At a reception at America’s Beauty Show (ABS), City of Hope formally introduced its 2014 Spirit of Life Award honoree Harlan Kirschner, The Kirschner Group, and invited everyone in the industry to join his campaign “Celebrating Cures” and rally behind the lifesaving work at City of Hope.

Nearly 100 industry notables gathered to learn more about the over 30 year partnership between City of Hope and the National Professional Salon Industry, a partnership that has raised millions in the fight against cancer and diabetes, as well as spread awareness to the industry.

 “The fact is that one in every two men and one in every three women will battle with cancer in their lifetime.” Harlan said. “My son in law is a cancer survivor and that my friends, gave me passion in the fight against cancer. Chances are that someone you know and care about deeply will struggle with cancer but we can make a difference.”

The “Celebrating Cures “campaign educates salon professionals about the lifesaving research at City of Hope and offers an opportunity for everyone to get involved. The campaign will raise funds through the Spirit of Life Award Gala, a tribute journal, an auction and individuals giving back in their own community through the online personal fundraising platform. More information on these activities is available online at www.cityofhope.org/salon.

 The National Professional Salon Industry recognizes industry leaders each year for their outstanding professional and philanthropic contributions at the City of Hope Spirit of Life Award Gala. One of the industry’s best networking events, to be held on July 12, 2014, at the Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, will include a hosted cocktail reception, delectable sit-down dinner and wonderful entertainment. To donate or register for the Spirit of Life Gala “Celebrating Cures”, please go to www.cityofhope.org/salon.

 In addition, plans are being made to remodel the Positive Image Center, a place on the City of Hope campus where both men and woman struggling with cancer, hair loss and other self esteem issues can go and receive professional beauty services. Belvedere and others in the industry have already committed to donating their time and product to make this a world class facility for patients.

www.cityofhope.org/salon.