Hope Shines in Los Angeles

On October 19, 2008, the series of events marking the nationwide launch of Hope Shining culminated in a celebration at Project 710 in Los Angeles. The event was presented by the Joyful Heart Foundation and hosted by actress Hilary Swank and Philosophy founder Cristina Carlino.

The guest list of approximately 70 individuals included Dr. Bob Pynoos, co-director of the National Center for Child Traumatic Stress, and several Joyful Heart Foundation Board members, such as Andrea Buchanan and actor Peter Hermann.

Peter Hermann was the perfect master of ceremonies, introducing the hosts and special guests during the brief program. Hilary Swank welcomed the guests, saying how honored she was to stand in for her close friend Mariska Hargitay, who was filming Law and Order in New York. Cristina Carlino underscored the importance of shining light on the dark issues of sexual assault and child abuse.

Peter Hermann then introduced Hope Shining, explaining its vision and mission, and thanked Capital One for their generous support as Hope Shining's Proud National Sponsor. He discussed the public awareness campaign and explained that the ads displayed throughout the room were in elevators, buses and billboards in Los Angeles and across the country.

Chief Program Officer Bea Hanson thanked the Joyful Heart Foundation and Bob Pynoos for joining the Hope Shining movement. She mentioned the Los Angeles Bystanders and Child Abuse survey, which Peter later discussed in more detail, and how it underscores the need to educate the public about abuse.

Lastly, Peter urged attendees to get involved by reading the "10 Signs of Child Abuse" tip cards on the tables and in their gift bags and by lending their time and talents to the campaign. He made the connection between the goals of Hope Shining and the Joyful Heart Foundation very clear, and inspired everyone in attendance.

Our deepest appreciation goes out to the Joyful Heart Foundation and all of the partners who helped to launch Hope Shining from coast to coast. Of course, none of it would have been possible without the generosity and unwavering support of Capital One. Their commitment to children and families across the nation stands as a testament to our shared belief that every child is entitled to a life free from violence and full of possibilities.

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