Dear Friends,

Think back to your own childhood, the hug of a grandparent, the time a parent invested to guide you, the motivating words of a family member who served as a coach, teacher or mentor. Now, imagine your youth without those trusted relationships. You can begin to understand the lives of children arriving at Hillsides.

For the past 95 years, Hillsides has created a safe place for children suffering the serious emotional and mental effects of abuse and neglect. They range from 6 to 18 years of age, and have often endured over six previous foster placements. Desperately in need of healing, structure and consistency, Hillsides’ outstanding staff provides the support, therapy, education and individual guidance to lead these children to a more golden future.

We ask you to reflect on the individuals who positively impacted you as a child and to honor them by sponsoring Hillsides’ annual benefit, “The Midas Touch,” to be held on Saturday, February 27, 2010 at the California Club.

Our annual benefit’s theme refers to the fable of King Midas, able to turn all he touched to gold. Unfortunately, this left him unable to taste a juicy apple, to drink in the luscious scent of a flower or to touch the ones he loved, the most cherished of possessions. By sponsoring our event, your touch transforms gold into a much more precious element, hope. You can provide children with the true riches of trust and love.

Please review the Event Sponsor Form, detailing the levels and benefits of donating, as well as highlights of last year’s event. Please join us in creating an evening that is the gold standard for all to come, that will touch and change the lives of many.

With deepest gratitude,