FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 2, 2001
CONTACT: MAKEDA SMITH
TEL: (818) 848-6056 or (818) 890-2428

Californiadreamhomecontest.com Offers Opportunity to
Win a House and Change lives.

Los Angeles, CA - Claudia Woods is seriously committed when it comes to doing her part in an effort to make the world a better place. As the executive director of Changing Your World, a non profit organization that provides transitional housing and services to the homeless, she personally oversees two homes housing some 14 recently released parolees. In an effort to provide funding for her agency, while addressing homelessness and displacement, she is launching the California Dream Home Contest and giving away a house!

“Fifteen years ago, I found myself homeless and with a son after my husband abandoned me. Through education and self-motivation I have been able to turn my world around. It has always been my dream to assist those most deeply affected by issues of displacement, namely parolees as they are released from the prison system with often times no where to go. The California Dream Home Contest is my shot at making this a better world. I was looking for a creative fundraising idea when I was inspired by a similar contest on the Internet. As difficult as it is to part with this house, I knew it was something I had to do,” Woods explains. A home renovation enthusiast, Woods has been purchasing and renovating houses for the last five years.

Starting March 1, 2001, participants 18 years and older will have the opportunity to win a $140,000, three bedroom, two bathroom, dream home in scenic Lancaster, CA. A creative and original essay of no more than 500 words about HOW YOU COULD CHANGE THE WORLD, along with a $50.00 entry fee is what is required. Official rules and regulations can be accessed at http://www.californiadreamhomecontest.com or by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope to: California Dream Home Contest, 3760 Motor Avenue, #318, Los Angeles, CA 90034.

Every year, 500,000 men and women are released from either prison or jail with little more than the clothes on their backs. Two-thirds of these men and women will find themselves back in jail within three years. Changing Your World exists to stop this horrible statistic. By implementing reading, writing, and mathematics and computer skills programs for parolees, they are offered the opportunity to become productive members of society.

“A lot of my friends and family think I’m crazy for doing this, but I know that it has to be done. We all have to do our part to make this world a better place, and I am confident that blessings have a snowball effect. Someone will win the home, and my guys will eventually benefit and move on into homes of their own,” cites Woods.

For additional information, and photos of the dream home, hit the website at www.californiadreamhomecontest.com. Then enter to win!