December 20, 2018
Q & A with Holli Hines Easton
Children’s Rights celebrated the opening of its new Southeast office – located in space donated by law firm Hall Booth Smith, P.C. – by hosting an awards benefit in Atlanta on November 16. The event was a huge success, thanks to the efforts of a dynamo steering committee of local community leaders and advocates in Atlanta. Here we talk to committee member and co-chair of the benefit, Holli Hines Easton. Holli is managing director of BFG Marketing, a full-service advertising agency representing major brands including Coca-Cola and Progressive Insurance.
CR: What made you want to get involved with Children’s Rights?
A dear friend invited me to an introductory session with Children’s Rights staff, and I was just blown away by the severity of the problems kids face. It was an eye-opener. And the staff! So passionate and articulate. The meeting ran two hours and I didn’t want it to end.
CR: How does being a mother effect your perspective on child welfare?
I pray every night for my kids to be healthy, happy and safe. There are children out there who are not any of these. When my children can stomach the realities – and that will be soon – I will be introducing them to Children’s Rights. I want them to be aware. I want us involved as a family.
CR: Why is it so important for CR to have a strong presence in Georgia and the south?
I am not from the South, but I have lived here for a long time. I am proud to call it my home. But Georgia is in many ways a difficult place for young people. It ranks 42nd in state child welfare rankings nationwide. Atlanta airport is the busiest in the world, but it is also a major international hub for sex trafficking. Our public school system is the 35th worst in the country.
CR: What would you tell someone looking to get involved in Children’s Rights?
I’d tell them about the look on the faces of the people at our benefit as they learned about all the children who are not healthy, not happy, not safe. There were no devices out. No one spoke. Once you hear their stories and see what a difference Children’s Rights can make – I defy you to look away. I know I can’t.