49ers co-Chairman John York referenced a well-known book about an abused child and a room engaged in food, wine and conversation was suddenly silenced, overwhelmed with emotion. The book, written by a survivor of unimaginable abuse from his mother paints the picture that Hedge Funds Care and the 49ers Foundation hope to shred and rid of forever.
"The 49ers Foundation's mission is to 'Keep Kids Safe, on Track, and in School,'" stated John York, "The Hedge Funds industry has demonstrated that same mission by donating over 800 grants since its inception in 1998. Hedge Funds Care has been a great organization to partner with to truly ensure our children our safe first, and can focus on a promising future."
Hedge Funds Care, also known as Help for Children (HFC) is an international charity supported largely by the Hedge Funds industry whose sole mission is to prevent and treat child abuse. Through the partnership with the 49ers Foundation, the organization raised over $650,000 at the "Open Your Heart to the Children" event held at City View at the Metreon in San Francisco. Attendees included 49ers alumni, the York family, 49ers coaches Greg Roman, Brad Seely, Jim Tomsula, and Geep Chryst, and 49ers players Luke Marquardt, Kevin McDermott, Joe Staley, Al Netter, Adam Snyder, and McLeod Bethel-Thompson. The room was filled with top vintners from Napa Valley, plentiful mouthwatering hors d'oeuvres and a silent auction which sparked buzz and attention throughout the venue.
"These events are truly incredible," expressed defensive line coach Jim Tomusla, "It starts with the top—our ownership, and the remarkable people who help put on these events to bring in thousands upon thousands of dollars for the children. It is something to enjoy, absorb and learn from, and we are grateful to be a part of it."
While adding pizzazz to the ever-growing event, 49ers coaches, players and ownership also contributed their vested interest in supporting the mission to raise as much money as possible to fund the programs which prevent and treat child abuse.
"We love attending events like this and are proud to support the Hedge Funds Care mission of eradicating child abuse," said 49ers tackle Joe Staley, "Our community provides us with such great sustenance, and we want to return the support to ensure our fans and the children of our community are kept safe."
The HFC event attracted over 500 individuals from around the Bay Area. Beginning at the inception of Hedge Funds Care, the event has catapulted the impact of the organization which has now reached more than fifty charitable non-profits, including a featured beneficiary, InnVision Shelter Network.
"This event is a true partnership, and we really enjoy being a part of it," said Director of Community Relations and the 49ers Foundation, Joanne Pasternack. "The beneficiaries are very well-researched, and Hedge Funds Care ensures every penny will go to an organization which impacts children in need, in alignment with the 49ers Foundation's mission to 'Keep Kids Safe, on Track, and in School."
Exclusively focusing on funding one cause, the awareness and treatment of child abuse, makes Hedge Funds Care the only revenue generating public non-profit of its kind.
"We not only strive for involvement through donations, but for involvement through genuine interest in keeping our children safe," expressed Hedge Funds Care Event co-Chair Chris Grandi, "The 49ers Foundation and everyone here tonight share that with us. With the support of the York family and the San Francisco community, we will continue to grow this event, grow our mission, and establish a foundation to continue making a difference."
