Sometimes the issues are black and white

Hollywood came calling in the O.C. on behalf of abused local children at the 2006 Black and White Ball, benefiting Olive Crest Homes and Services.

The event was championed by handsome television star Benjamin Bratt, currently known as Lt. James Tisnewski on the NBC series “E-Ring.” Bratt served as master of ceremonies for the event, held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Irvine. More than 650 guests in black tie, including a large contingent of Newport-Mesa donors, paid $750 per couple and more to make a difference for Olive Crest kids. Net proceeds are expected to top $300,000.

Founded in 1973, Olive Crest Homes and Services is “dedicated to preventing child abuse, to treating and educating at-risk children and to preserving the family ? one life at a time.”

Co-chaired by Stephanie Byerly and John Melbon, both trustees of the Olive Crest organization, the evening was designed as a romantic, Moroccan-themed party. The Kids Next Door, a talented performance group, burst on the scene, 28 young performers outfitted in lavish Arabian-inspired costumes. The entertainers mixed with the crowd, checking out the silent auction set up in the Moroccan bazaar area of the event.

Singing a song entitled “I Still Believe in Miracles,” written by David Green, executive director of the California Conservatory of the Arts, the troupe delighted the large assemblage, who offering a healthy ovation for the entertainment and for the cause. “Performing this song at this event teaches these talented young people to use their gifts for charitable purposes,” Green said. He added, “It grounds them at this age so they can understand what their gifts are all about ? giving them the opportunity to use their voices for good.”

Co-chair Byerly welcomed the large crowd and introduced honoree Casey Reinhardt, who received the Chair for Youth award given by Olive Crest. Reinhardt has been a long-standing volunteer at the Olive Crest Homes, as well as a major donor through her Children’s Alliance for the Success and Education of Youth Foundation.

One of the highlights of the evening was the introduction of three Olive Crest children by host Bratt. The young people shared their personal journeys and the important role Olive Crest has played in their lives. Bratt told the crowd that a donation of $35 per month could sponsor a child at Olive Crest. To demonstrate support, patrons were requested to light a candle at their tables. The ballroom soon was aglow from end to end, and the emotional connection to the children was demonstrated and solidified by the light.

Additional honorees of the evening included David and Marcy McKenna, founder of the Lighthouse Guild of Olive Crest, which has sponsored numerous fundraisers over the years. Olive Crest founders Dr. Donald and Mrs. Lois Verleur were also recognized with loving applause. VIPs in the crowd included Sheriff Michael and Debbie Corona; Gaddi Vasquez; Duane and Kelly Roberts; and Robert and Carol Follman. Also in the crowd were distinguished patrons Sandra and Mike Grant, Tanya and Peter Van Helden, Trish Marshall, Eric Bezko, Mo Sanchez and Bob Curtis.

To find out more about Olive Crest, visit www.olivecrest.org.