800-993-7422
There's just something so special about this time of year. It seems as though the period from Thanksgiving all the way through New Years has the potential to bring out the best in all of us. Folks are friendlier, and even complete strangers will smile and wish you well in your day to day life.
Traditionally, the holiday season is a time to visit with family and friends, of course, but it's also a time to reflect on your good fortune and blessings. And, it’s a time of giving, especially to those in need. It's a wonderful phenomenon to witness - every year around this time, the number of gifts and donations given to charities all increase dramatically, and with good reason. When we feel fulfilled in our own lives we are more inclined to wish goodwill upon others and that often results in action, whether as donations of time at a shelter, or gifts of monetary value.
We got into the holiday spirit a little early this year. This past summer, an intern from Hollywood Heart reached out to us at Epica and asked if we might have something for their campers. We came to learn that Camp Hollywood Heart brings young people stricken with HIV/AIDS to their camp in Malibu, California for a week each year to give them hands-on training in seven arts disciplines related to the film industry: acting, creative writing, culinary arts, documentary filmmaking, fashion, music, and visual arts. Notable guests to visit and speak at CHH in past years include Will Arnett, Charlize Theron, David Arquette, Michelle Williams, Daisy Fuentes, and Cuba Gooding Jr., each with their own message to help inspire the campers.
We were moved by the request and by the stories of courage under what must be tremendous challenges, especially for these young people, all aged 15 -20. How wonderful that they had an opportunity to come together with others in a stigma-free environment and focus their attention on fun and creativity.And since our group of ten campers were attending the creative writing camp, what better way to support their creativity than to personalize some journals for this year’s attendees.
We were so happy to hear that the campers enjoyed their week in California and hope that they all have the opportunity to delve further into these newly developed skills! It’s been a truly heartwarming experience for us here at Epica. We hope your holiday season is filled with love, family, friends, and the joy of giving.
If you would like to learn more about Camp Hollywood Heart or offer them your support, check them out at:
http://hollywoodheart.org/donate/
What an awesome program. I look forward to collaborating with you.
Thank you very much for your heartfelt support and what you have done to spark creativity in our campers. David Gale, Chairman of Hollywood Heart
What a fantastic article! Our campers were very excited to receive the Epica journals and take home such a beautiful keepsake. Thank you SO MUCH for your generosity and kindness. See you next year!