Laura's House Celebrates Brighter Futures In Virtual Luncheon

MISSION VIEJO, CA — How does one support their favorite local charity in the time of coronavirus? A virtual luncheon, of course. Friday, more than 200 supporters of Laura’s House, the Southern California nonprofit organization dedicated to domestic violence prevention and education, celebrated inspiration, hope and support for a future where people can enjoy lives free of violence.

The 5th annual ‘Brighter Futures’ Luncheon chaired by Laura’s House Board Member Anne MacPherson, highlighted the vital prevention work that is being done in the community to help educate youth about healthy relationships.

In line with its annual in-person luncheon, the nonprofit broadcasted beautifully decorated tables, place settings and centerpieces inspired by the brighter futures theme.

Local businesses, community leaders, and designers who contributed to the event included Couture Flowers, Hibner Design Group, The Hive, Kendra Scott, Girl Scouts OC, Griacci Vineyards and Farms, Western National Group, Barclay Butera, Patty Bucklen, Jenni Kayne, Staci Fournier, Katharine Story, Laura’s House Prevention and Education Department and Resale Stores.

Margaret Bayston, Laura’s House CEO/executive director, spoke on the event.

"In light of the coronavirus pandemic and stay-at-home orders, we’ve seen an uptick in domestic violence cases in Orange County and beyond, making it critical – now more than ever – to support our community with the resources needed to live free of physical and mental abuse," Bayston said. "For five years, Brighter Futures has provided a platform to celebrate our loyal supporters and raise the funds needed to fulfill our mission of changing social beliefs, attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate violence. Prevention education is key, and we’re happy to gather this group of supporters to share expert insight on healthy relationships and to empower our guests with the knowledge to be an advocate.”

During the virtual luncheon, an expert panel led an educational discussion on "What Parents Need to Know" about teen dating, abuse, human trafficking, bullying and other harmful behaviors that affect today's youth.

Panelists included, Don Barnes, Sheriff-Coroner, Orange County Sheriff’s Department; Jennifer Ponce MSW, CHES, Prevention and Education Manager, Laura’s House; Dr. Adela Cruz, LCSW, Mental Health Coordinator, Anaheim Union High School District; Adam Doge, Founder & CEO of EndTAB and Veronica Stephens, Moderator and Community Education Specialist, Laura’s House.

Laura’s House also presented Brighter Futures Awards to community members who have demonstrated a strong allegiance to empowering youth, advocating for healthy relationships and spreading awareness about domestic violence prevention and education. Honorees included:

• Makayla – Youth Leader Award: Makayla is a high school student at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School. She was honored by Laura’s House for showing an exceptional commitment to educating her peers about healthy relationship building.

• Sonia McClellan – Advocate: In addition to her career as a mortgage consultant, sales manager and founder of Vaca Valley Mortgage, Sonia McClellan is an advocate for domestic violence prevention and education. Through sharing her personal story and vital resources, Sonia helps educate the community about intimate partner violence.

Other event highlights included a specialty mocktail presented by guest bartender and Mixologist, Neesa of Harley’s Laguna Beach. Event guests also enjoyed a silent auction drawing with gifts from David Yurman, Balboa Bay Resort, South Coast Plaza, Lido House Hotel, Athleta, Alice & Olivia, Gorjana and more.

Brighter Futures event sponsors included: Laura Khouri, Anne MacPherson, Aviso Legal Group LLP, Patty Bucklen, Laura Feld, Staci Fournier, Cheryl Osborn/Casco Contractors, R.D. Olson Group and Casey Wolin.