HerShe Group Foundation, Inc.

6th Annual Cinderella Ball featuring Meagan Good

2012-01-23T12:04:00.000-08:00

On January 15th, 2012, seven HerShe Debutantes, Meagan, Precious, Angelica, Ashley, Audriahna, Elizabeth, and Felicia, celebrated their very special night with loved ones and long time supporters at the beautiful Olympic Collection.

The night commenced with an art auctionhosted by Kenadie Cobbin Richardson, HerShe Founder and CEO, and HerShe board member, Juanita Palacios-Sims. The art was created by our very own HerShe girls under the tutelage of the very talented Michael Massenburg.

The auction quickly gave way to an inspirational dance of Michael Jackson’s “Earth Song,” choreographed by HerShe Debutante Program
Manager, Kendal Robinson and performed by our HerShe Girls.

From “Love that Girl,” the Disney Show “Shake it up!” and the DC Comics DVD “Justice League: Doom,” Phil Morris presided over the entire evening as the host for our 6th Annual Cinderella
Ball.

Our HerShe girls’ second expression of artistic elegance was a theatrical presentation written and produced by the wonderful Kenneth Brown and directed by the industrious ladies of Onlave
Signature Productions, Alana, Lauren and Ontwanet. The theatrical presentation
was a tribute to female pioneers and trailblazers who have shaped our world and was
performed by HerShe ladies in waiting, Ebony and Kristine and HerShe debutante,
Ashley.

One of the hottest young female singing groups out there, Lil Miz, who have also opened for Lil Kim, followed the theatrical presentation with a very high energy performance.

A reading of our HerShe girls’ poetry and prose, which was collected and developed for two beautiful years by HerShe writing coach, Annie Stein, was performed by the talented Meagan Good (from the films "Stomp The Yard" "Waist Deep” and "Jumping The Broom") Kendyl Joi, Phyllis Bailey Brooks (From CBS’ Comfort Creatures) and by our Cinderella Ball Production Director, Iona Morris (From TV Show “Moesha”). A Featured singer with Macy Gray, Fantasia’s background singer and the lead singer of the group The Endangered, Miss Maiya Sykes immediately sang the moving song “Beauty from Ashes” after the reading.

The prose and poetry read by our talented celebrity supporters can now be found in our first
published book entitled “Beauty from Ashes: Volume 1.”

Before our beautifully talented Debutantes and escorts were presented by Debutante Program Manager, Kendal Robinson and our Host, Phil Morris, our ladies in waiting were presented by HerShe Program Director, Indiana Garcia and HerShe Graduation Coach, Phaebra Croft.
After being presented to their HerShe family and long time supporters, our HerShe debutantesand escorts moved many Ball attendees to tears through their choreographed dance of CeCe Winans “Always Sisters” and Mary J. Blidge’s “Living Proof.”

After acknowledging and thanking thevolunteers, staff and donors that made the 6th annual Cinderella Ball a reality, the elegant and magical night ended with a celebratory desert
reception!

Special Thanks to the following people for making the 6th Annual Cinderella Ball not only possible, but also a success!

HerShe Caregivers

HerShe Mentors:
Aasia Kinney
Amy Gumbs
Amy Meyers
Candice Swinson
Kari Archie
Kimberly Vandriver
LaQueena Litzey
Lauren Duda
Melena Taylor
Schanda Stroud
Shinina Butler
Staci Smith
Ta’mur Rashul
Tammy Burrell Henderson
Tonya Gorham
Yahvoh Totimeh
Yung Phan
Zenja Dunn
Twinkie Byrd

HerShe Staff:
Kendal Robinson
Nina Bryson
Phaebra Croft
Desma Simon
Indiana Garcia
Darice Goodwin

Escorts:
Shaunkese Hamer
Douglas Sallie
Jae Hughes
Darnell Cates
Isiah Johnson
Drew Phillips
Malik Gillum

Production Director:
Iona Morris

DJ & Sound:
Edward Lair
Alana Smith

Presenters/Performers:
Phil Morris
Maiya Sykes
Meagan Good
Kendyl Joi
Lil Miz

Volunteers:
Phyllis Bailey Brooks
Courtney Wayne Linsey
Elayn Taylor
Patrice Marshall
Maria Rice
Maurissa Sanders
Juanita Palacios-Sims
Jasmine Stovall
Porchia Burnett
Delores Bonner
Patrice Williams
The Ladies of Sigma Gamma Roe

Segment Producers:
Renda Pettis
Kenneth Brown
Ladies of Onlave: Ontwanet, Alana and Lauren
Michael Massenburg

General Support:
Christian Epps
Angstrom lighting
Blair Brooks
Christina Bentley
Yvonne Guillen
Perfect Success Event
Management
Scarlett Flowers Design

Photographer:
Leah Lerner
Erik V. Simpson Photography

Make-Up:
Merc Arcenaux
Denise Ruiz
Belinda Simpson
Jasmine Stovall
Angela Young-Brinn

Wardrobe:
Wendell Carmichael
(Wynningz by Wyndell)
Chuck Brown
Georgine Clayton
Rent‐A‐Tux

DCFS:
Annie Fultz
Stacie Ottley

Maurissa Sanders Mitchem

HerShe Board of Directors:
Duffy Humbert
Kenadie Cobbin Richardson
Annie Stein
Barbara Savage
Cynthia Oredugba
Delaina Thomas
Jalenda Motley
Joyce Guinyard
Juanita Palacios-Sims
Mary Anderson
Pamela Bright-Moon
Roberta Falke
Michelle Barton Brown

Donors:
HerShe Fundraising
Committee
Bob Poe Charitable
Foundation
Jamila Hunter
Simon Strauss Foundation
Benenson Family
Foundation
Capital Group Companies
Charitable Foundation

Table Sponsors:
Annie Stein
Duffy Humbert
Delaina Thomas
Jamila Hunter
Kenadie and Gentry
Richardson
Pamela Bright Moon
Roberta Falke
Yasmin Delahoussaye

Additional Cinderella Sponsor:
Bebe
Westchester Christian Church

Hair:
Spa 313
Keokia Childress
Sharon Mackey

Westchester ChristianChurch:

Sharon Mackey
Barbara Ford
Pastor Crissina

One-on-One HerShe Mentoring

2011-09-16T09:40:00.000-07:00

Thirteen unmatched HerShe girls were paired up with mentors.

On Match Day, the girls and their soon to be mentors were busy with a ton of get-to-know-you games and activities provided by our wonderful Mentor Program Manager, Nina Bryson. During the same time, already matched HerShe girls went over their goals for the upcoming year with their mentors. Maurissa Sanders Mitchem, our HerShe PEP (post-emancipation program) Manager, led this discussion and offered many words of wisdom to the matched girls and mentors.

After lunch, which was generously donated by the wonderful Michelle Barton-Brown, unmatched girls were individually called up and told by Nina Bryson who their new mentors were. The girls responded in a multitude of ways (shrieks of pleasure, smiles, hugs, etc), but all in all everyone was most definitely happy with their match.

HerShe girl, Alisa W. stated “I had fun. I enjoyed myself. I really wanted Kari and I got her!” and HerShe girl, Molly D. stated “I liked it because I got who I really wanted. I screamed when I heard Yung’s name,” when asked what they felt about Mentor Match Day.

Good luck to all of our Mentor/Mentee pairs as they start off a new year together! And always remember that being a good Mentee/Mentor means spending lots of time together!

2011-09-07T17:11:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 27^th, 2011 was a very busy day for HerShe since we not only had our Mentor/Mentee Match Day, but we also had our first annual Back to School Shopping event for the girls.

Our Fundraising committee outdid themselves with this event by securing donated clothes, bags, shoes and school supplies from a number of sources, namely Ed Hardy, GAP and Hollister. The HerShe girls were given HerShe bucks, the amount depended on their merit. Some girls were given up to nineteen HerShe bucks due to their punctuality, being a part of the Cahuenga Library Community Service day, etc, which meant they most certainly went on a shopping spree since all items at our Back to School Shopping event were priced at one dollar.

Before the girls were allowed to shop, members of the Fundraising Committee gave the girls a styling 101 presentation. They emphasized the importance of not allowing one’s clothes be the source for why one feels beautiful because true beauty comes from within.

By the end of the event, over a hundred items were sold and each girl had giant bags of clothes/school supplies to take home.When asked what they felt about our first annual HerShe Back to School Shopping event, the HerShe girls stated:

“I like how they gave us a whole speech and real tips on how they think about fashion before letting us shop. They stressed that beauty comes from within and they made sure we knew this before they let us shop.” (Elizabeth H.)

“It was new. They had different brands, dresses, shorts, skirts and pants. They connected with us by helping us shop and constantly asking us if we needed help.” (Ms. M)

“It was great! I got some uniform pants and the best thing about it was that it was free!” (Dyahnne S.)

“It was great! Everybody went away with something, which is what’s important.” (Meagan W)

“There were so many options. All the girls were excited and it was tons of fun.” (Ebony CW)

Special thanks to the fundraising committee for making this event possible! And Good luck on your first day of school, HerShe girls!

HerShe's Community Service Day - 8/6/11

2011-08-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, August 6, 2011, the HerShe Group had its first community service day of the Zeta program year at the Cahuenga Branch Library in Hollywood.

Every month, individuals from the Los Angeles community gather together at the library and have a mini-cleanup/gardening session. Andrew Carnegie built the library in 1916, making it the oldest library in the state of California.

HerShe girls were fortunate enough to help with the cleanup. Elson Trinidad, a member of the CahuenGardeners, which is the organization responsible for setting up the monthly cleanups, put the girls straight to work immediately after they arrived at the library.

The HerShe girls helped pick up trash, weed, water plants and sweep the front and backside of the library. By the end of the session, the library looked great and we went home rejuvenated with the spirit of giving.

Thank you, CahuenGardeners for inviting us to this mini-cleanup! We look forward to working with you again!

Also, a special thanks to Indiana Garcia for finding this opportunity to give back to Mother Earth!!

Drinking for a Good Cause -- Wine Tasting @ Rideau Vineyard

2011-06-21T03:05:00.000-07:00

The HerShe group hosted a wine tasting fundraising event at the tranquil and beautiful Rideau Vineyard (http://rideauvineyard.com) in Solvang, California.

HerShe supporters had a chance to sit back and enjoy the ride up the coast in a comfortable private bus with DVD players showing classic Soul Train episodes and of course, presentations of events featuring the HerShe girls.

The day started out cool and overcast but by the time we arrived to the Santa Ynez Valley vineyard, it was sunny with a slight breeze. We were greeted by the hospitable Iris Rideau, who graciously advised two of our HerShe girls on how to achieve greatness, mainly by believing in themselves. She also shared the fascinating story of how she started with an old dilapidated farm but with a dream and determination, turned that blank canvas into an award winning winery owned by the first African American in the United States. What a fine realization to a dream.

We were all enjoying the beauty of the rose gardens, the fabulous home Ms. Rideau built and the remodeled barn that she transformed into a wine tasting room that is now a historical landmark.

The wine tasting was fun, the food was delicious and the peaceful tranquility was difficult to leave but as we boarded the bus to depart, our bus driver surprised us with the news that the fun wasn’t over yet. We had time to make one last stop in downtown Solvang to see its shops, Dutch appeal and pick up additional souvenirs besides the wine that accompanied us from the Rideau vineyard. Aaaahhhh the wine.

On the ride home, some of us slept, some read, some chatted and then there were the ones who couldn’t wait to open their sweet Rieslings and it took the game of Taboo to a whole ‘nother level of fun.

HerShe would like to thank all the supporters of this event. The feedback was so positive that the decision was made to make this an annual event. So get ready for next year where drinking will be for a good cause.

by Michele Clark

HerShe Salutes Dr. Frank Ryan

2010-08-18T04:27:00.001-07:00

Dr. Frank Ryan, a loyal supporter of the HerShe Group, died on August 16, 2010 around 4:30 p.m. Dr. Ryan drove his 1995 Jeep Wrangler off a cliff on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California. The Jeep landed on rocks below and he was trapped in the vehicle and had major head injuries.

The HerShe Group, a mentoring and youth development organization for girls in foster care, frequently traveled that same path at Dr. Ryan's invitation to the Bony Pony Ranch. He was a generous friend of HerShe who frequently opened his home and his heart to HerShe girls. We shall always cherish our memories at the Bony Pony Ranch playing games, eating delicious barbecue, feeding the animals, and admiring the view. It was always a great experience that the girls loved. He would also frequently take the girls to sit courtside with him at Laker games. It was always exciting for the girls to watch Kobe and sit among other celebrity spectators. Moreover, Dr. Ryan was always creating ways that he could personally be of value to HerShe and was trying to create a winning fundraiser to benefit the girls.

I appreciate the life and legacy of Dr. Frank Ryan. I was privileged to to cross his path and spend such meaningful time with him over the last five years. We never know when our time is up and I am saddened by his too early departure of this life. I hope he knows how much he is loved by me, by HerShe girls and by all of the lives he has ever touched.

Rest in Peace, Dr. Ryan,

Kenadie Cobbin Richardson, CEO

HerShe Group Foundation, Inc.

(Pictured: Dr. Frank Ryan with Eve and HerShe girls, Rhyan and Tiana)

A HERSHE THANKSGIVING

2010-02-03T10:09:00.000-08:00

On November 14, 2009, the HerShe Group held their annual Thanksgiving Day Celebration and proved to both honor and uphold the intentions of the popular holiday. I attended the event as a HerShe newcomer, arriving with hopes of learning more about the organization but at the same time, not knowing exactly what to anticipate during my visit. I simply did not know what to expect. My lack of expectation, however, proved to be all right because by the end of the day, I felt as though I received more than I could have ever expected. Ever.

I was fortunate enough to witness three holiday ideals while there.First, I witnessed the “giving” as I watched the HerShe mentors and the HerShe girls secretly make thoughtful gifts for each other that would be exchanged at the then upcoming Christmas Celebration. Also, the girls prepared the dinner that would later be shared by the entire HerShe family as the day’s culminating event. Each girl, mentor, and volunteer cheerfully gave their all at their respective tasks.

Secondly, I was privy to the “thanks”. The dinner was not only delicious, but delightful as well. There was a true sense of kinship and an air of love occupying the room. After the food was blessed, each individual stood up and noted what made them feel thankful. It was beautiful to see and hear everyone speak on how they have affected each other’s lives and made each other grateful for living.In all honesty, my spirits were lifted more and more as the day went on.

Each smile, laugh, and friendly exchange was like an instant shot of energy, a boost. I came into the space feeling unsure, slightly anxious and a little down (knowing that I wouldn’t be able to go home for Thanksgiving), but I left feeling extremely grateful and blessed.I truly look forward to more shared moments and memories with HerShe and certainly to the 2010 Thanksgiving Day Celebration, a day of THANKS, GIVING, and FAMILY.

A Special Thanks to Chef Antonia Lafosa, Pastor John David Webster, Sharon Mackey and Lynn Stuart.

~Alison Marcus, Volunteer

HerShe Girl “Bridges” into Adulthood

2009-05-08T14:58:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, the HerShe Group invited over 75 guests to witness the first annual HerShe Bridging Ceremony designed and written by Hattie Winston, Lynn Claire Stuart and Kenadie Cobbin Richardson. This year, three HerShe girls will be transitioning from adolescence into adulthood; however, the ceremony honored one young lady – Erika Jones.

The ceremony began with all of the girls dressed in all-white entering the room. Twinkie Byrd was the regal mistress of ceremonies, director and also the one-on-one mentor of the young lady “bridging” into the adult world. As Twinkie began speaking from the podium, she held back tears as she contemplated the road that was completing and the road that was just beginning for her mentee.

As famed musician, Munyongo Jackson, played a determined drum beat, the younger girls who have yet to reach emancipation age showed their HerShe sister love by placing symbolic artifacts in a decorative box. In this box, Erika received silver ribbons that represented each person in the HerShe community, a glass slipper symbolizing her ability to take her place in the world, an ankh symbolizing her faith and femininity, and a butterfly representing her transformation from a girl to a woman.

After all of the girls presented the HerShe prayer, pledge and song, Erika Jones was “sworn in” to adulthood by HerShe Group founder, Kenadie Cobbin Richardson. Erika promised to leave childish things behind and embrace all that it means to be a young adult woman.

Finally, the time came when she would physically bridge into society. With the HerShe community behind her and the community at-large in front of her, charismatic Rev. John Cager spoke words of wisdom and encouragement on behalf of the world she was now entering. He reminded her that her HerShe family would always be there and it would be up to her to include and involve her HerShe family with her new life as an adult. It was truly an amazing moment.

Kenadie would like to send a special THANK YOU to LYNN CLAIRE STUART who was the catalyst for this ceremony taking place. She worked tirelessly in her effort to create, perfect and format the ceremony especially for HerShe girls. She deserves all of the love and adoration from all 75 guests and especially HerShe Group’s founder, Kenadie Cobbin Richardson.

Nia Long Adopts HerShe as her Favorite Charity

2009-02-24T14:59:00.000-08:00

Award-winning actress, Nia Long, adopted the HerShe Group as her all-time favorite charity. When asked why Long chose to passionately support the HerShe Group, Nia explains, “I had been contemplating several charities that I was considering to get involved with for about two years. But as I continued to get to know Kenadie, the HerShe girls, and the life-changing work that was being done, I realized that this is where I was meant to be. HerShe gives young women the guidance, skills, and love to move beyond unfortunate circumstances and create greatness for the future. I have dedicated my time, talent and resources to these girls and feel blessed to be accepted and appreciated. Together, we grow, laugh, cry and love!”

Nia’s friend, a HerShe volunteer (Daphne Wayans), invited Long to speak to the girls during HerShe’s first Camp Cinderella. This specialized camp for girls in foster care is held annually on Pepperdine University’s Malibu campus. During her talk, Nia spoke candidly about her own childhood struggles, the thrilling details of her rise in Hollywood as one of the industry’s most beautiful and talented leading ladies, and the importance of forgiveness.

Eight months later, the HerShe Group honored her with the nonprofit’s first ever Essence of Being Extraordinary Award. During her acceptance speech, Nia revealed, “I didn’t grow up in foster care, but there is a little HerShe in me, too.” She courageously shared circumstances in her life that she overcame to be successful.

She returned again that summer to HerShe’s Celebrity Barbecue Bash along with friends Sanaa Lathan and Regina Hall. Responding to their easy-going presence, a HerShe teen commented, “It was so cool hanging out with them. They really are just like regular people. I feel like I can talk to them about anything.”

HerShe Group’s founder and executive director, Kenadie Cobbin-Richardson, enjoys working so closely with Nia and is more hopeful about the organization’s future than ever. She shares, “Because of Nia’s involvement, HerShe will be providing transformational programs for girls in foster care well into the future!”

Yahoo! Donates HerShe’s Largest Grant To-Date

2009-02-24T11:38:00.000-08:00

The Yahoo! Employees Foundation (Yahoo!) demonstrated the highest level of confidence in HerShe Group’s innovative and effective programming by donating $32,000 -- the largest grant ever received by the nonprofit to-date.

Yahoo! was at first reluctant to award a grant that is 21% of the organization’s budget. Normal industry practice is 10 to 15%. However, the grants committee was so impressed with the organization’s proven track record of success; they saw their donation as an opportunity to help HerShe leverage larger donations from other companies as a result of their leadership contribution.

Christi Turner, a three-year veteran mentor and Yahoo! employee at the time, encouraged HerShe to apply for the grant. Only Yahoo! employees can submit grants for consideration and must champion the organization throughout the lengthy application process. “I love how HerShe helps to transform the lives of girls in foster care. I will do whatever I can to support the organization’s mission,” said Christi regarding her involvement.

Kenadie Cobbin-Richardson, HerShe Group’s founder and executive director is thankful for Christi’s leadership and initiative. Kenadie noted, “She exemplifies what being a part of the HerShe community is all about!”

The Essence of Being Extraordinary Charity Breakfast

2008-04-25T06:41:00.000-07:00

HerShe Group’s first charity breakfast featured four incredible women who have significantly impacted the lives of our youth. Nia Long (Award-winning Actress), Jessica Harper (Best-selling Author), Venus Manuel (Miss Black United States), and Charisse Nesbitt (Author/Editor) inspired the audience with compelling speeches.

Several HerShe girls whom attended the breakfast felt encouraged by the speakers. Nia Long shared her personal story of hardships experienced and encouraged listeners by explaining how she rose above difficulty. Porchia Burnett, a HerShe Alumni, commented “we were encouraged because we realized that everyone goes through difficult periods in their lives regardless of who they are”.

Overall, the event proved a success as the morning was filled with encouragement and laughter. Through the generous participation of the guests, HerShe was blessed by the money raised. Product sponsors included Avon, Dry Soda, Her Energy Drink, Jive Records, Maybelline, National Foster Care Month, Nikki Michelle Jewelry, Pangea Organics, Red Light PR, Sephora , SmartWater, and Strebor Books. All proceeds benefit the HerShe Group.

21 Year Old Student Sponsors HerShe Fashion Event

2008-04-25T06:39:00.000-07:00

Roni Carter, a senior at The Art Institute, creates an event for the HerShe Group. She designed a day of exposure to the fashion industry while addressing issues related to positive self esteem and image. Roni was introduced to HerShe through Renee Moncito of the Wings of Refuge Family Services Agency. The Behind the Seam event that took place Saturday, March 8, 2008.

The event was successful in exposing HerShe girls to job opportunities in the fashion industry while boosting their self esteem through creative styling workshops. Roni pursued sponsorship, designed the workshops and produced a lunchtime fashion show with HerShe girls as models.
HerShe is proud to work with young talent that strive to make a difference! Great job!

HerShe Girls Attend Star-Studded Premiere

2008-04-25T05:42:00.001-07:00

Thanks to the efforts of HerShe publicist, Lela Thompson, the Weinstein Company sponsored ten tickets for our HerShe girls to attend the premiere of the Superhero Movie on March 27.
Our HerShe girls stood and walked along the red carpet at the star-studded event at Mann’s Theatre. When asked about the event both, Hershe girl, Porchia Burnett and donor/volunteer Bobbie Howell stated “the experience made the girls feel as special as if they were movie stars themselves”. The actors, which included Kevin Hart, Regina Hall and Pamela Anderson, were gracious to the girls as they extended invitations to the premiere after-party and snapped photographs alongside the girls.

The girls, which included Lenique, Latoya, Chantel, JohnDonna, Megan, Destiny, and alumni/staff member Porchia Burnett “were treated as the guests of honor” affirmed Bobbie Howell.

This is an event that will forever be engrained in the girls’ memory as they participated in the premiere alongside the actors, producers, and directors. This will be a memorable experience as some of the girls aspire to follow career paths in the performing arts.

Chantell Dedicates a Poem to Kenadie

2008-04-25T05:02:00.000-07:00

KENADIE

A caramel-colored masterpiece
Molded into perfection of not just words, but in fluency and dedication.
The creator of extraordinary experiences
Transforming the lives of young women
Unseen opportunities knocking, exposing us to greater opportunities.
She is the most loving, caring, humble, truthful, respectful, beautiful, deserving, person I know. Kenadie, words cannot even express how much I love you. You have created the most inspiring masterpiece ever. If there were no HerShe, I would have been deceased or incarcerated, but because of your knowledge, your drive, your passion, you have transformed the lives of every girl who has ever come in contact with you.

Kenadie is more than an entrepreneur; Kenadie is a Mother, our Mother.
She has totally transformed the lives of us by even giving us such an opportunity.
SOI THANK HER.
A caramel masterpiece molded by a Goddess which holds the key to our success.
A driven force of humanity, an unremarkable presence.

How much does Kenadie mean to me? She means more to me than she will ever know. Kenadie, without you, this opportunity, without my HerShe Fam Bam, without this experience, I don't know where I would be. Words cannot even express how much of a woman I have grown into because of you. I will be a HerShe for life because of you, and from the bottom of my heart, I really, really, really, Thank and Love you for this chance, this opportunity,
You are Beautiful, Inspirational,
Captivating the souls of young girls all over.

Barbara Schiller hosts HerShe at Snow Summit

2008-04-25T04:59:00.000-07:00

Through the generous contribution of her home, Barbara & Rob Schiller gave HerShe girls the opportunity to camp at Big Bear Lake for an entire weekend. The beautiful cabin-style mansion provided the girls with a place to fellowship with each other. The girls embarked on a frosty adventure as they hit the slopes of Big Bear Mountain. Many of the girls had never seen or been around snow, much less get out there and attempt to ski. “It was an amazing experience to watch the girls conquer the mountain!” said HerShe executive director, Kenadie Cobbin-Richardson, about the experience.

Skiing is an activity which many children experience through their growing up years. These are the types of activities which HerShe strives to provide girls in the program. These are extraordinary experiences for the girls as they have never participated in such an amazing activity, yet can act as normalizing experiences because now they can say “Yeah, I’ve been skiing”. The ability to make these statements positively affects their self-esteem. The experience was rewarding for everyone involved. Barb Schiller loved having the girls as guests in her home so much that she cried upon the group’s departure. The girls were extremely grateful for the opportunity and pleaded to return the following winter season.

To become a HerShe Home Host, please call (310) 641-4400 for more information.

Cobin Foundation donates $10,000

2008-04-25T04:57:00.001-07:00

The Steven & Susan Cobin Family Foundation award a $10,000 grant to the HerShe Group. The HerShe Group is delighted to receive a grant from this very distinguished and generous family. The mission of the Steven & Susan Cobin Family Foundation is to provide funding that will enable children at risk in the greater Los Angeles area to advance their mental, physical and educational well-being.

After a site visit with his daughter and his two granddaughters (his 11 year granddaughter is a member of the Foundation’s board), Steve Cobin fell in love with the HerShe Group and is now serving on the HerShe Board of Directors.

Charisse Nesbit Donates Royalties to HerShe

2008-04-24T17:03:00.000-07:00

Charisse Nesbit is a writer and film executive currently living in Los Angeles. A native of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, she attended the University of New Mexico where she obtained her undergraduate degree in Journalism. Then she attended Columbia College Chicago where she received her Master of Fine Arts Degree in Fiction Writing.

Charisse first achieved success as a writer when her essay “Child of the Dream,” was chosen out of over 900 entries to appear in the 1999 anthology “Children of the Dream: Our Own Stories of Growing Up Black in America.” Following that success, Charisse self-published her first novella, “Learning to Scream: Joanne’s Revelation,” the following year. While attending Columbia College, Charisse first had the idea to compile her current anthology when prompted to write a series of essays. Though she eventually chose another topic, she never forgot the dream that started that day to finally put a positive face on foster care and foster children. The seed that was planted in that moment has finally bloomed into her current anthology “A Dream Deferred A Joy Achieved: Foster Care Stories of Struggle and Triumph.” Through the powerful stories in this book, Charisse hopes to inspire and empower other foster children to strive for more in their lives and know that the world is wide open for them as long as they believe in themselves, work hard, and always dare to dream.

Ms. Nesbit is donating a portion of her royalties to the HerShe Group! Go to http://www.ajoyachieved.com/ to buy a copy!

Meet HerShe Girl: Rosalyn

2008-04-24T16:25:00.000-07:00

As an organization, HerShe aims to inspire its girls to pursue and demonstrate leadership. HerShe girl, Rosalyn, was selected by her school to lead a speech in the 4th Annual High School Business Plan Competition which was hosted by Project ECHO (Entrepreneurial Concepts Hands-On) and UCLA Anderson, which is UCLA’s School of Business.

Rosalyn and six other classmates from her Leadership Class researched, surveyed, compiled, and presented a business plan for "Saints Store", a school store they are campaigning to implement on campus. Rosalyn truly captured the stage. One of the judges commented on Rosalyn’s performance and stated "she was the best student speaker he has ever experienced and he hopes she hones that skill". This will not be a problem since all HerShe girls are trained in public speaking.

Rosalyn received support from her current mentor, Karolyn Haskins, as she watched from the auditorium seats. Karolyn commented, “I was extremely impressed, as were her classmates and the audience. They were the only group composed of all 9th graders. Although they came up short for the $1,000 first prize, she showed excellent sportsmanship and is looking forward to moving forward with the business plan”.

Dwight Stuart Youth Foundation Awards HerShe $15K

2008-04-24T16:23:00.000-07:00

The Dwight Stuart Youth Foundation (DSYF) is proud to support the HerShe Group with a grant of $15,000. DSYF was endowed by Dwight L. Stuart (1924 - 1998). Mr. Stuart was the grandson of E.A. Stuart, founder of the Carnation Company, and was its president and chief executive officer from 1973 – 1983.
As a philanthropist, Mr. Stuart was honored for his work and generosity on behalf of underserved and disadvantaged children and youth. He served for 10 years as a Board Advisor to the Stuart Foundation, another family foundation based in San Francisco. The Board of Trustees of the Dwight Stuart Youth Foundation is composed of Mr. Stuart’s four sons and his sister.

Sparkletts Water sponsors a HerShe Christmas

2008-04-24T14:58:00.001-07:00

Sparkletts Water, a brand of DS Waters, sponsored Christmas for HerShe girls. It was an amazing day that began bowling with the mentors at Jillian’s at Universal City Walk. Every year, the girls write a top five item wish list for Christmas. As wish-lists go, they are written without any guarantee to receive the items listed. But thanks to Sparkletts, each girl received EVERY item that they wished for!

This very special day was made possible by Amy Gumbs, HerShe mentor and Human Resources Manager for DS Waters, Tami Jones, HR Generalists and Kevin Altieri, VP of Customer Service. The girls received IPods, cell phones, designer purses, clothes, designer shoes, jewelry, art sets, video games, books, bath and body items, baseball caps, gift cards, music and much much more. Amy was so pleased with the her company’s eager participation in this community project. “We are happy to play such an integral part in the HerShe Group’s program; whatever we can do to help the girls, we will gladly do,” says Amy.

DS Waters is the premier U.S. home and office water delivery company, offering pure and refreshing bottled water. Their family of regional water brands includes Alhambra®, Belmont Springs®, Crystal Springs®, Hinckley Springs®, Kentwood Springs®, Nursery® Water, Sierra Springs®, and Sparkletts® - each with a reputation for quality.

HerShe Girls Feed the Homeless

2008-04-24T14:34:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the program year, HerShe mentors decided to formally organize themselves into a Mentor Auxiliary Board and form committees. One committee that has really made a difference in the lives of others is the Community Service Committee. For both Thanksgiving and Christmas, HerShe girls spent these two holidays feeding the homeless at the Union Rescue Mission and the Salvation Army. This effort was led by mentor, Marlene Bonner. Marlene thought that the girls needed to know that they had something to give and that no matter how bad their situation is — there is always someone who needs their help.

For many of us hardworking Americans, 68% of us are only one paycheck from being homeless ourselves. Homeless people aren’t a random subset of the American population, but they are people like us who are suffering from an unfortunate circumstance.

Moreover, homelessness affects 70% of all foster youth emancipated from foster care. Half of LA’s homeless are foster youth. We hope that HerShe girls will never be on the receiving in of our service to the homeless.

Teen Grantmakers choose HerShe

2008-04-24T14:28:00.000-07:00

Since 1989, when Mary Caswell founded the Marlborough School, the institution has dedicated itself to preparing young women for leadership and contribution. With this as her mission, the Marlborough school should be proud of the group of teenagers who recently founded the Marlborough Student Charitable Fund (MSCF).

The Marlborough Student Charitable Fund (MSCF) is a student initiated philanthropic organization, established and run by students from the prestigious Marlborough School. The Fund, under the Women’s Foundation of California, strives to provide leadership opportunities for its members while serving the needs of underprivileged children in Los Angeles by furthering their education in a variety of ways.

The Marlborough Student Charitable Fund awarded HerShe a generous grant of $5,000. HerShe will put this money to good use as it will help fund HerShe’s Camp Cinderella. Thanks to generous contributions such as the one made by the MSCF, HerShe has the opportunity to provide girls in foster care whom are facing emancipation a better chance at transitioning successfully

Pasadena Playhouse invites HerShe to Ray Charles Live

2008-04-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

HerShe volunteer and celebrity actress, Iona Morris, invited HerShe girls and mentors to see “Ray Charles Live” at the Pasadena Playhouse. This play is a world-premiere featuring a spectacular ensemble of Broadway talent. Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks charts the deepest part of THE MAN in a moving and triumphant story laced with his greatest hits, including “Georgia on My Mind,” “Hit the Road, Jack,” and “I Got a Woman.” The play got rave reviews from the girls. They thoroughly enjoyed the evening and in the words of one young theatergoer, “that play was tight!” Many thanks to Iona Morris, Sheldon Epps, Alexis Chamow and all the mentors who transported the girls to the event.

TBS Star Claud Mann cooks with HerShe

2008-04-24T14:11:00.000-07:00

HerShe mentor & volunteer, Debra MacCulloch, offered her friend’s gorgeous mansion in Ojai, California for HerShe to host its Fall Performing Arts Camp. She also asked TV star chef and friend, Claud Mann of “Dinner & a Movie” (TBS) to provide a cooking experience for the girls.

Claud taught the girls how to prepare, cook and present food that looks beautiful and tastes delicious. The girls beamed with excitement as they cut, diced, tasted, smelled, and experimented with herbs, spices, meats, vegetables and cooking techniques.

During the mini-camp, the girls also participated in an intense performing arts curriculum taught by world-renown artist, Karen Clark-Green who flew in from Youngstown, Ohio to lead the sessions. She also recruited well-known dancer, Sam Peete, to give the girls a class in hip-hop. Mr. Norwood, father of the singer, Brandy, also came by to support the girls and their own artistry.

Through an intense summer camp held at Pepperdine University and four (4) mini-camps throughout the year held at different mansions and estates, the girls use these opportunities to come together and experience what it is to be in a sisterhood — while maturing into the women that God has called them to be.

HerShe Girls Spend a Day at Bony Pony Ranch with EVE

2007-10-24T17:00:00.001-07:00

Dr. Frank Ryan, for the past 15 years, has been the favorite plastic surgeon of the stars. He is the first choice for movie stars, rock stars, models, Playboy Playmates and politicians. But his celebrity practice is only half the story. In 1993, Dr. Ryan started the Bony Pony Ranch Foundation to support the dissolution of gangs by removing gang-related tattoos for free. Since that time, he has removed thousands of tattoos. Now the foundation also supports activities for youth groups, like the HerShe Group, to enjoy a good old fashion day in the “country.” While at the ranch the girls interact with horses, donkeys, buffalo, pigs, goats, alpacas, dogs, cats and an ostrich.

The highlight of the day for the girls was meeting Dr. Ryan’s invited guest, celebrity rapper/actress, EVE. She answered questions about her life, her choices, and her convictions about being a young rapper in a male-dominated industry. She shared with them her future and gave them the encouragement they needed to believe in themselves and that they deserved the opportunity to pursue a bright future of love, prosperity and happiness.

Many thanks to Dr. Ryan and his many years of work in the community!

Meet a HerShe Girl: Meagan is Class Pres!

2007-10-24T16:56:00.000-07:00

With all of the political hoopla surrounding Hilary Clinton, Rudy Giuliani, and Barack Obama, there is something to celebrate locally here in Los Angeles. Thirteen (13) year old HerShe girl, Meagan W., has won the presidency of her 8th Grade class! “It was a big win for me,” she smiled, “I ran against several other candidates, but walked away with a very generous share of the votes!”

This demonstration of leadership this early in life is definitely a precursor of greatness in Meagan’s future. This summer, Meagan went through intensive leadership training at HerShe’s Camp Cinderella held at Pepperdine University. The HerShe leadership curriculum is created and delivered by the Catalyst Leadership Group. The girls are training to master three stages of leadership: (1) personal leadership; (2) leading with others; and finally, (3) leading the community. This youth leadership curriculum was originally developed for students at Yale University.

Anheuser-Busch hosts HerShe at Sea World San Diego

2007-10-24T16:53:00.001-07:00

If you are looking for adventure and are amazed by the beauty and wonder of those who live in the deep blue, then you are looking for an adventure at Sea World! Sea World San Diego is one of the world’s premier marine adventure parks with 200 acres of world-class shows, thrilling rides and unforgettable animal encounters. More than 80 million visitors have explored the mysteries of the sea at Sea World, with up-close animal interactions and exhilarating thrills.

Thanks to HerShe supporter, Deloria Jones, 35 HerShe girls were able to enjoy a day at this wonderful park. One HerShe girl was so impacted by the day that she decided to pursue a career in marine biology. Thanks, Deloria!

G-UNITY FOUNDATION SUPPORTS HERSHE WITH $10K GRANT

2007-10-24T16:51:00.000-07:00

Despite the negative attention the hip hop community gets regarding their lyrics and lifestyle, some rappers are using their celebrity to give back to the community. Curtis Jackson, III, also known as “50 Cent,” founded the G-Unity Foundation which provides grants to non-profit organizations that focus on improving the quality of life for low-income and underserved communities.
With a $10,000 grant, 50 Cent and the G-Unity Foundation made it possible for HerShe to expand its program and serve more young girls in foster care from Compton and south central Los Angeles. "The G-Unity Foundation is proud to support the HerShe program and the Cinderella Ball,” says Nina Biggar, G-Unity foundation consultant. “As these young women leave the foster care system, it is so critical that they have a support network like HerShe that can prepare these girls as they transition into independence. This is a truly unique program."

Other rappers who support HerShe include Eminem, Eve, Heavy D, MC Lyte and most notably, Dr. Dre, who donated to the HerShe Group a brand new Chevrolet Suburban to transport girls to and from HerShe events.

The Rotary of Los Angeles Awards the HerShe Group

2007-09-18T00:13:00.000-07:00

Community Service Grants are annual monetary awards given by the Rotary Club to organizations with "great projects aimed at improving society" says the Rotary Club of Los Angeles. The $6,000 award was given to Kenadie Cobbin-Richardson on behalf of the HerShe Group this summer at the City Club on Bunker Hill. A special thanks to Kathy Shirley, a HerShe Mentor, who encouraged Kenadie to apply for the grant and Rotary members, Gregory Brown and Derek Butler.

Rotary is a membership organization of over 1.3 million business and professional people, who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and peace throughout the world. The purpose of the Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service above self.

With over 400 members in this chapter, The Rotary Club of Los Angeles is one of the oldest and largest clubs in Rotary.

Meet a HerShe Girl: Tara

2007-09-18T00:08:00.000-07:00

Tara is a manifestation of the HerShe mission. She is a member of the HerShe Group’s Alpha Class (first group of girls to join HerShe). She became a HerShe when she was 17 years old and in the 11th Grade. Her first year mentor, Tiffany Barnes, was critical to her success during her last year of high school. Now in her second year of HerShe, she is ready to begin making her transition into adulthood. 65% of foster youth do not graduate from high school. She has already beat that statistic by graduating from Gardena High School this past August.

Our next step with Tara is to increase her ability to earn a living wage — a HerShe standard that all HerShe girls must meet to successfully complete the program. Tara’s current mentor, Maria Rice, connected her with Job Corps, where she will train to become a medical assistant. Tara said, “Thanks to the HerShe Group, I have the support I need to succeed. The sky is the limit!”

Ebony Magazine Honors Kenadie Cobbin & the HerShe Group

2007-09-18T00:05:00.000-07:00

Ebony’s first annual Sisterspeak Luncheon salutes “women making a powerful difference.” Ebony and Pine-Sol Brand Cleaners hosted the Los Angeles Sisterspeak Luncheon featuring the very funny and inspiring, Diane Amos (the Pine-Sol Lady) and author/speaker, Natasha Munson. Anchorwoman Pat Harvey was the mistress of ceremonies. The event was held on September 8 at the Omni Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. The uplifting event was limited to 250 lucky women.

The Ebony/Pine Sol award was given to Kenadie Cobbin-Richardson in honor of her hard work and dedication to the HerShe Group. Clorox, the makers of Pine Sol also made a donation to the HerShe Group in support of its important work in the foster care community.

Ebony Magazine expects to feature the Sisterspeak Luncheons in the December issue. Sisterspeak Luncheons were also held in Atlanta, Chicago, and New York.

Sanaa Lathan Surprises the HerShe Group

2007-07-31T23:59:00.000-07:00

Sanaa Lathan makes surprise visit at annual ‘Cinderella Ball.’ Sanaa Lathan was a surprise guest at the HerShe Group’s second annual “Cinderella Ball” for girls in the LA foster care system this past weekend. Lathan congratulated debutantes at the event, where she was also honored with a $20,000 donation from Soft & Beautiful hair care to the program, in recognition of Lathan’s volunteer work.

Foster Care's Belles of the Ball - LA Times

2007-07-30T03:27:00.001-07:00

By John Mitchell, LA Times staff writer

There’s a fairy tale of sorts in the story of how a group of girls from a foster care program in Compton blossomed into beautiful debutantes at a Cinderella Ball.

The tale begins with 29 teenage girls and young women who gathered over the course of three weeks last month at the Pepperdine University campus in Malibu. They were there to be schooled in the basics of life, to learn how to confront their worst fears about their childhood and to map their emancipation from the foster care system. The story climaxes with a ball, a coming-out party for 11 of the older girls, young debutantes who, for one night, dressed in white gowns and waltzed with tuxedoed escorts across the marbled floors of the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History. “Cinderella is more than a tale of a girl who lost a shoe and found a prince,” said Kenadie Cobbin, executive director of the HerShe Group, the mentoring and youth development organization behind the camp and ball. “She is the journey of a girl who is treated like an outsider, but dares to follow her dreams, and in the end achieves them. Although the denouement of the story has yet to be written, the beginning is frighteningly familiar.

Almost all of the girls in the program were taken from their families during some crisis and shuffled among relatives, foster families and group homes – from school to school and neighborhood to neighborhood – until, for many, the future seemed as bleak as the past. “The clock strikes 12 when they turn 18, and they are very fearful of what that does,” Cobbin said. “They have to be adults, and they’ve never really had a chance to be children.” Connie, for one, is not very enthusiastic about reaching the milestone. “I’m just not ready,” the 17 year-old said softly. “I don’t have dreams. I usually have nightmares about my past. I really don’t talk much, period.”

In Los Angeles County, 18-year-olds are not automatically turned out on the street with a token bus fare and a hefty garbage bag in which to pack their belongings. Of the 21,000 foster care children living outside their parent’s homes, the Department of Children and Family Services has placed more than one-third in transitional care, which allows young adults to delay emancipation until the age of 21. Nonetheless, studies indicate that pregnancy, homelessness and incarceration remain problems for the estimated 1,200 who age our of the system each year.

Cobbin’s goal is to the smooth the bumps in the road. Before the Cinderella camp opened in late June, the Los Angeles chapter of the Links, Inc., an African-American civic and charitable organization, held a formal tea for the girls at a member’s home in Hancock Park. That meant the girls were acquainted by the time they checked into campus dorms, but trust didn’t come easily. At the beginning of their stay at Pepperdine, there was little interest in sharing their stories. What’s more, their appearance – tattoos, boyish clothes, garish jewelry – was a barrier. “Is that a tongue ring in your mouth?” retired Judge Veronica McBeth, a strong backer of the program, asked one of the soon-to-be debutantes walking across campus. “You know it’ll be hard to get a job with that in there.” The judge didn’t comment on the 16-year-old girl’s nine tattoos, including one with the numbers 5150 on the back of her neck: state Welfare and Institutions Code shorthand for someone with a mental disorder, a danger to themselves or others. “That’s the only one I regret getting,” said Keanakay, who admitted that she didn’t immediately feel comfortable among the other girls and the women who were trying to help them. “It was the most I’ve been around women my whole life,” she said. “This is my introduction to womanhood.”

There was an uneasy tension when the girls first arrived. “Some of them would not go to bed and they wouldn’t try to be quiet.” Said Tann Moore, a camp counselor. “If you asked for quiet, you’d get on of those eye-rolls, neck-rolls or hard-breath reaction.” But attitudes slowly began to change as the girls shared some of their experiences.

Angel, 17, lives with a foster mother who has threatened to throw her out. She doesn’t talk much about the pain she carries, but she loves to write, keeps a daily journal and dreams of becoming a journalist some day. She wrote about her bittersweet feelings in a poem:

I’m grateful for my brother who doesn’t know much of what I’m going through
I don’t worry about it.
Sometimes I ask: Am I supposed to be thankful for the love that is not here?
Her love, her memory, her hugs, her destiny.
She looks down on me.
I say thanks mommy for making me strong.
You are not here, but I still hug on.
I’m thankful for mother’s day . . . I hate father’s day.
I’m thankful for Angel.

The camp was split between two sessions with two age groups, one for the younger girls 12-15, and the other for those closer to transitioning out of foster care. Morning exercise began at 6 a.m. with yoga and stretching. The girls swatted flies while riding horses and broke nails as they went rock climbing. They bowled gutter balls at a local alley and sang karaoke off-key. There were picnics and campfires on the beach – experiences had never had in their lives.

In addition, mentors and role models visited the campus to teach life skills – how to balance a check book, fill out applications for jobs, college or apartments. The girls kept journals and told stories of their abandonment, neglect and abuse. They discussed forgiveness. “Forgiveness is really big,” Cobbin said. “They have to forgive the two most important people in their lives. To be in foster care, your mother and your father have let you down: molestation, alcohol, drugs, and incarceration. The younger girls in the group still have hope, still believe that their mother will get off drugs, straighten up and come back home. The older girls have gotten beyond that and move to ‘I don’t care.’” Cobbin said.

Theresa Fair, a life coach at the session, said she learned that maternal hatred can lead to self-hate. “I used to hang with the guys because they would stroke me and tell me I was cute,” Fair recalled, relating her own experience to the girls. “But I had to be honest with myself, I had to learn to dance the dance with women. They became my mirrors and my shadows. I had to learn from them just who I was.”

During one final session of the camp, Danielle, 17, said the most important lessons she learned came from the simple experience of being in the group. “We learned just how to bond, we learned how to trust each other,” she said. “You can’t be sisters and have that bond unless you have trust.”

Each young debutante walked away from the camp experience with something different:

Tara, a 17-year-old in the system since she was 13 months old, said she has learned patience.

Porchia, 21, who has a 2-year-old son, doesn’t want to follow the same drug-laden path as her mother.

Tinesha, 17, vowed to complete high school and go to college to major in communication, an area she sees as a weakness.

Tarilynn, 17, just figures it’s OK to open up and let people know how you feel. “It’s OK to love and not get hurt.”

And Eva, 20, says she just want to “dance in the rain without getting wet.”

As the date for the ball approached, rehearsals become more intense.

“Shoulder back! Stand straight! Smile! Don’t forget to smile,” implored choreographer, Tyna Andrews Parish.

The women were supplied with gowns, and stylists volunteered to do their hair. A West Hollywood spa, l.a. vie l’orange, prepared their nails. Makeup artists were brought in to do their foundation, eye makeup – shadow, liner, mascara and contour – cheeks and the lips.

The tab for the camp and the July 29 gala came to $82,000 raised largely through private donations and fundraising events.

Dr. Dre’s record label, Aftermath Entertainment, donated a 2006 Chevrolet Suburban and helped raise $25,000 of the money from various rappers. County Supervisor Yvonne Brathwaite Burke arranged for the museum site.

On the night of the ball, nearly 300 guests packed the museum’s North American Mammal wing. The audience erupted in applause as the young women made their entrance, escorted by boys who also are supervised by the Compton office of the Department of Children and Family Services.

Betty Hall was more than pleased with her foster daughter, Kim, 17, a senior at Compton High who is on the cheerleading squad and has a 3.8 grade point average. “She is so beautiful,” she said. Hall recalled how rough around the edges Kim and her sister were when she took them into her home. “I said I’d take her for a week and I ended up having them for five years,” she said, watching Kim dance. “I told them, I’m keeping these two because I believe they can change.” They did.

No one seemed happier than Kimasha Houston, Eva’s older sister. “She is the life of the party,” Houston said. “Just to see her happy and focused” She is a reflection of her inner beauty.”

Eva has been in the foster care system since birth. She never knew her father, and her mother, who struggled with crack addiction, has been diagnosed with cancer. At 16, Eva ran away from a relative’s home where she was hit with a belt buckle and called a crack baby. She graduated from high school, tasted college and now has a burning desire to be a social worker.

Eva doesn’t like it if someone says she’s blossoming like a flower. “I’d much rather be a tree,” she said. Trees stand still and I just want to stand still.”

The ball ended with embraces, picture-taking and promises to keep in-touch. The music switched to hip-hop and the girls broke out into their own dances. They are scheduled to meet next month with program mentors, who will keep track of their progress over the year.

And they no doubt will recall the “Cinderella” theme that was played at the ball:

A dream is a wish your heart makes
When you’re fast asleep.
In dreams you will loose your heart aches
Whatever you wish for, you keep.
Have faith in your dreams and some day
Your rainbows will come smiling through.
No matter how your heart is grieving
If you keep on believing
The dream that you wish will come true.

Author: John L. Mitchell
Date: August 14, 2006
Start Page: B. 1
Section: California Metro; Part B; Metro Desk

HerShe Group welcomes Sanaa Lathan to Annual Cinderella Ball

2007-07-27T08:45:00.000-07:00

SHHHHHH!

ACTRESS SANAA LATHAN MAKES SURPRISE APPEARANCE AT HERSHE GROUP'S 2nd ANNUAL CINDERELLA BALL

Sanaa Lathan will surprise deserving young girls at an annual celebration of their successful
transition from foster care into society.

WHO: Actress, SANAA LATHAN, who’s starred in films like Brown Sugar, Love & Basketball, Something New, Out of Time opposite Denzel Washington and A Raisin in the Sun opposite Sean Combs airing on ABC later in the year, to make her surprise appearance.

WHAT: The HerShe Group hosts it's 2nd Annual Cinderella Ball, a prominent fundraising ball.

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. PT, Saturday July 28, 2007. Members of the media, please arrive by 8:00 pm to sign in and receive your credentials that will allow you into this private event.

WHERE: Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90007

BACKGROUND: Ms. Lathan has chosen The HerShe Group as the women’s charity of choice to donate thousands of dollars of Soft & Beautiful hair care products to since being crowned Ms. Soft & Beautiful. The organization empowers young women in foster care and those that have been recently emancipated, to make a successful transition from adolescence to adult independence by exposing them to extraordinary experiences through the arts, mentorship, discovery and training. The Cinderella Ball is the culmination of the training process that makes a significant difference in the lives of girls transitioning out of foster care. These young women have NO idea that Ms. Lathan will come to the ball to witness them on their big day!

The HerShe Organization holds Camp Cinderella every summer. In preparation for the Cinderella Ball the girls are trained at Camp Cinderella. Areas of training include personal & social development, self-esteem, forgiveness, etiquette, college & job preparation, health & nutrition, relationships and effective communication.

At the end of camp, the young girls participate in the Ball. The Cinderella ball is a black-tie formal fundraising gala that presents the young women into the society. Like that of a cotillion, they’ll be dancing the waltz with their male escorts.

Ms. Lathan’s appearance goes along with her recently being named Miss Soft & Beautiful 2007. In response, the hair care brand included a charitable donation along with hair care products to the organization.

Tickets can be purchased at www.hershegroup.org Click on "Cinderella Ball".

For bios or fact sheets on any of the above participants, call Jordan at (214) 741.2100 ext. 701