & Event Design team “re-do” the restaurant. Word has it that owner John Tesar may not even recognize the place.

And to add frosting on this cake of a money raiser, Lady Rogers (UPDATE: and her Co-Chair Robert Weatherly has have) put together a trio of live auction items and they all include travel to some of (UPDATE: her their) favorite spots.

Wanna a clue? How about….

• Parisian Bon Voyage — When you think of Paris, what comes to mind? Audrey Hepburn in “Charade” floating down the Seine? Diane Keaton celebrating her birthday at Le Grand Colbert with Keanu Reeves and Jack Nicholson? Tom Hanks trying to find the “Holy Grail”? Why not create your own special memories with a two-night stay at the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel. And because it’s a (UPDATE: Nancy Rogers Robert Weatherly)-curated visit, it will include “a very private tour of the Hermes Family Museum.” And speaking of Hermes, you’ll have a Highland Park Village gift card for $1,500 to get all gussied up for your trip. (Value: $6,500)
• Aspen Weekend — OK, so most locals consider Aspen to be a suburb of Dallas. Don’t you know more have been to Aspen than to Cleburne? But despite the familiarity of the mountain resort, Nancy has put together a package that few have experienced including a three-night stay at the newly remodeled Jerome Hotel and spa treatments for two at the now-Auberge Resort. It just ain’t the same old hotel that it used to be! To update your winter look, Stanley Korshak’s Crawford Brock has arranged for a “Bogner fur-trimmed vest and Saint Bernard is providing a pair of custom-fitted ski boots. If you see “working girl” Melanie Griffith, see if she’ll give you a private tour of her cozy cottage. It’s on the market for a mere $8.9M. (Value: $5,400)
• Los Cabos Getaway — So, the last thing you heard was that the Mexico resort area got slammed by a hurricane. Oh, that’s so old news…so very, very old news. In recovering from the storm damage, the luxury factor only increased tenfold. Cabo is one of Nancy’s very favorite spots to chill and you just know she could have her pick. For the winner of this package, they’ll have four nights at the talk-to-me-about-luxurious One & Only Palmilla resort. But they won’t just stay in their suite…well, unless they want to. Nancy’s arranged for a four-hour yachting experience, four rounds of golf and din-din for two at the Nick-San restaurant. Don’t forget your sunglasses, so you’ll fit in with all the celebs at Palmilla’s new outdoor lounging areas. (Value: $10,000)

According to Community Partners of Dallas (CPD) President/CEO Paige McDaniel:

“Community Partners of Dallas has just kicked off our annual Toy Drive and I wish for the community to help us once again by providing 2 gifts each to more than 5,500 abused and neglected children in the care of Child Protective Services. CPD is accepting donations of toys through Friday, December 11.”

Community Partners of Dallas Toy Drive*

“For thousands of abused and neglected children in Dallas County, the holidays are just another day; one more day that they are reminded that no one cares. By supporting Community Partner of Dallas’ Toy Drive, individuals, organizations and companies can grant specific gift requests to children most in need of holiday joy. For many of the children, this might be the only gift they receive, and for some the first gift they have ever been given. Fulfilling these wishes goes beyond just making sure they have a gift to open on Christmas. Your gift shows our kids that someone cares for them.”

“The Community Partners of Dallas Toy Drive is unique in that the wishes are brought to the agency by CPS caseworkers on behalf of the children in their care, and those same caseworkers will have the wonderful opportunity to deliver these gifts personally. By supporting the Toy Drive, individuals, organizations and companies will be granting specific gift requests to these children, making them feel special and giving them a holiday they will remember.”

Paige McDaniel, Maria Plankinton and Joanna Clarke*

“Wish cards can be filled by companies, churches, scout troops, business offices, or individuals. Organizations and individuals can also organize a new toy drive for the undesignated toy collection used to serve additional children who come into CPS care after the wish list deadline and to fill wishes not selected by donors. This year’s most popular wishes include bikes, African American dolls, items from Disney’s “Frozen,” Easy Bake Ovens, boom boxes, riding toys for toddlers, Buzz Lightyear Action Figures, Barbies, basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, learning toys for toddlers, like a Vtech Learning Laptop, Dora dolls, MP3 players, LEGO sets, Tonka trucks and Bath and Body Works sets.”

“All gifts should be new and not wrapped. Toys must be delivered to the Community Partners of Dallas Toy Drive Warehouse at the Peacock Alley Warehouse located at 2050 Postal Way, Dallas, Texas 75212, no later than 1:00 p.m. on Friday, December 11. For more information on participating in the Toy Drive, contact Corinne Karp, 214.624.7588 or visit www.communitypartnersdallas.org.”

– Paige McDaniel, Community Partners of Dallas president/CEO

* Graphic and photo provided by Community Partners of Dallas

On Saturday, November 7, Collin County’s Hope’s Door had everything from local beauties to a cover-girl camel for An Evening of Hope at the Hilton Dallas/Plano Granite Park Hotel. Here’s a report from the field:

You can always tell you’re in for a treat at a gala when you are met at valet by a camel for a photo op and champagne is served the minute you walk in the door. No, guests didn’t ride Irenie the camel, but posing with her was enough fun. One photo caught her smiling for the camera.

Michelle Rivera and Amanda Ward*

Gala chairs Amanda Ward and Michelle Rivera were dressed to the nines in gold and burgundy with lace and sequins as they celebrated “A Night in Morocco” for An Evening of Hope gala benefiting Hope’s Door, an organization in Collin County specializing in comprehensive intervention and prevention services for all members of a family affected by domestic violence – from victim to abuser.

As Korbel’s Brut Rosé flowed along with cocktails provided by Grey Goose, guests joined in more photo ops by the fabulous taller-than-life peacock covered in fresh flowers by Flora & Eventi Design, bid in the silent auction, wine pull and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres as they paid as much attention to the dynamic fashions.

Flora and Eventi peacock*

Patrons such as D’Andra Simmons Lock and Phyllis Comu– who had just co-chaired the Paws Cause event a couple months ago – joined Gina Ginsburg and After-Party Chair Linda Snorina with Cathy Vieth, Sheri Deterling and Carmen Surgent in the silent auction bidding.

Inside the VIP party, the room was filled with a tent swathed in luscious white and gold draping, tables full of culinary delights, champagne and custom cocktails Casablanca with Grey Goose and Cucumber Delights, a Bombay specialty.

Hope’s Door Chief Development Officer Suzanne Bock Grishman and her husband, Michael Grishman chatted with Fox4 News anchor Heather Hays, who was also emcee, Lloyd Ward and former board members Melissa Randle and Stephanie Funk.

Jeremy Lock and D’Andra Simmons Lock*

Melissa and Tommy Randle*

Brilliantly lit and tented in rich jewel-toned sheathing and tablecloths, the ballroom was charged with an energy from the live performance of the Arya Dance Company dancing traditional Indian dances to drumbeats and native music. Enjoying the scene were Max Trowbridge, Pamela Martin Duarte, Prashe Shah – whose designs were worn by many ladies there – and Aneeta Goomar.

Chris and Mioshi Johnson*

After introductions by Heather, Amanda and Michelle thanked Honorary Chairs Mioshi and Chris Johnson and After Party chairs Linda Snorina and Sara Dawn Wilkins and recognized Mercury One as Auction Sponsor, along with Sapphire Sponsors Republic National Distributing Company, Hollman, Rent-A-Center and Emerald Sponsors Denbury, Emerson Process Management, LegacyTexas, The Medical Center of Plano and Pier 1 Imports and more.

Linda Snorina*

Jim Malatich and Heather Hays*

A very moving black-and-white film was shown, focusing on children’s relationships with parents who are involved in domestic violence and how they learn by example. Jim Malatich, CEO of Hope’s Door, emphasized the importance of education and solutions provided by the organization.

Suzanne talked about the Heroes of Hope Award, which honors an individual, company or organization for outstanding work on behalf of Hope’s Door, Inc., and its clients. This year’s recipients were Tania and Glenn Beck and their foundation, Mercury One, Inc. for their commitment to being a voice for families affected by domestic violence. Accepting the award were Glenn Beck and Beth Knott, Interim Executive Director of Mercury One, Inc.

Glenn was visibly moved by the presentation and shared his personal story of domestic violence while growing up and how he has managed those feelings. He stressed that he and Tania are dedicated to raising awareness about this issue that often goes unaddressed and how grateful they are for Hope’s Door and everything they accomplish.

Mathew Grynwald, chairman of the board, introduced honorary chairs Mioshi and Chris Johnson. Both have had personal experience with domestic violence and are advocates and speakers against domestic violence in churches, community groups and shelters. A Super Bowl XLVII champ when he was with the Baltimore Ravens and now a businessman and mentor, Chris shared the details of his sister’s tragic death due to domestic violence and how it has affected his life. The room was completely quiet as he ended saying, “People need to understand how serious domestic violence is, how it can turn the whole family upside down in seconds.” Many were moved to tears as everyone stood up and gave a stirring standing ovation.

An exciting live auction proved lucrative for the organization as items were sold and Hayley Hamilton Cogill and her husband, Gary Cogill rallied the crowd to bid on their private dinner package. Afterwards, everyone took to the dance floor to the tunes of Memphis Soul.

Gary Cogill, Hayley Hamilton Cogill, Sheri Deterling and Geoff Hawkes*

The After Party experience and lounge brought the crowd outside with a live DJ, drinks and desserts. Even a hookah or two were spotted beneath the tents.

Hope’s Door is an organization in Collin County specializing in comprehensive intervention and prevention services for all members of a family affected by domestic violence – from victim to abuser. Hope’s Door was established in 1986 as a crisis hotline. Clients were housed in local hotels until the opening of a 21-bed emergency shelter in 1989. Since then, services have expanded to include transitional housing, counseling for adults and children, legal advocacy and services for abusers.

Annually, Hope’s Door responds to over 2,800 crisis hotline calls, shelters more than 400 women and children, houses over 50 families in transitional housing and provides counseling and legal advocacy to more than 1,300 survivors.

For more information about Hope’s Door, visit the website at http://www.hopesdoorinc.org or call 972.422.2911 for general information or the 24-Hour Crisis Hotline at 972.422.7233.

* Photo credit: Matthew Shelley

According to Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center’s President & CEO Lynn M. Davis,

Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center*

“The Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) works to improve the lives of abused children in Dallas County and to provide national leadership on child abuse issues. Since opening its doors in 1991, DCAC has served more than 40,000 children (and their non-offending family members) who were sexually abused, severely physically abused, or who had witnessed a violent crime. Our average client is a 9 -10 year-old girl who has been sexually abused by someone she knows and trusts.

“Stories of hope and healing take place every day at DCAC. One example is of Ana, a 10-year-old girl who loved to ride her bike. When she rode she felt free and safe from the trauma she endured every night at home. Sexually abused by her stepfather for over a year, Ana found the courage to tell her mom.

Holiday For Hope*

“After making a report to CPS, Ana was brought to DCAC. This began her journey to healing. Over the course of one year, Ana was provided a legally defensible forensic interview, trauma-informed therapy, supportive case management services, and the tools and knowledge to help keep her safe from future abuse.

“When Ana graduated from therapy earlier this year, DCAC’s Family Advocates gave her a new pink bicycle. She proudly rode her bike out of the Center with a huge smile on her face! Thanks to the generosity of the Dallas community, all of these services were provided to Ana and her mother free of charge.

“Each holiday season, DCAC’s Family Advocates also organize a Holiday of Hope program to help make this holiday season memorable and bright for the families DCAC serves. You can become a part of the journey to healing by visiting www.dcac.org/holidayofhope. On behalf of children like Ana, thank you for your generosity this holiday season.”

-By Lynn M. Davis, Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center president

* Graphics provided by Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center

According to Family Compass Development Chair Whitney Strauss,

Family Compass*

“I am proud to serve on the Board of Directors and as the Development Chair.  The mission of Family Compass is to build healthy families and a strong North Texas community by preventing child abuse and neglect. This is accomplished through two home mentoring programs and community based and educational programs for families that have elevated risk for child abuse and reside in the most economically disadvantaged communities throughout Dallas and Collin County. All of our programs are evidence based, voluntary and free of charge.

“Our wish is simple. Our wish is for all children to have a life free from abuse and neglect and be able to experience the joy of childhood. We wish this for the holiday season – and for all seasons – because every child has the fundamental right to a healthy family and environment, the opportunity to succeed in school and the capacity to experience life without violence.”

-By Whitney Strauss, Family Compass development chair

* Graphic courtesy of Family Compass

According to Dallas CASA Executive Director and President Kathleen LaValle,

Kathleen LaValle*

“For two-year-old Jacob, Christmas didn’t mean warm food, family visits or toys under a sparkling tree. Abandoned in a Dallas drug house by his mother, only 17 and working as a prostitute, Jacob wanted a stable home and a cozy bed for Christmas. The only gift he asked for was love and stability.

“Each year in Dallas, nearly 4,400 children like Jacob are in protective care under court supervision because it simply isn’t safe for them at home. Dallas CASA’s Christmas wish is that the Dallas community would know about children like Jacob and be moved to make a critical difference in their lives. For the Jacobs of Dallas, a CASA volunteer is often the one consistent, caring adult they can count on during a frightening, uncertain time in their lives.

“Of 4,400 children in protective care in 2014, only about half had a CASA volunteer by their side. Dallas CASA wishes for the day when every child in need will have his or her own CASA volunteer.

“Jacob was one of the lucky ones. He was assigned a Dallas CASA volunteer, Lisa, who served as his voice in court, advocating for what Jacob needed.

“Jacob got his Christmas wish three years ago when Lisa found his grandfather

Dallas CASA’s “Abused Children Can’t Wait”*

and recommended to the court that Jacob be allowed to go live with him. Finances were tight, but Jacob’s CASA volunteer made sure he had not only the love and stability he longed for but gifts under the tree. Jacob was thrilled to see the brightly-wrapped packages waiting for him, but it was the tears in Jacob’s grandfather’s eyes that showed the little family’s full gratitude.

“Today, three years later, Jacob has been adopted by his grandfather. Finances remain tight, but Jacob has his stable home, his cozy bed and all the love he could wish for.

“With more volunteers, all children like Jacob could have voices in court and an adult looking out for their best interests. If you or someone you know might be interested in becoming a CASA volunteer advocate, please check out the opportunity on the Dallas CASA website at www.dallascasa.org.”

-By Kathleen LaValle, Dallas CASA executive director and president

* Photos provided by Dallas CASA

According to The Family Place CEO Paige Flink,

Paige Flink*

“What do I wish? I wish women and children were safe from violence at home. I wish there were not so many people in our community who need help to escape family violence, making it hard for us to fill all the requests for shelter.  I wish The Family Place had to close because no one needed our services.

“But in reality, the demand for help often exceeds our ability to help. So, instead, I have to wish that our amazing supporters will continue to be generous and give to The Family Place so we can be there to say ‘Yes, there is a room for you in the shelter tonight.’”

-By Paige Flink, The Family Place CEO

* Photo provided by 
The Family Place

According to Community Partners of Dallas President/CEO Paige McDaniel,

Paige McDaniel (File photo)

“2016 will bring another milestone to Community Partners of Dallas – our Chick Lit Luncheon is turning 10! One of our goals for this year is that everyone will join us for what promises to be our most special luncheon to date!

“Set for Friday, April 1, 2016, we are thrilled that the amazing Kristi Hoyl has graciously agreed to serve as our event chair, and recruited the power duo of Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum as our underwriting chairs! We will have more exciting announcements soon including the reveal of our most famous author yet as the featured speaker. As we celebrate this special anniversary year, attendees can also expect exciting surprises, funny flashbacks and more.

“Sponsorships will be on sale later this month with all proceeds benefiting Dallas County’s abused and neglected children. Visit communitypartnersdallas.org for more information.

“We hope the entire community will join us on April 1!”

Appetite for Advocacy is on a roll. Luncheon Co-Chairs Paula Richmond and Megan Steinbach have the ninth annual fundraiser for Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center hitting all the bases. For the Tuesday, April 26 event at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel, they’ve locked down University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work research professor Brené Brown. In addition to her 2010 TEDx Houston talk — The Power of Vulnerability — ranking as “one of the top five most viewed TED talks in the world,” she’s scored three New York Times #1 bestsellers (“Rising Strong”, “Daring Greatly” and “The Gifts of Imperfection”).

Mercedes-Benz GLC300W*

And then there is the raffle that Paula and Megan have arranged. It ain’t no toaster. It’s a Park Place Motorcars Dallas all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC300W. This nifty mid-size SUV is just perfect for carpool duty, transporting bikes and arriving at a swank, black-tie affair. The raffle tickets are going for $100 per with a limit of 1,500 being sold.

And now for the not-so-good news. Tickets for the luncheon are tight. According to DCAC’s Jana Parker, “With regards to ticket prices, currently, due to the popularity of Brené, we have early release tickets available at $500 each. If space allows, we will open up general admission tickets at $175 closer to the event. Table sales start at $1750; so, a good option is to host a table and find 9 others to join.”

In other words, get your buds together, buy a table and grab a handful of raffle tickets.

* Graphic provided 
by Dallas Children's Advocacy Center

While the majority of Republican presidential candidates were debating on Thursday, January 28, Donald Trump was raising funds for vets. That’s all well and good, but locals were hard at work to support area fundraisers like Hope’s Door that had an intimate chef’s dinner to celebrate the organization’s 30 years of helping people in Collin County overcome domestic violence.

The dinner at Carso Mediterranean Grill was the result of partnering by Chef Anthony Bombaci and Dallas Uncorked’s Hayley Hamilton Cogill with Gary Cogill serving as emcee. The invitation-only supper was a “donation-free zone” and a simple thank-you for the folks who had supported the organization over the three past decades.

But, of course, there was talk about the upcoming events like the Anniversary Luncheon on Friday, May 20, and “An Evening of Hope Gala” on Saturday, November 5. Deets are in the finalization stage. Stay tuned.

Some 200 fans of The Family Place gathered at Hotel ZaZa on Thursday, January 28, to learn that the agency’s Partners Card 2015, presented by Bank of Texas, had raised more than $1.15 million during its annual run held earlier last fall. The result meant that the big shopping fundraiser had surpassed the $1 million mark for the fifth straight year.

“This was our best year ever” for net revenue, said Paige Flink, CEO of The Family Place. Why does she think it happened? “Because the economy was better, and the sellers did their jobs,” Flink said. “They sold more cards than ever. … The sacrifices of the retailers and their associates is what makes Partners Card work.”

Paige Flink and Eric White*

Melissa Boler, Ashlee Weidner and Debbie Munir*

An estimated 750 retailers and restaurants participated in the program, which ran from October 30 through November 8, 2015. During that period, shoppers around North Texas received a 20 percent discount with the purchase of a $70 Partners Card. One hundred percent of the purchase price of each card directly benefited The Family Place, Dallas’ largest family violence agency.

Debbie Munir, who co-chaired the 2015 campaign with Melissa Boler and Ashlee Weidner, said the record results were no accident. “We continued to try to expand the program, and we just kept growing and growing,” Munir said. “For example, we’re starting to get additional retailers involved in Southlake.”

Rhonda Sargent Chambers*

Elizabeth Dacus, Samantha Wortley and Jane Rozelle*

The 2015 co-chairs were joined at the ZaZa by Honorary Chair Rhonda Sargent Chambers and the 2016 Partners Card co-chairs: Elizabeth Dacus, Samantha Wortley and Jane Rozelle. Others in the crowd included Angela Nash, Eric White and Lynn McBee.

Since 1978, The Family Place has counseled more than 225,000 clients, provided life-saving shelter to more than 22,000 women and children, and answered more than 550,000 calls for help. Among other things, funds raised through the Partners Card program help provide emergency shelter, food, clothing, counseling, after-school programs for children, and job skills for adults.

* Photo credit: George Fiala

Nancy Rogers and Jan Langbein (File photo)

At last week’s St. Valentine’s Day Fashion Show and Luncheon, blonde philanthropist Nancy Rogers was seen in a one-on-one conversation with Genesis Women’s Shelter’s platinum Jan Langbein. Were they talking about what they did over the St. Valentine’s weekend? Were they comparing notes about politics? Were they discussing the Academy Awards?

No way. It was much bigger than any of that stuff and was just revealed.

Tyler Perry*

Nancy, who is co-chairing the annual Genesis Annual Luncheon on Friday, May 6, with her legal-eagle buddy Gina Betts, has presented Jan with a major buck-a-roo of an offer. It seems Lady Rogers and her sweetheart husband Richard Rogers will match any and all donations and underwriting up to… now, hold on to your breath… $1M. As if the Rogers do any that isn’t bigger than big!

This luncheon is gonna be a knock-out-of-the-park with Tyler Perry as the speaker and Ron Corning serving as emcee.

It’s gonna be at the Hilton Anatole’s Chantilly Ballroom, but at the rate it’s going they may have guests doubling up at the tables, so get your reservations in now. And remember, big donations and underwriting do have perks.

* Photo provided by Genesis 
Women's Shelter

Before everyone starts packing for spring break, more local fundraising good news just flew in. It comes from The Family Place about the 2016 Texas Trailblazer Award.

The co-chairs for the event that raises funds to “help survivors of domestic violence by providing safe housing, counseling and skills” are that public relations couple Lisa and Marvin Singleton.

Marvin and Lisa Singleton (File photo)

Charlotte Jones Anderson (File photo)

And what smart PR people they are! They’ve arranged for Dallas Cowboys Executive VP/ Chief Brand Officer Charlotte Jones Anderson to receive the Texas Trailblazer Award.

In addition to her day job, Charlotte is also chairman of the NFL Foundation and serves on the Conduct Committee of NFL Owners.

Her professionalism even had longtime sports-pert Brad Sham declared that she should be the next NFL Commissioner.

Until tickets go on sale for the Tuesday, October 4^th luncheon at the Hilton Anatole, sponsorship and underwriting information can be obtained by checking with The Family Place’s Melissa Sherrill.

Ebby Halliday (File photo)

Wednesday, March 9, would have been the late Ebby Halliday’s 105^th birthday. And while she won’t be present to celebrate, her spirit and name will continue to inspire other in helping others. That’s why the revealing of the announcement of the Ebby Award winners by Our Friends Place is so timely.

Event Co-Chairs Shanha Goodwyn and Diane M. Hawkins revealed that the Saturday, April 30^th Auction And Casino Night at the Omni Dallas Hotel will present the Ebby Award to

• Leigh Richter, who is “the Senior Vice President of Investment and Retail Services at Bradford Commercial Real Estate Services in Dallas. She has been a champion for women in commercial real estate and the community for several decades. An active member of CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women), including being a past board President, Leigh is also a board alum of Dallas Women’s Foundation and Our Friends Place. She has worked at the grass roots level behind the scenes as well as in leadership roles for a number of organizations and continues to work diligently in many arenas on behalf of women.”
• National Council of Jewish Women Dallas Chapter, which “strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. In 2015, NCJW Dallas volunteers have been on the cutting edge of developing and delivering social service programs with over 9,000 volunteer hours to those most in need in Dallas. Ground-breaking programs NCJW Dallas has initiated over the years include funding of the first social worker in the Dallas County Jail system; HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters), a school readiness program for parents of preschool children; and Food + Fit = Fun, a bilingual program that helps low-income parents prepare their children for a healthy lifestyle.”

Created in 2005, the award “recognizes individuals who contribute significant achievements for the advancement of girls and women in North Texas.”

To support this effort that was in keeping with Ebby, the honorary co-chairs will be her longtime friend/President of Ebby Halliday Realtors Mary Frances Burleson and Search Real Fast owners/philanthropists Suzan and Peter Fenner.

Making up the host committee are Heather and Alex Bennett, Mary Burns, Audra and Terrence Chavis, Kimberly and Philip Cormier, Elizabeth Dacus, Scott Dennett, Suzane Erlanson, Baranda Fermin, Shanha and Jordan Goodwyn, Susybelle Gosslee, Carla Gourley, Sara and Robert Hallam, Diane and Curtis Hawkins, Sharon Jett, Laura and David Johnson, Barbara and Brad Kolle, Angela Martin and Sean Baxley, Charles M. Martin Sr., Margaret and David Montemayor, Brandy Patrick, Megan Pharis, Erin and Stephen Pope, Sharon and Jim Pope, Elizabeth Post, Micki and Aaron Seager, Leslie Simmons and Rick Johnson and Cindy Tonnessen.

As of this date, major sponsors include

• Diamond Sponsor — Ben E. Keith
• Ruby Sponsor — Search Real Fast/Suzan and Peter Fenner
• Emerald Sponsor — BDO USA LLP
• Jade Sponsors — HollyFrontier and The Fab Four

Our Friends Place “is committed to helping young women break the generational cycles of abuse, neglect, poverty and homelessness.”

While the suited TACA Silver Cup crowd was filling the Hilton Anatole’s Grand Ballroom on Friday, February 19, an interesting project was underway in another part of the hotel involving Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center. No awards were handed out. No music was played. No programs were distributed. But what took place provided a double whammy involving more than 100 PricewaterhouseCoopers newbies and benefited nearly 70 children that the PwC-ers may never know. And, no, nary a calculator was put in use. Here’s a report from the field:

On Friday, February 19, 120 new PricewaterhouseCoopers employees gathered at the Hilton Anatole for their orientation to the culture of PwC. As part of their final team building exercise, the PwC team revealed that they would be building 68 new bikes to donate to the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center.

As they divided into two teams, the new hires quickly began to piece the bikes together, each of them varying in size and color. In addition to the bikes, PwC also donated new helmets, as well as front and rear lights. They also took the extra time to hand write special notes of encouragement that were attached to each bike. All bikes were then quality controlled by Future Wheels staff.

Future Wheels LLC President David Thornton said, “It was an honor to be able to assist PwC and the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center team in delivering bicycles to so many kids in the Dallas area. The new hire bike building program PwC has developed over the past 7 years has changed the lives of thousands of kids. Dallas is fortunate to have DCAC as a safety net for so many.”

DCAC staff were able to share with the new PwC hires the impact that these bikes would have on the lives of some of the most severely abused children in Dallas County. Inspired, the new employees listened as DCAC staff told the story of a client who was afraid to go outside as the offender lived across the street. Through her therapy at DCAC, the little girl mentioned that she was ready to go outside again, and would love to have a bike to ride. Hopeful for her client, the therapist asked DCAC’s Family Assistance team for a bike for her client. The team was able to find a bright pink bike complete with pink streamers and a Frozen-themed helmet. Overwhelmed with excitement and the chance to overcome her fears, the little girl rode her bike right out the front doors of DCAC and into the sunshine.

Leading the orientation, PwC Principal Advisory Karla Stricker Anderson said, “The work being done by the team at Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center is truly inspirational.  Knowing we were building bikes for the kids at DCAC served as a great motivator to our PwC team of 120 new hires. We are excited to be able to share this special gift with these deserving children.”

DCAC would like to extend a special thank you to PwC and all of the new hires for their generosity – the bikes will have a lasting impact on the lives of these children.

After last year’s weather challenge, Attitudes and Attire Executive Director/Founder Lyn Berman must have cut a deal with Mother Nature to have perfect conditions for the 20^th Anniversary of Attitudes and Attire’s Fashion Show and Luncheon on Friday, February 26. The sun was shining; the turnout was stellar; the Eileen Fisher and A&A Boutique fashions hit the catwalk; and the stories received standing O’s.

Attitudes And Attire fashions

Attitudes And Attire fashions

Attitudes And Attire fashions

Attitudes And Attire fashions

While the post is being finalized, check out MySweetCharity Photo Gallery for a look at the people and runway action.

Attitudes and Attire Executive Director/Founder Lyn Berman was almost as sunny as the skies above on Friday, February 26. It was just a year ago, that her annual fundraising luncheon had been put in jeopardy due to frigid temperatures and snow. Sure, there had been some empty places due to the wintry conditions, but still diehards showed up.

Lyn Berman

This year the weather couldn’t have been more picture perfect at the Dallas Market Center. Wish parking had only been more user friendly. Folks drove around and around searching for a parking space. Those who gave up the search found themselves in the conga line to the valet. Other hearty souls put their stilettos to a test for the journey from the far reaches of the parking lot. One gal grumbled that she should have parked at the Anatole, “It would have been closer.”

But once inside the Grand Pavilion, nary a memory of the parking hassles made it past the check-in for the 20^th Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show featuring Eileen Fisher and Attitudes and Attire Boutique runway fashions.

Madelyn Farquhar and Evelyn Earl

Honoring the schedule, things kicked off with Madelyn Farquhar playing a guitar while A&A Boutique Manager Evelyn Earl sang the national anthem that was followed by the invocation. With lunch being served, guests were told about A&A’s Hopeful Smiles and Boots to Heels programs, the raffle and the sponsors like Tom Thumb and Levy restaurants.

Kay Weeks

At 11:56 the fashion show commenced with Kay Weeks on the catwalk strumming a ukulele in memory of the late Ebby Halliday, who was a previous Kim Dawson Award recipient. Another runway highlight was the models waving flags were vets. Still another was Lyn’s granddaughter, Caroline, modeling.

Within 15 minutes, the show was over and Lyn returned to the podium recalled how she and her husband Harold Berman approached Sylvan Landau with their program to help women build self-esteem and enter the workforce. Thanks to Sylvan and the Dallas Market Center, A&A has  5,000 square feet of space to accommodate its needs. For the past 20 years, more than 20,000 women have come through the A&A doors.

Tessa Mosteller

Shannon Johnson

Honorary Co-Chairs Shannon Johnson and Tess Mosteller thanked all who had made the day possible. After recognizing past Kim Dawson Awardees, Kim’s daughter Lisa Dawson presented the award to Ret. Brigadier Gen. Robin Akin, who suggested that next year combat boots should be included in the fashion show.

Robin Akin

On a more serious note, Robin told how her favorite four-letter word is “Hope. It has been an enabler in my life.” She told of her childhood being raised by a mother, who had been “harder than a woodpecker’s lips.” While attending the University of Tennessee, Robin entered the ROTC and found a career in the military. With pride, she added that during her 32 years in service she didn’t lose one soldier.

After asking those who had served in the military or had someone in their family who had to stand, she changed her focus to those who are transitioning from the military to civilian life. According to Robin, vets want to be re-integrated into the community. They need help getting jobs. Only 6% of children born in poverty have the chance to rise.

Following a standing ovation Lynn returned to the podium reporting that Robin had coined the phrase “Boots to Heels.”

Brandy Baxter

Casey

At 12:42 A&A Boots to Heel Director Brandy Baxter introduced two A&A clients — Casey and Trellis.

Nervous and nearly tearing up Casey told of her earlier days living a wild life including drugs with her husband. When she got pregnant, she got off drugs cold turkey. Eventually she left her husband and started working. A&A helped her developed the self-esteem to get her life pulled together and helped her replace her teeth that had fallen victim to her previous lifestyle. She proudly added that she had lost weight and was doing much better. The audience’s response? A standing O.

Trellis

A vet, Trellis said that she had been a victim of sexual trauma during her tenure in the military. Following a marriage that involved violence, where her husband threw her through the drywall of the house. Bundling up her five children, she was homeless and unable to go to her work because her husband was stalking her. After staying in a homeless shelter, she arrived at A&A and thought, “Oh, not another workshop.” But it wasn’t. She discovered she wasn’t the only one going through such a situation. Trellis now had a clear goal for her life. She went back to college and graduated with honor and got her license in nursing.

As for her five kids, Trellis proudly reeled off her boys got full scholarships to Preston Christian Academy and graduated with honors, the oldest son now works on the rapid-response team in Colorado prison system, the second boy worked with Tennessee State Senator Brian Kelsey, her oldest daughter is working at two full-time jobs to support her four-year old son, her 16-year-old daughter has earned a scholarship and her 14-year-old daughter is an honor student as well.

Needless to say, another standing ovation celebrated another A&A client’s rise to independence.

For more photos of the Attitudes and Attire 20th Anniversary Fashion Show and Luncheon, check MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

Joanna Clarke and Paige McDaniel (File photo)

Community Partners of Dallas’ Paige McDaniel and her sidekick Joanna Clarke just sent word that Friday’s 10th Annual Chick Lit Luncheon at the Anatole is within a feather of being sold out. Well, but with tastemeister Tim Gunn as the center attraction, what else would you expect?

So, the scant remaining tickets will be available until 5 p.m. Thursday. Yipes! That’s tomorrow!

Suggestion: get your ticket pronto and even if you have one, upgrade. Why? Because the patron types are gonna have a party Thursday night and you just know you would have a blast.

Less than a month from now the Genesis Annual Luncheon with Tyler Perry as the keynote speaker will be underway at the Hilton Anatole on the Friday before Mother’s Day. But Tyler isn’t the only big name that will be on stage. Co-Chairs Gina Betts and Nancy Rogers just sent word about this year’s awardees of the 2016 Jane Doe Award and the 2016 HeRO Award.

Gina Betts (File photo)

Nancy Rogers (File photo)

The Jane Doe Award “celebrates individuals who display extraordinary commitment to standing alongside those seeking safety, shelter and support.” This year’s recipient is Serita Jakes “for her leadership of the ‘Starting Over Ministry’ and her recognition of the important role of the faith community in ending domestic violence.”

Serita Jakes (File photo)

Roger Staubach (File photo)

The HeRO (He Respects Others) Award “recognizes men who use their voice and influence to take a public stand against domestic violence.” The word “hero” has long been associated with this year’s recipient in the world of sports, business and community involvement — Roger Staubach.

If you have a mom in your life, why not treat her to an early Mother’s Day treat that will be a real memory maker? Individual tickets are now available!