There are few things in life as important for a Latina girl as her quinceañera. For many, this is easily accomplished, since they are surrounded by their family and friends who are willing to spend money, time and effort to make it happen. But for the six girls from the foster care system who couldn’t hold their own without the help of Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services and Quinceanera.com, this dream was one that they never thought would come true.
Sienni Puentes, Jennifer Rivas, Angel Domínguez, Crystal Ramirez, Jennifer Rivas, María Jiménez
However, on Saturday March 28, the six girls shared a unique event with friends, their foster family, and a large number of business donors supporting the effort. Thanks to all of them the event did not miss anything. There was food in large quantities with a tasty menu, live entertainment provided by Jesus Mendoza and Pedro Rivera, a DJ to liven up the party, and a small religious ceremony celebrated by Father Michael Rocha.
Maria Jiménez, one of the beautiful honorees.
“I feel excited and inspired,” said one of the chosen six, María Jimenez. Having been born with a hearing impairment, María expresses gratitude and asserts that, “the fact that life has been complicated makes this so special.” María also took the opportunity to send a message of encouragement to other girls in foster care. “Fight for your dreams and always be positive.”
Fernanda Juarez looked stunning with princess style dress.
Fernanda Juárez, another radiant quinceañera honoree, was overwhelmed with emotion. Dressed beautifully with her chamberlain at her side, Fernanda had this to say: “I never imagined something like this. It’s a thrill. I am thankful for the privilege of being able to host my quinceañera with the help of the Foster Care system. It has given me many opportunities.”
Siennie Puentes plans to pursue a career in nursing.
Another of the girls who will never forget her celebration was Sieni Bridges, who could not help but admire her stunning pink dress while she thanked all who made her big party come true. “I am really thankful to my foster parents and my social worker for remembering how important it is for me to celebrate a quinceañera.” Sieni also shared her other great dream: to become a lawyer and be able to defend low-income children.
Spontaneous and very energetic, Crystal Ramirez.
Crystal Ramirez was the only one wearing red, a color that perfectly reflected her mood. “I’m happy and excited to be one of the protagonists of an unforgettable party like this.” She is also determined to fight for her future and encourages the rest of the girls to do what they like in life. “I love sports, so I’m going to study and become a coach.”
Beautiful Jennifer Rivas loves to spend time with her older sister and look up to her.
Joy could also be seen into the face of Jennifer Rivas. “I never thought I would have such a party, so when I was dressed in blue, on the arm of my Chamberlain, I finally felt it was true.” Then, she talked about her future, and her great desire to become an entertainment reporter, “a dream for which I will fight from today.”
Angel Domínguez loves to dance and is known for her positive attitude.
The last one to appear with a big white dress was Angel Dominguez, on the arm of her chamberlain and glowing. “I am very happy to have this party and I thank all the sponsors for their support and supporting our cause.”
Other highlights and surprises for the Quinceañeras
Held at the Plaza de Cultura y Artes in Los Angeles, the event also included Martha de la Torre, president and co-founder of El Clasificado, the company that owns Quinceanera.com, who considered the girls as “family.” Taken aback by the inspirational stories of these six young quinceañeras in foster care, Martha felt honored to be a part of the ceremonies of such brave individuals whose “serenity to accept the things they cannot change, and the courage to change what they can with a smile and optimism” was very honorable.
Pedro Rivera, Father of the legendary Jenni Rivera.
Philip L. Browning, director of Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services, also expressed his satisfaction with the event as a “demonstration of affection from people working hard to make the lives of others better.”
Emcee and TV anchor, Stephanie Himonidis
Enlivening the event, emcee Stephanie Himonidis, also known as Chiquibaby, helped keep the party running smoothly while reminding attendees of the contributions who helped make the celebration possible. These gracious contributions came from Luna’s Bridal, Beautiful Cosmetics, Marissa’s Cake, Friar Tux, Carlton Hair Salon, and Telic Footwear, amongst others.
Meanwhile, Christine Devine, news anchor of the Fox 11 News “Wednesday Child” segment for foster care children, graced the event with her presence as she encouraged the Quinceañeras to “embrace their story and go out into the world to make a difference. That is the goal after all.”
Check out the photo gallery of the Quinceañeras here.