The Help Group’s 7th Annual Teddy Bear Tea ~ An Affair of the Heart was truly an inspirational afternoon featuring keynote speaker, Malissa Ferruzi Shriver, a well-known and impassioned advocate for arts education in schools. The Tea was graciously hosted by Jamie McGurk and co-hosted by Therese Gamba and Judy Wolf.

Dr. Barbara Firestone began the event by thanking all those in attendance, “The compassion and caring of everyone gathered here today creates a wonderful valentine for our young people.” Dr. Firestone extended her heartfelt appreciation to all of the Tea patrons, sponsors and guests for their generosity and friendship.

To cap off the afternoon, special guest speaker, Malissa Ferruzzi Shriver inspired the audience with her remarks and spoke of the power each person has to become an “agent of change” and make a difference for others. Malissa spoke about the path that led to her advocacy efforts in arts education throughout California and the United States, and why she is so committed to doing everything possible to provide children with the opportunities to realize their fullest potential.

Other highlights of the program included heart-warming performances by The Help Group Children’s Choir, which captured the hearts of the audience and truly made the afternoon an Affair of the Heart!

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