Thursday, January 13, 2011

CNN Selects Amy Stokes as First “CNN Hero” of 2011


Founder of Infinite Family recognized for establishing only mentoring program using weekly video conversations to foster long-term nurturing relationships


New York, NY – January 13, 2011 – CNN today kicked-off its fifth annual “CNN Heroes” campaign, which seeks to identify ordinary individuals who go to extraordinary lengths to serve others, by announcing that it has selected Amy Stokes, Founder and Executive Director of Infinite Family, as the first CNN Hero of 2011. Pioneering an innovative approach to mentoring, Amy has been recognized for her efforts to connect African children affected by HIV/AIDS and poverty with mentors around the world using video technology.

Through Infinite Family, an international organization she founded in 2006, Amy is dedicated to using technology as a way for adults around the world to nurture and support children challenged by HIV/AIDS and poverty who have little support and are faced with few choices. Without the appropriate life-skills and guidance, it would be nearly impossible for these children to grow up to be successful leaders of their families, their communities, and their countries.

By providing such key resources and support networks, Infinite Family inspires and motivates these children, allowing them to build the confidence, skills and global perspective that promote success. Today, early evaluations point to children’s clear gains in English, computer literacy, self-confidence, conflict resolution and problem solving skills. In addition, Infinite Family mentors report a uniquely inspiring experience and seek greater involvement. To learn more about Infinite Family and how you can become involved, please visit the newly-re-launched website at www.infinitefamily.org.

To read more about Amy and her work, please visit her dedicated profile page on CNNHeroes.com. A special broadcast tribute, “2011 CNN Heroes: Amy Stokes,” will also be airing according to the following schedule, breaking news contingent (please note that all times given are Eastern Standard Time):

Friday, January 14:
CNN: (*8a likely) 2pm
HLN: 6:30am, 6pm (*8p likely)
CNNi: 2a, 7a, 7p

Saturday, January 15:
CNN: 3p, 10p
HLN: 2p

Monday, January 17:
CNN en Espanol: 7p (more airs possible)


About CNN Heroes
CNN Heroes is a multiplatform campaign that shines a spotlight on everyday people who are changing the world. In 2010, the campaign received over 10,000 submissions from more than 100 countries. The Top 10 CNN Heroes will be selected later in the year by an esteemed Blue Ribbon Panel, which in 2010 included the likes of Muhammad Ali, Sir Richard Branson, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges and Ricky Martin, among other humanitarians. More information on CNN Heroes, please visit: http://www.CNNHeroes.com.


About Infinite Family
Infinite Family is an international organization that connects African children affected by HIV/AIDS and poverty, one on one, with mentors from around the world through video technology.  Via webcams, computers, and a secure, interactive internet platform, caring adults around the world see and speak weekly with their “Net Buddies,” motivating them to define and work toward their goals and helping them learn academic, technology and life skills. It starts with a face-to-face weekly conversation through the computer, but quickly becomes so much more. The impact of these relationships is profound on both ends of the relationship, expanding interest in all things South African through its mentor base in five countries, including South Africa, and across the U.S.

Infinite Family NGO partners include group homes and after-school programs with outreach to Berea, Alexandra and Soweto townships and informal settlements.  Early evaluations point to children’s clear gains in English, computer literacy, self-confidence, conflict resolution and problem solving skills. In addition, Infinite Family mentors report a uniquely inspiring experience and seek greater involvement.

Infinite Family is a 501c3 charity. All donations are fully tax-deductible. To learn more, please visit the Infinite Family website at: http://www.infinitefamily.org.

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