Supporters promote Sept. 30 event to stop child abuse in Michigan
LANSING - State lawmakers and local organizers today reminded people that as the unemployment rate rises so do cases of child abuse. The group met at the state Capitol to promote the Michigan Children’s Trust Fund charity event to help raise $500,000 for child abuse prevention efforts.
“Local programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters have a significant and positive impact on the lives of children,” said Edward J. Hagan, Jr., executive director of the Big Brothers Big Sisters MI Capital Region Program. “The Children’s Trust Fund serves an important role in helping local programs across the state like ours. Our goal is to help children by placing them in safe and rewarding one-to-one relationships that have a direct and lasting impact on their lives. Our work is especially important during these challenging times.”
Jim Paparella, a board member for Lansing-based Child Abuse Prevention Services, emphasized the importance of local councils working in partnership with the Children’s Trust Fund to reduce abuse in Michigan’s communities.
“Our efforts focus on preventing child abuse by providing families with parenting education and support,” Paparella said. “Research shows that every dollar invested in prevention helps avoid ten dollars of more costly interventions down the road.”
Approximately 70 students from Auburn Elementary, who were in Lansing touring the state Capitol, joined a group of bipartisan legislators and sponsors. They participated by singing “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”
On Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009, the Children’s Trust Fund Signature Event will be held at the Lansing Center beginning at 5 p.m. All proceeds benefit the Children’s Trust Fund of Michigan.
“I consider myself fortunate to have been involved with the Signature Event for the past seven years as a sponsor representing DTE Energy and as the chair of the Children’s Trust Fund Board of Directors,” said Nancy Moody. “Child abuse is a troubling reality in Michigan. We must do everything we can to help educate families about how to properly care for their children. Supporting the Children’s Trust Fund through this annual Signature Event is a great way to accomplish that mission.”
The event will include a silent auction and a live auction with feature items, such as a trip to Hawaii, including a visit to the television show “Lost”; a Food Network wine and food festival in Miami; vacations to Mexico, Jamaica, a French chateau, and other beautiful destinations; a Cleveland Cavaliers game in the owner’s suite; various university sporting packages; and a 52” Samsung LCD TV.
Supporters can also donate to CTF through an online auction. Items featured include a Grand Traverse Resort and Spa Golf Getaway, tickets to the Michigan State University vs. Penn State football game, Lansing Symphony packages, and many other great auction items. Bidding ends at midnight on Sept. 28.
“Michigan residents can help make a difference in the lives of children by attending this fun and lively event,” said Michael Foley, executive director of the Children’s Trust Fund. “The Children’s Trust Fund is looking forward to an exciting evening with supporters who are devoted to helping children across Michigan.”
Tickets to the Signature Event are $100 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, bid on online auction items, or follow the event on Facebook or Twitter, visit www.michigan.gov/ctfsignature.
Posted: Tuesday, September 22, 2009
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