Culver City Observer -

Last Wednesday the Culver City Education Foundation sponsored The Soul, Science & Culture of Hope presented by Kids at Hope founder Rick Miller and featuring award-winning author, screenwriter and poet Antwone Fisher.

Hundreds of parents, educators and community members listened as Miller explained the science supporting the Kids at Hope approach.

Research shows that the most important factor in a child's success is that child's sense of hope- the ability to envision success at life's four major destinations: Home & Family; Education & Career; Community & Service; and Hobbies & Recreation.

Miller explained that when we think of kids as being 'at risk,' we are putting them at a deficit. Instead Kids at Hope encourages parents, teachers and the other adults in children's lives to become 'treasure hunters,' people who make the extra effort to find the special qualities that exist in every child. Studies show that when children have that sort of positive, confidence-building connection with an adult they can achieve the future they envision.

At the core of the Kids at Hope strategy is the belief that all children are capable of success, no exceptions. The vision is for every child to be afforded the belief, guidance and encouragement that creates a sense of hope and optimism, supported by a course of action needed to experience success

Following Miller's presentation the audience heard Antwone Fisher recount the profoundly moving story of his life, beginning with his birth in a jail two months after his father's murder to the successful screenwriter, poet and advocate he is today. Near the end of his talk, Fisher explained how he came to write the screenplay that became the movie, Antwone Fisher, starring and directed by Denzel Washington.

In the final portion of the event clips from the film were used to illustrate the essential steps needed to uncover each person's treasure and build the bridges that lay the foundation for success.