Paul Mitchell Schools Show Support for Leeza’s Places
About thirty Paul Mitchell Schools from across the country are spending the eight weeks up until April 24 to help raise money both for “Leeza’s Place” and “The Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation.”
The Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation exists for one simple reason: to give love, hope, and support to those who need it most—those who oftentimes do not speak up for themselves and instead live in fear, isolation, and desperation due to illnesses not many fully understand. The Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation provides educational experiences to new salon professionals—experiences they probably would not otherwise have for many years to come. No fanfare. No fuss. Just a plane ticket, a hotel room, money for expenses, and tuition dollars so these passionate individuals can be welcomed early into the industry that has the biggest heart, and the widest open arms, of any profession we know.
Each school had a goal to raise a minimum of $10,000, through all sorts of activities including cut-a-thons, bake sales, raffles, car washes and donation requests. Last year the schools raised a total of $180,000.
On April 24, a celebration of the efforts of those schools will take place at the Four Seasons Hotel in Newport Beach, California for 300 guests. Being attended by all the participating Paul Mitchell School Owners, the dinner will be hosted by Leeza Gibbons and Paul Mitchell haircare CEO John Paul DeJoria. The evening will raise an additional $20,000, and promises to be an amazing celebration, with a special music performance by America’s piano sensation Jim Brickman. The event sponsors are: John Paul Mitchell Systems, Guthy-Renker and The Ratner Companies.
To quote Leeza Gibbons:
"I have never seen anything like the energy and commitment of the Paul Mitchell team! It is so powerful to see the ideas they come up with to raise money and awareness."
"Our two foundations are similar in that they give voice to two people who wanted their lives to matter...my mother and Andrew Gomez were both well-loved people who never got to shine as brightly as they wanted."
"My mom would be so excited to know that her love and spirit are being used in this way. She understood (as I do!) that the beauty business is prime for transformation. There is great power in the moment of change...we want to change the way those newly diagnosed with memory disorder are treated. We want to empower them and offer education and energy for them along with their caregivers."
"All of us at Leeza's Place are honored to be part of this effort along with the Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation. Andrews mom and dad felt like I did after seeing how much energy and effort has gone into the event...simply overjoyed! It is beyond impressive and we are extremely grateful."