The Academy Awards on Feb. 24 wasn’t just a ceremony to recognize talent, over 45 cities and their local charities use the event to raise money and awareness. Oscar Experience: Benefits is the grassroots program of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ enabling local charities to host Oscar viewing parties.
It has been a tradition at Cobb County’s The Center for Family Resources for over 10 years. This year the black-tie fundraiser that broadcasts the awards ceremony live was held at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
“The Oscar Experience brings the glamour of Hollywood to Georgia for a great cause,” said 2013 Co-chair Bob Kiser. “It is such a fun event with a full red carpet, photo opportunities, local entertainment, and also — at the same time — we get to raise awareness and funds for CFR and its mission to help low-income families.”
CFR has served the Cobb County area since 1960. The organization has helped thousands of low-income families with temporary financial and food assistance, employment, education, and housing services. It is committed to breaking the cycle of poverty by helping families acquire the resources they need to become independent and self-sufficient.
The success of CFR has come from many of its volunteers. “People can volunteer with many of our initiatives such as the GED classes, come help with intake in the office, and even The Oscar Experience,” added CEO Jeri Barr.
With over 600 guests, The Oscar Experience raised over $300,000 for The Center for Family Resources. The money raised will go towards GED classes, rent and utility assistance, life skills classes, the job lab and food pantry, among many other services.
“We truly work to stabilize and empower families so that they become self-sufficient, “ added CFR’s communications associate Arielle Haynes. “When clients walk through our doors, we work hard to make sure that they never have to walk through another door for assistance. It is why events like Oscar Experience are so important because the money is ensured to help different clients every year who are in search of true life change.”
To volunteer with The Center for Family Resources, visit www.thecfr.org
In other news: The Resurgens Foundation donated $25,000 to The Children's Village at Christian City to help to provide the abandoned and abused children who live in the cottages on their campus with a recreational multi-court facility. The mission of the Resurgens Foundation is to promote active lifestyles for people of all ages and all abilities.
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