For many children, the chance to live a normal life is hindered by medical conditions they can't control. But organizations like Fresh Start Surgical Gifts are changing that.
Imagine getting the smile you've always dreamed of or being able to run and play without pain for the first time. That's the kind of magic Fresh Start brings to kids with physical deformities or injuries. It wouldn't be possible without events like the star-studded 32nd Annual Celebrity Golf Classic hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and sponsored by CALI Strong on March 10th and 11th, 2024 in San Diego.
Katia was born with microtia and Goldenhar Syndrome, which caused her ear to be underdeveloped and her face to be asymmetrical. Fresh Start provided Katia with multiple surgeries to reconstruct her ear and improve the symmetry of her face. Katia is now thriving in school and enjoys participating in dance.
This Isn't Just Golf – It's a Party with a Purpose
Get ready for an unforgettable experience! Celebrate in style at the Pre-Tournament Dinner on Sunday, March 10th. Think cocktails, auctions, and the chance to mingle with your favorite stars. Then, on Monday, March 11th, hit the beautiful courses at Morgan Run Club and Resort for an all-inclusive day of golf, great food, and an incredible atmosphere.
"I'm proud to host an event that makes such an impact and changes the lives of so many children,"
- Alfonso Ribeiro, Celebrity Host
Why CALI Strong Stepped Up
Both Jennifer and I were moved by the mission of Fresh Start Surgical Gifts when we heard the story of Daniel. A dog attacked Daniel as a child, which left him with significant facial injuries. His family couldn't afford the surgeries he needed, but Fresh Start Surgical Gifts stepped in and provided Daniel with multiple surgeries, scar revision, lodging, and food. Daniel is now one of their many success stories.
“One of our main goals from the inception of CALI Strong was to support organizations that improve the lives of our youth. I have been so impressed with not only the work they do but also the exceptional people behind it.”
- Jennifer Echeverria, Chairperson / Co-Founder of CALI Strong
Daniel's journey made us realize that Fresh Start isn't just about fixing what's broken. It's about giving kids the chance to feel whole again – to run, play, and smile without hesitation. That's the kind of fresh start every kid deserves.
At no cost whatsoever to patients, Fresh Start Surgical Gifts has:
- Helped 9,059 patients
- Provided 23,328 surgeries & related treatments
- Donated over $60 Million in medical care
That's why we're backing this year's Celebrity Classic. Fresh Start gives these kids hope; we want to be part of that. Kids like Daniel and Katia are incredibly resilient and deserve our support to live their lives without limits. Over the past three years, we've proudly donated $20,000 worth of gear and are committed to making even more of a difference.
Ways to help kids with medical needs?
This is your chance to step off the sidelines and join the fun that changes lives! Here's how:
- Donate: Give kids the opportunity to heal. https://www.freshstart.org/donate-page/
- Spread the Word: Tell your friends! Share the event online!
- Play Golf: Sign up for the tournament and experience it yourself! https://freshstartsg.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/2024SanDiegoCelebrityGolfClassic/tabid/1399375/Default.aspx
Fresh Start Surgical Gifts changes lives. With CALI Strong and YOU, they can give even more kids a fresh start.
Fresh Start Surgical Gifts Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Fresh Start Surgical Gifts?
Fresh Start Surgical Gifts is a national nonprofit that changes lives. They provide free reconstructive surgeries and related healthcare services to children with physical deformities caused by birth defects, accidents, abuse, or disease. Their mission is to allow these children to live healthier, happier lives.
"I'm incredibly humbled and proud to work with such an amazing organization that works tirelessly to change lives for children across the nation. It's so rewarding to work with these children, many for several years, and to see their transformations is remarkable," says Dr. Steven Cohen, who has been with the organization since their start in 1991. Steven Cohen, M.D., an internationally recognized, board-certified plastic surgeon, is considered one of the best plastic surgeons in America.
Is my donation to Fresh Start Surgical Gifts tax deductible?
Yes! Fresh Start Surgical Gifts is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which means donations made to them are tax-deductible in the United States.
https://www.freshstart.org/donate-page/
Where does my Fresh Start Surgical Gifts donation go?
100% of your donation goes to the Medical Program for patients. Nothing of your donation is spent on overhead expenses or administrative costs.
All of it goes towards:
- Patient Transportation
- Laboratory Fees
- Patient Outreach
- Radiology
- Pharmaceutical Supplies
- Clinic Rental
- Volunteer Outreach
- Medical Equipment
- Hospitalization Costs
- Patient Lodging
https://www.freshstart.org/about-us/financials/
What ages of children does Fresh Start serve?
They provide free reconstructive surgeries and related healthcare services to children and young adults from infancy to age 18. In some exceptional cases, they may also consider young adults up to age 25 on a case-by-case basis through a separate application process.
What types of surgeries does Fresh Start provide?
Here is a partial list of the life changing surgical procedures performed at Fresh Start Surgical Gifts:
- Microtia
- Scar Revisions
- Otoplasty
- Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
- Septo-Rhinoplasty
- Lefort I, II, III
- Mandibular and Maxillary Osteotomies
- Excisions of Lesions with or without Tissue Expanders
- Burn Contracture Procedures
- Polydactyly Hands and Feet
- Abbe Flap I and II
- Tongue Reduction
- Gynecomastia
- Poland Syndrome Reconstruction
- Strabismus, Canthoplasty, and Other Eye Procedures
- Treacher-Collins Syndrome Procedures
- Hemi Facial Microsomia Procedures
- Laser Procedures for Vascular Lesions
- Facial Hypoplasia Procedures
- Dental Procedures Resulting from Facial Deformities
- And More
About the Author: Jim Stroesser
Jim Stroesser has amassed 38 years of experience in global consumer branding across the sports, fashion, and entertainment industries. Starting his career as a tech rep, he ascended to CEO roles with some of the world's leading brands. As the Co-Founder and CEO of CALI Strong Inc., a direct-to-consumer sports brand based in San Diego, CA, Jim has led the company in producing premium apparel, footwear, equipment, and accessories.
His tenure as Owner/Partner at Converse is particularly noteworthy. Jim was pivotal in reviving the brand from bankruptcy in 2001, elevating its value from $120 million to $285 million, and playing a crucial role in its $305 million sale to Nike in 2003, marking one of the century's significant mergers and acquisitions.
Beyond Converse, Jim has held senior management positions at renowned companies such as Nike, Quiksilver, Oakley, LA Gear, Pony, and Adio. He is also actively involved in several boards of directors positions, including SDSI, led by Chairman Bill Walton, which focuses on mentoring companies and assisting in capital raising efforts.
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