Local author and financial advisor Melanie D. Perry is donating $1 per sale of her children’s book, Jonathan and Geneva: The Adventures of Zeallionaire Kids, to Hillsides. Her goal is to raise $5,000 for the Pasadena-headquartered charity that serves children and families throughout Los Angeles County.
“I am very thankful for Melanie’s generosity, which will help support Hillsides key programs and services. I am also thankful that children will get a chance to learn the basics of money management through her very entertaining and informative book,” said Hillsides chief executive officer, Joseph M. Costa.
Available in English and Spanish, The Adventures of Zeallionaire Kids is the first in a series developed to inspire children to convert personal talents and ideas into profitable businesses ventures. Jonathan and Geneva, the protagonists of the story, experience obstacles that entrepreneurs typically face when the two children decide to launch a cookie business.
Perry plans on publishing a total of seven books in the series, each book incorporating one core financial concept of launching a successful business. “The earlier we start teaching fundamentals of money management and investments, the better off our children – and all of us -- will be,” she said.
Perry decided to donate a portion of the book proceeds because “I believe in giving back and in Hillsides,” she said. She also gives back with her time and talents. In 2013, she conducted an eight-week financial workshop for youth in Hillsides Youth Moving On program, which provides former foster care and probation youth affordable quality housing and other support services. She also mentors Hillsides youth, helping them create and implement a budget.
Perry has been committed to empowering people of all ages to employ wisdom and financial knowledge to create sustainable wealth since 1999. The Adventures of Zeallionaire Kids is her second book. Her first was aimed at financial literacy for adults. The book retails for $11.99. To purchase a copy, please visit www.Zeallionaire.com. Please write “Hillsides” as the promotional code.
Hillsides is a premier provider dedicated to improving the overall well-being and functioning of children, youth, and families in need. To learn more about Hillsides, please visit www.hillsides.org.
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CONTACT: Marisol Barrios
Office: (323) 543-2800 ext. 128
Cell 310 713-8567
E-mail: mbarrios@hillsides.org
