ORANGE, Calif., Nov. 16, 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 the success of a board event designed to create momentum for the 'Forever Kids Club,' the newly instigated Canyon Acres endowment building program. More than 25 members of Canyon Acres' elite leadership attended the gathering on October 29 at Orange County's renowned Antonello Ristorante. Canyon Acres board member Patrick Dirk and his wife Mary co-hosted.
Forever Kids Club's overarching goal is to ensure Canyon Acres has the future resources to serve children in need. The focus of this particular event was to encourage attendees to make Forever Kids Club known to all who love children. Donors join the Club by making an outright gift to the endowment fund or by including Canyon Acres in their future estate plan.
Through 2010, Canyon Acres will consider anyone who makes a gift to the endowment or includes Canyon Acres in their estate plan a 'Founding Member' of the Forever Kids Club. Within five years, the agency aims to welcome at least 150 new members and to raise nine million dollars worth of future gifts.
"I am truly energized by the spirit of this event and am pleased to see we all recognize the importance of this program for future children and families who will need our help," said Dirk, who is Vice-Chair of the Endowment Committee. "I've seen Canyon Acres make a significant difference for so many children and families and am passionate about the breakthrough work the agency does on a daily basis."
The event also served as an installment ceremony for the Club's first set of Founding members: Patrick and Mary Dirk; Canyon Acres Board President Harry Winters, Chris Browning and Jim Hilbert. Canyon Acres President Clete Menke and Vice President Tim Bauer presented founding members with a special Forever Kids Club lapel pin.
"In the past 10 years, Canyon Acres has grown from serving 50 children per day to more than 250," said Menke. "By 2010 we expect to serve more than 300 per day. Our ability to keep up this growth is made possible by programs like Forever Kids Club, and we are deeply grateful for the generous future gifts from all involved."
Other distinguished guests included board member Harald Herrmann and his wife Courtney, board member Jim Riley and his wife Sofia, and board member Erin Lastinger.
To discuss Forever Kids Club membership or request additional information please contact Tim Bauer at 714.383.9324.
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.