SVP Shines the Spotlights on Success

By Rachel Camacho

On May 23, nearly 100 Partners and guests gathered in Del Mar for SVP’s first ever Spotlights on Success. The auditorium at AMN Healthcare was transformed into an intimate, in-depth experience as guests discovered SVP’s real impact in the community.

San Diego’s own Susan Farrell (pictured right) moderated an engaging panel discussion with current SVP Investees:  TKF, Reality Changers and REBOOT who’s Executive Directors described how their organizations have been transformed because of their SDSVP experience. Each Investee brought a beneficiary of their program who shared personal “tales from the trenches” that touched the hearts of everyone in the room.

One of the highlights was Reality Changer’s graduate and Cal Berkley bound, Chris Lopez (pictured above). Chris was candid about his former gang affiliation and struggles as a teen. Lopez admits that had he not joined Reality Changers, he quite likely would have been incarcerated along with many of his friends and been unable to help his mother support his family. The dialogue between Yanov and Lopez, Mentor and Mentee, was genuine and inspiring.  Chris Yanov is working with SDSVP to increase Reality Changers programs in ten more high schools and to create a for-profit entity to increase revenue and thereby  help reach more students like Chris Lopez. The energy and enthusiasm continued into the reception as Partners and guests stayed an additional hour after the event’s closing. It’s moments like these that fill SVP Partners with pride and demonstrate without a doubt that they ARE making a significant difference. Congratulations, Partners!

Many thanks to Partner Peg Eddy for her event chairmanship, dedication and sponsorship of Spotlights on Success.

Much appreciation to Partner Brad Kleban of The Color Bar for creating SVP’s fabulous video which debuted at the event. Click here to view.

Check out more event photos!