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Lauren Book
Lauren Book was a victim and is now a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. Lauren’s childhood was abruptly stolen from her by the family’s female nanny. Turning tragedy into a commitment to the wellbeing, growth and development of youth, Lauren has started her own 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization called Lauren’s Kids. Under Book’s leadership, the nonprofit organization works to prevent sexual abuse and help survivors heal.
Lauren was born and raised in South Florida, where she resides and directs Lauren’s Kids. She graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Creative Writing, and a Master’s degree in Community Psychology and Social Change. Lauren’s Kids is a Florida-based organization aimed at preventing sexual abuse through awareness, education and advocacy while helping survivors heal with guidance and support. The organization educates adults and children about sexual abuse topics through a kindergarten curriculum called Safer, Smarter Kids.
Lauren’s Kids also operates a 24-hour hotline that provides crisis counseling and referral services for victims. The Lauren’s Kids Foundation recently announced the launch of its new specialty license plate, unveiling a design created by internationally acclaimed artist Romero Britto to focus attention on child sexual abuse prevention. The plate, titled “Love and Healing” will be a symbol of hope for the 42 million survivors. Please visit www.LaurensKids.org for more information and to pre-order your plate TODAY!
Armed with the knowledge that 95 percent of sexual abuse is preventable through education and awareness, Book is committed to turning her horrific personal experience into a mission for good. “Nothing is more important than keeping Florida’s innocent children safe, and through the sale of these license plates we will be able to greatly expand our efforts,” says Book. “This presents an opportunity for others not only to contribute to the cause and show support, but to serve as rolling ‘billboards’ and raise awareness within their communities.” Before production can begin, the Lauren’s Kids foundation is required by law to pre-sell 1,000 vouchers. The pre-sale voucher fee is $35.50 to reserve the plate, which will be applied to the plate purchase. Proceeds will support Lauren’s Kids’ education and awareness programs.
Lauren has recently been honored as one of L’Oreal’s 2013 Women of Worth. Please visit www.womenofworth.com to vote for Lauren and help her raise $25,000 for Lauren’s Kids.