The annual Spirit of Life Award, presented by City of Hope to someone in the beauty industry who exemplifies generosity and an ability to inspire others to make a difference in the world, was presented this evening to the 2014 honoree, Harlan Kirschner, founder of The Kirschner Group, an industry manufacturer's representative group.
Currently a member of the board of directors for Professional Beauty Association (Cosmoprof), chairman of the Manufacturer Leadership Council and treasurer for the Western Buying Conference, Kirschner organized "Celebrating Cures', a lively gathering of 800 attendees who gathered at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino to enjoy a cocktail reception, silent auction, an automobile raffle, dinner, awards presentation and a performance by Grammy winner Michael Bolton.
Acting as emcees for the evening were past Spirit of Life honorees John Heffner (DryBar) and Sara Jones (Joico/ISO) and next year's honoree, Steve Goddard (Pravana). A moving testament to the devastating impact of cancer, the power of hope and the importance of early detection and adequate treatment was offered by Kirschner's son-in-law Chris Crellin. He was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 15.Today, he is married to Bethany Kirschner Crellin and is father to their newborn son, Carter.
Dave Monday, the Field Sales Manager for Beauty Systems Group West was named "Citizen of the Year" by City of Hope for his dedication to fundraising.
In addition, it was announced that with the support of Belvedere, the City of Hope Positive Image Center--an on-site salon for cancer patients--would be given a makeover.
Upon being presented his award, Kirschner thanked his friends, his family, and the gathering of fellow beauty industry professionals. "This evening is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. And the folks in this room are some of the most caring and compassionate in the world. It takes a village and in our industry, that is what we have, Your contribution tonite may prolong or save someone's life."
To learn more about City of Hope visit http://www.cityofhope.org/national-professional-salon-industry-spirit-of-life
For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.