$100,000 Challenge Announced by Trish and Dan Bell at “Spring for CHARLEE” Luncheon

On May 6th, 2009, more than 200 guests and supporters of CHARLEE Homes for Children gathered at the University of Miami – BankUnited Center – Hurricane 100 Room for the first annual Spring for CHARLEE “ fun-raising” luncheon.

It was a powerful and emotional one-hour program opened by Denise Minakowski, Interim Board Chair and speakers, Sheila Williams, a CHARLEE foster parent, and Ruth Rios, a CHARLEE graduate. Both shared their very personal and heartfelt life stories. Tissue boxes were on the tables and were appreciated as there was hardly a dry eye in the house.

Also Suzy Schumer, Executive Director spoke about the visions of CHARLEE’s future and current projects and a special presentation by Yvonne Bare, Board Member and Development Committee Chair, regarding the many needs of over 1,400 foster children cared for by CHARLEE each year.

One of the highlights was a video presentation donated by Ed Malone Studios about three of CHARLEE’s current employees who have grown up in foster care and are currently in the Independent Living Program (over 18 years of age). Sharah, Kedy and Crystal are just a few of the Shining Stars of CHARLEE who have become successful young adults, all attending college, making a positive impact in our community.

An incredible announcement was made: Donations made at the luncheon or for the SPRING FOR CHARLEE campaign will be matched dollar for dollar up to $100,000 by philanthropists Trish and Dan Bell. Nancy Hector, Board Chair, announced an additional match of the donations for the annual “SPRING for CHARLEE” campaign over the following four years.

Anyone interested in learning more about CHARLEE can come to a “CHARLEE Chat” (one hour tour) of the facility. The dates and time are listed on their website www.charleeprogram.org or by contacting, Marilyn March – Development Director at 305-779-9796 or marilyn.march@charleeprogram.org.