United Advocates for Children and Families (UACF), local business leaders and mental health advocates are raising awareness and funds for children’s mental health through UACF’s first annual awards dinner on September 18, 2009 in Sacramento. “Banquet with Business Leaders” promises an evening filled with fun, entertainment, live music, art show and awards for a great cause. All proceeds will be used to assist families in understanding the complexities of mental illness and to seek appropriate treatment for their children.

UACF will be honoring mental health heroes who have made a difference in the mental health community. The Staglin Family, owners of the Staglin Family Winery in Napa, will be presented with UACF’s highest recognition – the “Carolyn Cooper Award.” The Staglin Family has provided millions of dollars for brain research programs that otherwise would not be realized. UACF will also present awards for the “Youth of the Year” and “Parent Partner of the Year.”

Why:
Few businesses are escaping the economic pressures in California, and virtually no business or employer is avoiding the effects of mental illness in the workplace when children of employees are involved. More than 1 million young kids and teens in California will experience a behavioral or emotional disorder this year, and 600,000 will not receive adequate treatment. Studies show the impact of this on local businesses is dramatic.

In a survey of nearly 350 parents of children with emotional or behavioral challenges regarding their workplace experiences:
• 48 percent of parents had to quit work at some time to care for their child with an emotional or behavioral disorder;
• 27 percent were terminated due to work interruptions when caring for their loved ones; and
• 17 percent were unemployed.

Who:
The Staglin Family
Oscar Wright, Chief Executive Officer, United Advocates for Children and Families
Suzanne Fisher, Executive Director, California Association of School Psychologists
Sandra Naylor Goodwin, Ph.D., Executive Director, California Institute of Mental Health
Marc Roberts, President, Associated Pension Consultants
Perry Ghilarducci, Principal, Avaunt Ltd

When:
Friday, September 18, 2009
5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Where:
Le Rivage Hotel, one of Sacramento’s newest luxury hotels
4350 Riverside Boulevard, Sacramento 95822

For sponsorship opportunities or more information, visit www.uacf4hope.org.