I recently chatted with Sara Jones, senior vice president and general manager of Joico who is receiving the 2011 Spirit of Life Award from City of Hope Hospital and research center.

City of Hope, a world renown facility, which treats and researches cancer and other life threatening illnesses, is a cause near and dear to the heart of the professional salon industry, which has generously supported this institution for years.

Sara has served on the council for City of Hope and has been involved in support and fundraising activities. Still, she was surprised, honored and humbled when she found out almost a year ago that she would receive the 2011 Spirit of Life Award .

Her campaign will support a broad spectrum of women’s cancer issues. “Women are hit with multiple forms of cancer: breast, lung, ovarian and others,” says Sara. “City of Hope has made outstanding strides in all these areas.”

Of course, she adds that she was also inspired by the fact that so many salon professionals and their clients are women and it is a perfect program for our industry.

There are many ways to get onboard and help with the cause—journal advertising, ticket sales, a social media fundraiser and even more—Two exciting new programs this year include a glamour suite supplied with volunteer professionals and donated products and an after party. Purchase of glamour suite services or tickets to the after party will also benefit city of Hope.

It’s best to hear Sara tell about her program and the Spirit of Life gala in her own words. Click here to listen to the podcast.

For more information on the Spirit of Life City of Hope event, visit probeauty.org.