A Publication of Presidio Communications • March 2015
©
San Diego Center for Children
Local News
13
Celebrates 35 Anniversary th
Fundraiser is Hosted by the Iris Auxiliary
by Aubree Lynn, st ylist/producer/
writerStylishlyAubreeLynn.com
The Iris Auxiliary, whose mission over the past 35 years has been to help kids at the San Diego Center for Children, held a fundraiser to support this cause. The event was emceed by KUSI news anchor Sandra Maas. Maas has been a supporter of the Center for Children and was given the honor to be the mistress of ceremonies. The show featured creations of the inspiring Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) survivor and celebrity designer Lizz Russell. Also contributing to the event with her fashions was New York designer Michelle Walden, who was featured in San Diego Fashion Week; and Kim Covert–Miss Philippines Earth Water 2014–who modeled Lizz Russell’s collections. The luncheon and fashion show was held this past January at the University Club at Symphony Towers in downtown San Diego. The event included book signing by Lizz Russell. Her inspiring book, “Smiling on the Inside,” is Russell’s compelling
Blankinship & Foster
story on her survival from Guillain Barre Syndrome, defying all limits, following her dream and sharing her success to help and inspire others. The Iris Auxiliary thanks all of their contributors as they have raised over a million dollars through various fundraisers and have officially titled Lizz Russell as San Diego’s Diva of Haute Couture. “I was delighted to be part of this fundraiser for the Center for Children. After all the children are our futures and we must invest in them. It was an honor to participate,” shared Lizz Russell. To learn more about San Diego Center for Children, visit www.centerforchildren.org. For information on Lizz Russell, her life story and collection, visit www. lizzrussell.com. To learn more about Aubree Lynn, stylist, producer and writer, visit www.stylishlyaubreelynn.com.•
Lizz Russell (left) and Sandra Maas have been actively contributing to the Center for Children.
CIO Leads Girl Scouts
Blankinship & Foster, a nationally recognized wealth advisory firm in Solana Beach, California, announced that its Chief Investment Officer, Rick Brooks, has been elected chairman of the board of directors of Girl Scouts San Diego. Brooks’ tenure officially began January 5, just in time for the start of the annual Girl Scouts Cookie Program on Sunday, January 23. “As a member of our investment, property and executive committees, Rick Brooks has provided invaluable financial expertise,” said Girl Scouts San Diego CEO Jo Dee C. Jacob.” “And—as the first male to chair the board of our 98-year-old organization—he’s making history.” “It’s an honor and privilege to be leading such a great organization,” said Brooks. “As a father of two former Girl Scouts, I know firsthand how Girl Scout programs develop girls as future community leaders. I see those leadership skills in my own daughters every day.”
Despite his demanding schedule as chief investment officer of one of San Diego’s premier wealth advisory firms, Brooks is no stranger to service. He has served on the board of Girl Scouts San Diego for four years, and also participates in a number of other local organizations, including the San Diego Foundation and Presidio Little League. He is a past president of the Chartered Financial Analysts Society of San Diego. Brooks’ appointment to lead Girl Scouts San Diego reflects the philanthropic and community support embodied by Blankinship & Foster. “Rick taking on this important role is a testament to his dedication and contribution to the community,” said Stefan Prvanov, CFP®, Blankinship & Foster’s president and CEO. “Rick exemplifies one of Blankinship & Foster core values and guiding principles: to promote a culture of community involvement.•
Rick Brooks accepts the Girl Scout flag from Girl Scout Junior Emersen Rider, daughter of Immediate Past Chair Debbie Rider (right). Photo by Paul Nestor.
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