Stearns Family Charitable Foundation Donates $100,000 to Canyon Acres Homes for Abused Children

Irvine, California, January 8, 2005---Today the Stearns Family Charitable Foundation presented a gift of $100,000 to Canyon Acres Children and Family Services at the starting line of the Southern California Half Marathon and 5K race where Canyon Acres was named as the event's benefiting charity. The gift was presented by Glenn and Mindy Stearns, founders of the Stearns Foundation, and accepted by Clete Menke, Executive Director of Canyon Acres just prior to the City of Irvine Mayor, Beth Krom, officially starting the races.

The Stearns companies, leaders in real estate, contracting and entertainment services, an important partner to Canyon Acres in the mission of helping at-risk children, were also the Presenting Sponsor of this Saturday's highly popular athletic event that attracts thousands of runners every year.

"We couldn't think of a better way to celebrate the New Year and Canyon Acres 25th Anniversary Year than presenting Canyon Acres with this gift for these special kids," said Glenn Stearns. "Mindy and I are truly blessed to have an opportunity to give these children new hope for many years ahead."

"It is with heartfelt appreciation to the Stearns Family Charitable Foundation that we accept this kind donation, said Clete Menke. "Partners like the Stearns and the Southern California Half Marathon and 5K, will truly make a difference in the lives of Canyon Acres' children."

Canyon Acres, celebrating 25 years of healing and caring for children, is known for its high quality homes, care and mental health services for abused, neglected, and emotionally troubled children. The largest and most intensive program is the Residential Treatment Center, or the "Ranch," which consists of three homes on a 4.6-acre parcel in Anaheim Hills. It is designed to provide a safe place for children to begin to stabilize emotionally and physically. A unique therapeutic horse program is also operated on site and is a proven method in sharing warmth and love with the kids. As the children heal and grow, they are able to transition into community-based or foster homes. Through a highly developed continuum of personalized care, the true hope for all of the children is that some day they will live in their own permanent families.

Glenn and Mindy Stearns are deeply moved by the children and the hope that is made possible through Canyon Acres. The couple, who recently won the grand prize on the TBS' TV show, "The Real Gilligan's Island", donated and matched all the winnings to the Stearns Family Charitable Foundation that helps disadvantaged children live to their full potential.

Today's event was hosted by the Woodbridge High School Athletic Boosters and included a Half Marathon, 5K Run, Kids 1.5K Lake Run, Awards Ceremonies, and an Expo-Fair.


About Stearns Family Charitable Foundation:

The Stearns Family Charitable Foundation, founded by Orange County's Glenn and Mindy Stearns, is dedicated to helping disadvantaged youth reach their full potential. The couple, who recently won the $250,000 prize on the TBS television show "The Real Gilligan's Island", donated all winnings to the Stearns Family Charitable Foundation that the Stearns companies generously matched.


About Canyon Acres:

Canyon Acres has been providing quality homes, care and mental services for abused, neglected and emotionally troubled children for 25 years. Canyon Acres gives children nurturing, treatment, and opportunities that they need to grow up in safe, loving, and stable families. Information is available at www.canyonacres.org.