First published in the Sept. 9 print issue of the Pasadena Outlook.
The Give-Mentor-Love Foundation will host its annual fundraiser in-person on Saturday, Oct. 2, in support of Los Angeles County children rescued from sex trade, and other youth and young adults in crisis, at risk and homeless.
This event will be a Cajun-style dance party, known as a “Fais Do-Do,” and will take place in a romantic bayou-themed setting with music, drinks and food. The evening will also feature auction and fundraising opportunities to support GML’s efforts.
Give-Mentor-Love (GML) is excited to announce that Paul Rusnak, founder and chairman of Rusnak Auto Group, will match funds raised through sponsorships, donations and tickets up to $100,000.
“Sex trafficking is one of the fastest growing criminal industries worldwide,” said Donna Pierson, founder and chairperson of GML. “In fact, L.A. County is one of the nation’s 13 high-intensity child prostitution areas as identified by the FBI, with the average entry age falling victim to sexual exploitation being 12-14 years old.
“We hope you’ll join us on Oct. 2 in both raising awareness and funds as the youth and young adults we serve need our help now more than ever.”
Through their partnerships with the L.A. County Bureau of Specialized Response Services for Commercial Sexual Exploited Children, L.A. County Division of ZOE International, Learning Works Charter School and several foster group homes, GML is a “layer of the healing process.” “The organization gives immediate and continued support of basic needs and financial assistance, mentors those rescued and in-crisis to help them rediscover their self-worth, and loves these victims unconditionally so they can move beyond the trauma they have suffered and thrive,” a spokesperson said.
Notably, GML has recently opened a shop exclusively for those it serves. The shop offers new and gently used items of all kinds that are donated, including clothing, household items, furniture, baby items and more, with everything being free and with no limits to how much one can take.
For further event information regarding sponsorships, tickets and donations, visit givementorlove.org/fais-do-do. To donate items to GML’s shop, contact Adria Romero at (626) 391-9147 or info@givementorlove.org.
