Tea with Katie Rose: ‘It is Important For Everyone, Children Especially, to Have a Support System’
Known for her signature pink hair, vintage/bohemian/goth style (depending on the day), and her love of Disney and Sailor Moon, Katie Rose is a self-proclaimed “tender soul lost in the expanse of a lonely sea with whimsical romantic vibes.” Katie (@itsakatierose) is a social influencer with nearly 90k Instagram followers and resides in Southern California with her boyfriend, Mark, and their precious pooch, Bogart. A believer in using her platform to raise awareness for marginalized communities, Katie does not hesitate to re-share important information or the personal perspectives of others.
We were so grateful Katie decided to attend the Children’s Foundation of America’s first-annual ChariTea Fundraiser in May 2022 to support children in need during National Foster Care Month. Katie donned a princess-like pink puff sleeve dress by Selkie, pearl accessories, sheer mid-length gloves, and Alice in Wonderland teacup heeled shoes by UK brand, Irregular Choice.
It doesn’t take much Instagram sleuthing to see she is a big fan of tea. “I love tea parties because of the socializing,” Katie said. “You get to put down your phone and really interact with others.”
She enjoyed the “jampacked” smoked salmon sandwiches from Cutting Edge Catering along with the blueberry herbal selection provided by Summit Tea. “It was a perfect combo!”
“The ambiance was so welcoming! The venue was beautiful with old trees and so much greenery! The tea set up was so unique with magical looking flower arrangements at every table,” Katie said. “I loved how everyone was dressed to impress! And some were even color-coordinated! So many lovely hats too! I really loved how the tea cups at the tables were all different. It gave an Alice in Wonderland feel.” However, Katie’s favorite part of the event was the people.
“I loved meeting so many amazing women that do so much for our community,” she said. “It was really moving.” She also enjoyed learning about CFA’s programs and the support offered to children affected by abuse, neglect, or abandonment.
“I learned that CFA has many programs to help support children that include mental health programs, which I feel is so important,” Katie said. “What struck me the most was learning that CFA is 100% volunteer run!” Her key takeaway was “how much everyone cares about what they do.” Katie appreciated that everyone seemed passionate about the achievements of others, as the theme of many of the speakers was focused on building each other up.
When asked why supporting children in need is important, Katie stated, “Victims of abuse, neglect, or abandonment often feel alone. It is important for everyone—children especially—to have a support system in place so they know that despite the tragedies, adversities, and injustices they have faced that they are not alone. It is important for these children to understand that whatever has happened to them was not their fault and to know that they are loved and cared for. It is important for these children to know that they are safe and there are people out there who care for them and want to help end their suffering. That’s why the work of the Children’s Foundation of America is so needed.”
Thank you so much to Katie Rose for attending our ChariTea and raising awareness about our important cause.
“I just want to thank Children’s Foundation of America for giving me a glimpse into what you all do,” Katie said. “I find it so important and I really do feel lucky to have attended this beautiful event. I had such an amazing time and met some awesome people.”
The next Children’s Foundation of America ChariTea Fundraiser will be held on May 6, 2023 in Claremont, CA. Our event sold out in 2022, so make sure to get your tickets early! See you there!
Jenelle Phillips, Director of Development
Jenelle oversees the day-to-day operations and staffing of the Foundation, which includes event planning, volunteer coordination, community outreach, marketing and donor relations. Above all, Jenelle’s focus is to identify and access resources in order to help children heal, learn and thrive. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from California State University Fullerton and is very involved in the community. She is active in her church and owns an art gallery. Her volunteer contributions to the community have been recognized by Senator Portantino, Assemblymember Holden and the Claremont Village Marketing Group.
Photography by Jacqueline Legazcue
Tea with Ehmandah Ramsey: ‘We Need to Do Our Part in Creating Awareness Through Information, Support and Giving’
Ehmandah Ramsey is a professional speaker, entrepreneur, and life coach specializing in soul care. She is a storyteller, mental health advocate and founder of She Stories, a storytelling and wellness community for women.
Ehmandah joined our event committee for the first annual Children’s Foundation of America ChariTea Fundraiser in May 2022 because she has a heart for foster youth and enjoys serving and giving back through events.
“It was a lovely afternoon filled with amazing décor and beautiful people. From the table settings to the attendees’ attire, it was high tea time,” Ehmandah said.
Her favorite parts of the event were the great table presentation, food and conversation. As the owner of her own mobile food business, Ehmandah said, “I love the art of plating.”
One of her main takeaways was amazement at the “powerful women represented and honored.” Children’s Foundation of America CEO, Cher Ofstedahl, was recognized as a Woman of Distinction by Assemblymember Chris Holden. Cher took the opportunity to invite Claremont Lincoln University President Dr. Lynn Priddy to speak and also presented donation checks for local charities while highlighting women in nonprofit leadership, including Tristin Harding at McKinley Children’s Center.
When asked why it is important to support children affected by abuse, neglect or abandonment, Ehmandah stated, “Children need support. As a community, we need to do our part in creating awareness through information, support and giving.”
Ehmandah wholeheartedly recommends the ChariTea Fundraiser to others, “It was an event for everyone and a marvelous way to gather and give back.”
We are so grateful to have the support of Ehmandah and the entire She Stories network for the past several years. Ehmandah’s parting message is to “own your story, find your path to healing and write your ending.” We love that!
The next Children’s Foundation of America ChariTea Fundraiser will be on May 6, 2023 in Claremont, CA. This event sells out, get your tickets early!
Jenelle Phillips, Director of Development
Jenelle oversees the day-to-day operations and staffing of the Foundation, which includes event planning, volunteer coordination, community outreach, marketing and donor relations. Above all, Jenelle’s focus is to identify and access resources in order to help children heal, learn and thrive. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from California State University Fullerton and is very involved in the community. She is active in her church and owns an art gallery. Her volunteer contributions to the community have been recognized by Senator Portantino, Assemblymember Holden and the Claremont Village Marketing Group.