**2014 RECAP**
Connections of Hope, a phrase that was repeated many times on November 7, saw 300 people gather at the Omni MonteLucia Resort in support of our organization.
The night was a celebration of youth with 4 teen volunteers, Peer Counselors, sharing their stories of hope and help that they have given to countless teens on the hotline.
While the dinner was slightly delayed, those in attendance made the best of it by spirited bidding in the live auction. Even more compelling was the support that was garnered during the fund-a-need section, where bidders supported the lifesaving mission of Teen Lifeline.
Overall, Connections of Hope: an Evening to Celebrate Arizona's Youth, raised over $300,000 in an effort to erase suicide among teens.
After dinner, the presentation of the Alfredo J. Molina Community Lifeline Award was presented to singer-songwriter, Jordin Sparks. Her passion for inspiring youth and making a real impact in the community has been evident is her charity work over her short career. Jordin graciously accepted the award and treated those in attendance with an impromptu a cappella rendition of "Faith" from her 2009 album, Battlefield.
Jordin remained on stage to assist with the presentation of the teen Volunteer of the Year Award. The recipient this year was Peer Counselor Kenzie. She thanked everyone, from the Teen Lifeline staff and volunteers to those in attendance, for saving her life and the lives of thousands of other teens across the Valley. For her incredible volunteerism, Kenzie received an engraved watch from Molina Fine Jewelers and a $1,000 scholarship.
The evening concluded with a sensational performance by teen band, Lelea + TRPR Band. Guests were dancing in the isles through a series of cover songs and originals with 13-year-old Lelea ending the night with his version of "Come Together". The evening was a true celebration of youth!
We thank everyone for their participation and generosity in making this even a success and for supporting area youth!
You can continue to contribute to the lifesaving mission of Teen Lifeline by donating HERE or getting involved in a variety of other ways HERE.
You can view the full photo album from Alyssa Campbell Photography here.
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The Alfredo J. Molina Community Lifeline Award is presented to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the service of others in their lifetime, particularly to youth. The recipient serves as a community role model; provides inspiration to others with their personal and professional integrity, leading through creativity, initiative and excellence.
In 2005, the award was named in honor of the inaugural recipient, Alfredo J. Molina, for his service to Arizona youth and our community. Presented each year at the annual Connections of Hope event, the award highlights someone whose compassionate spirit and willingness to give back has benefited the youth. Previous recipients include:
Jordin Sparks (2014), Larry Fitzgerald Jr.(2013), Jerry Colangelo (2012), Bridget Pettis (2011), John R. Norton III (2009), Linda and Bill Pope (2008), Derrick Hall (2007), Carole and Bob Machiz (2006), Peter Thomas (2005), and Alfredo J. Molina (2004).
Date:
Location:
Montelucia Resort & Spa
4949 E Lincoln Dr.
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Honoree:
Musical Guest:
Attire:
Cocktail Chic
Tickets:
Individual Tickets - $250 each
Sponsorship:
Sponsorship packages from $3,000 to $25,000
Event Chair:
2014 Advisors:
Event Coordinator:
Dottie Kobik,
Monarch Events, Inc.
(480) 664-1052
Teen Lifeline:
Michelle Moorhead,
Executive Director
(602) 248-8337
THE CAUSE:
Imagine a world where 60% of our teenagers have
thought about suicide, 1 in 6 has made a suicide plan and nearly 1 in 10 has
attempted suicide. Imagine a world
where our teens are struggling with peer pressure, bullying, substance abuse,
physical abuse, gang violence, and then… imagine
limiting access to the resources teens need to deal with those stressors.
Sadly…that world is a reality for most of our teens today. In 2013, one (1) child died by suicide every 11 days in Arizona.
But there is hope! Teen Lifeline is a safe, confidential, and crucial crisis service where teens help
teens make healthy decisions together. The
biggest thing that separates us from other crisis hotlines is the people who
answer the phone. We understand that when a teen wants to talk about their
problems, they would prefer to turn to another teen. That is what makes Teen Lifeline both unique and incredibly successful, teens helping teens. Established
in 1986 in Arizona, our goal is to answer teens’ calls for help. Over the past
28 years, Teen Lifeline has served over half a million teens and families.
