Author Erin Merryn Named North Star Luncheon Speaker
By Isabella Castillo / Contributor
The nonprofit organization, Family Compass, announced that author, speaker, child abuse advocate, and activist Erin Merryn will be the guest speaker at its 7th Annual North Star Luncheon, presented by North Dallas Bank & Trust Co. (NDBT).
Merryn is an internationally recognized author, speaker, child abuse advocate, and activist. For six years of her childhood, she was a victim of sexual abuse, keeping her secret locked away in her childhood diary. Before graduating high school, Merryn turned her diary into a book called Stolen Innocence and has since published four more books.
“We are honored to have Erin Merryn share her story with us,” said Ona Foster, Family Compass CEO. “She has made it her mission to pass Erin’s Law in every state, a law that requires personal body safety taught in public schools annually. In the fight against child abuse and neglect, this work is vital to help children find their voice.”
Longstanding supporter and board member Toni McReynolds will receive the 2025 North Star Award to honor her consistent voice on the Family Compass board of directors and her staunch advocacy for children across the community.
The annual fundraiser, which raises awareness for child abuse prevention, will be held on Monday, April 28, 2025, at a local country club. Bianca Hernandez and Elisabeth McHugh will serve as co-chairs, with The Hoglund Foundation serving as honorary chair.
For more information regarding the North Star Luncheon, contact development@family-compass.org or visit https://family-compass.org/events/luncheon.