How We Began
After watching Dateline NBC, where an American doctor was buying young children in Cambodia for sex, Remi (Founder/President of the "Will Santa Find Me?" Foundation) knew her foundation had to help these precious children from being sold into child sex slavery. In 2006 the newest division of our nonprofit was formed—Hopes & Dreams International. This division initially started out empowering families in Cambodia. To prevent the sale of their children, we provided food, shelter, and the opportunity to become self-sufficient. We sent several girls to learn the trade of cosmetology or sewing.
While helping families in Cambodia, a vision appeared to Remi to build a Healing Center, the first of its kind, in America for sex trafficked children. The question was how these children in Cambodia would be brought to a Healing Center in America. "How God?" asked Remi. It was like a song stuck in her head, "Superman is coming".
One year later enters Superman! In 2007, we had the pleasure of meeting actor Dean Cain, Superman from the TV show, "Lois and Clark". He introduced us to the real life Superman Rambo! This amazing team has rescued over 50 American children and hundreds of others. We soon discovered this horrific crime was happening right here in America to our precious children, as young as three years old. We are now in the initial stages of creating a unique Healing Center in the United States. We have found property on the East Coast and the West Coast.
Board of Directors/Advisors
Hopes & Dreams International is managed and run by a dedicated team of individuals, Remi and Sherri, and is overseen by a Board of Directors/Advisors.
Our mission is to rescue, heal, and keep hopes and dreams alive for young American children (as little as three years old) who are kidnapped and sold into the dark horrific world of child sex trafficking.
Remi-CEO/Founder
Prior to founding WSFM, Remi worked for St. Francis and Hartford Hospital as a bi-lingual social worker in Connecticut with a focus on pediatrics. In addition, she served as a social worker in the educational school system handling issues such as child abuse, incest and neglect. She also planned and implemented several projects including decorating and gardening throughout the school district. Remi and her oldest son spent several years modeling in NY, CT, and Boston. Her most rewarding job was being a stay at home mom and taking care of her two boys. Her main goal is to pursue philanthropy and to serve as a child's advocate. Remi holds a bachelor's degree in language arts from the University of Connecticut. She also studied abroad at the University of Valencia, Spain. Remi received the "Everyday Hero Award" for December 2007 by WSFB Channel 3 and a hero nomination award for the American Red Cross in 2009.
Sherri
Sherri graduated from Fairfield University, with a bachelor of arts degree in psychology and a masters degree in special education. She taught in the Connecticut school district for several years. Sherri also owned and operated a Sylvan Learning Center for 8 years, developing individual learning programs to meet specific student needs. Sherri has two children and has always been an active mother, volunteering in the schools, as well as, the community. Sherri has a love for helping children with learning differences who struggle with academics and emotional issues. She focuses on bringing children hope so they can begin to believe in themselves despite their past struggles.
Remi and Sherri’s backgrounds in social work and education have become instrumental in the purpose behind The “Will Santa Find Me?” Foundation. Their passion touches people’s hearts inspiring others to keep the “Hopes and Dreams” alive for suffering children. Together they are the heart and soul of the Foundation.
Jeff
Jeff is a partner in J.H. Cohn, Glastonbury, CT. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and also holds the credentials of Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) and Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA). He specializes in large commercial audit and review engagements, as well as other accounting services. Jeff has extensive experience in forensic accounting, internal controls and fraud prevention. He received a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration/Accounting and his professional and community affiliations include: the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. Jeff's financial background is exactly what a non-profit foundation needs to keep it's accounting in checks and balance.
Anne
Anne is a licensed Electrologist, and has owned and operated her own business for over 20 years. She has been involved with WSFM for over 10 years and took on the position of Secretary in 2001. She has been a great support for the Foundation.
Anne has been a member of the American Business Women Association for 25 years, and a Board Member of the Business Women Forum for 5 years.