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Congratulations to HPP Founder and Executive Director Martha Ryan, who was chosen to be a recipient of the prestigious 2011 James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award. In recognition of her work to advance effective and innovative solutions to critical issues facing California, Martha received 5,000 to be contributed to HPP, plus additional resources to share proven approaches with policymakers and practitioners in the field. She will join four other Leadership Award recipients on March 3 at a luncheon in Sacramento with elected and appointed state officials. 

The James Irvine Foundation is a private, nonprofit grantmaking foundation dedicated to expanding opportunity for the people of California to participate in a vibrant, successful and inclusive society. The Foundation’s grantmaking focuses on three program areas:  Arts, California Democracy and Youth. Since 1937, the Foundation has provided over billion in grants to more than 3,000 nonprofit organizations throughout California. With .5 billion in assets, the Foundation made grants of million in 2010 for the people of California.

Homeless Prenatal Program

Kate Ryan, mother of HPP Founder & Executive Director Martha Ryan, with her granddaughter

In a very touching presentation on Aug. 3, HPP’s staff celebrated Founder & Executive Director Martha Ryan in commemoration of the organization’s 20^th anniversary by establishing the Kate Ryan Fund, named in honor of one of HPP’s longest and strongest advocates– Martha’s mother. Supporters will have the opportunity to celebrate Martha and HPP’s work with a gift to the fund.

It will act as a discretionary fund to support those most in need during emergency situations, such as a homeless family with children who cannot get into a shelter due to overcrowded conditions, a pregnant woman fleeing a battered home, or children who need shoes because their families cannot afford them.

“The staff’s extremely thoughtful and kind act directly reflects who they are to me,” Martha said. “I am so touched that the staff have chosen to name this fund in honor of my mother. From the beginning of this program, she has been one of HPP’s strongest supporters. She not only raised a family of 13, but all her life she has helped the disadvantaged by volunteering. She has also taken special care to support friends and always thinks of others before herself.”

To celebrate Martha and HPP’s work and contribute to the Kate Ryan Fund, you may donate online or send a check made out to the Homeless Prenatal Program and designating the Kate Ryan Fund.

HPP is delighted that future generations of mothers and children will experience the wisdom and love of a very special mother and daughter. Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness and commitment to helping HPP make a difference in the lives of so many in our community.

Homeless Prenatal Program

On June 9, HPP Founder & Executive Director Martha Ryan was honored as one of two 2010 “Art of Activism” award recipients given by the Redford Center. Founded by Oscar award-winning actor Robert Redford, the Redford Center focuses on integrating activism, policy, scholarship and community leadership to improve our world with creative strategies for change. The “Art of Activism” award celebrates the work of extraordinary leaders who are making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Actress and Voto Latino founder Rosario Dawson hosted the award ceremony at the Kabuki Theater in San Francisco. Dawson discussed the motivations and strategies behind her efforts to fight for voter engagement and education, to support disaster relief and refugees, and to use her voice to battle poverty, violence, and AIDS. The evening’s program included a moderated, action-oriented discussion between Rosario, Redford Center Executive Director Lee Bycel, the audience, and the selected Art of Activism honorees. 

Please click here to view a slideshow of the event.

Snapshots in Action

Actress & Event Host Rosario Dawson with Art of Activism honorees Martha Ryan & James Berk

HPP Founder & Executive Director Martha Ryan & Family

Actress Rosario Dawson & Redford Center Executive Director Lee Bycel

Homeless Prenatal Program