For bringing the issue of domestic violence to the forefront in their "Yesterday' video, the Jenesse Center for domestic violence intervention will honor Mary Mary at the Silver Rose Gala on March 25.

The Jenesse Center was featured as a place of refuge in the provocative video which was directed by Felicia Henderson (Executive producer of Soul Food the series) who was invited to do the video by Jenesse board member Vida Spears (creator of Moesha.)

In a press release about the event Jenesse Executive Director Karen Earl commented:

"We couldn't be more pleased that Felecia and Mary Mary decided to use domestic violence as the theme for their wonderful video. The huge success of 'Yesterday' from such a credible source as Mary Mary widened our circle by bringing the issue national and international attention. And, it tied directly into a religious initiative that Jenesse has had in place since 1999 where we created an educational program and workbook using scripture and biblical principles entitled 'Domestic Violence: Its Roots and Spiritual Cure' designed as a tool to help church leadership work with families in crisis caused by domestic violence and related issues."

Henderson is thrilled that Jenesse is honoring their work continues the release.

"Because mothers are usually the primary caretakers of our children, it is so important that women are nurtured, protected and supported," she said. "The tender and loving manner in which Karen Earl and her team does this work is nothing short of miraculous. And, if this music video inspires one woman to leave an abusive relationship, I will be thankful to have been a tiny, little piece of the amazing work being done at Jenesse Center."

Gala entertainment will be provided by another gospel great, Hezekiah Walker and LFC, as well as electronic violinist extraordinaire, Karen Briggs. Actor William Allen Young will serve as Master of Ceremony for the event, with Verizon and Darden Restaurants, Inc. as primary gala sponsors.

Saluting those who have dedicated their time and resources to ensure that Jenesse continues to provide stellar services to its clients, under the theme, "Circle of Excellence" the 2007 Silver Rose Gala also will honor Darden Restaurants, Inc. with its Giving Back-Corporate Champions Award; Charisse Bremond, president, Brotherhood Crusade and Crystal Hayling, president, Blue Shield of California with its Compassionate Philanthropy awards; and both Assemblymember Karen Bass (D., 47th) and Supervisor Yvonne Brathwaite Burke, (D., 2nd) for Public Policy and Implementation; Campbell Hall and Harvard-Westlake schools will be honored; and for "Personal Commitment," employees of Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.; Derek and Stephanie Richardson's "Why Can't We Make A Difference Foundation;" Attorney Lisa Pierson Weinberger who provides free legal services; and Allstate agent, Giselle Zuluaga who secured grants to promote financial literacy for Jenesse clients will all be saluted.

For additional information on Jenesse Center, Inc. or its March 25th Silver Rose Gala, please call 323.299.9496 or visit their website
at http://www.jenesse.org.