The success of the Children's Defense Fund was measured in glowing example at the non-profit's fundraiser at the Hilton Americas-Houston where practicing attorney Moises Cedillos gave a testimonial that earned a standing ovation and cheering from the 300 attending.
Cedillos is past recipient a Children's Defense Fund Beat the Odds scholarship, given annually to deserving high school seniors who have succeeded academically despite huge obstacles in their daily lives. He credited his success to CDF and its Beat the Odds program.
Five scholarships were handed out at the luncheon that raised more than $215,000. The awards were presented by event chairs Arvia Few and Ileana and Michael Trevino and scholarship sponsors Tina Bentsen and the Bentsen family, the Friedman Foundation, Morton Cohn and Ann and Kenny Friedman.
Special guest speaker was Marian Wright Edelman, CDF president and lifelong advocate for disadvantaged children.
Supporters included CDF Texas advisory board chair Lan Bentsen and Adele Bentsen, Lori Johnson, Regina Rogers, Cyndy Garza Roberts, Gloria Bounds, Philamena and Arthur Baird, Lindsay Holstead, Kirby McCool, Courtney Hopson, Anita Smith, Melanie Lawson, John Guess Jr. and the Rev. Bill Lawson.
