Dave Pelzer
Dave Pelzer has experienced a truly extraordinary life. He nearly died several times at the hands of his mentally disturbed, alcoholic mother. Years later it was determined that Dave's case was identified as one of the most gruesome and extreme cases of child abuse in California's then history. At age 12, Dave was finally rescued and placed in a series of foster homes until he enlisted in the U. S. Airforce at age 18. Even with all that was against him, Dave was determined to better himself ... no matter what the odds.
Some of Dave's distinctive accomplishments have been recognized through a number of awards, as well as personal commendations from Presidents Reagan, Bush, Clinton, and Geroge W. Bush. His incredible life story has been featured on many popular television talk shows. Dave's first book, "A Child Called 'It' ... One Child's Courage to Survive" and his fourth book, "Help Yourself ... Finding Hope, Courage, and Happiness" have both been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. Dave is one of the only authors to have four books simultaneously on the New York Times Best Sellers List and the only author to have four #1 International Best Sellers. His latest book, "The Privilege of Youth ... A Teenager's Story of Longing for Acceptance and Friendship" was published in January 2004. It's a 1970's heartfelt yet humorous timepiece of teenage wonderment and adventure and was an instant New York Times and International Best Seller.
Dave is a living testament of a self-made man who, as an optimist, strongly exudes resilience, service to mankind, personal responsibility, and faith in humanity. Dave's unique and intriguing outlook on life, coupled with his "Robin Williams"-like wit and sense of humor, entertain and encourage all of us to truly commit to overcome any challenge, while living life to its fullest. For over two decades, Dave has dedicated his life helping others . . . to help themselves. While many make excuses and seem pessimistic, Dave carries the banner in a nation where opportunities are endless in what he calls "The Greatness of America." And through his work, you will too.
MOST REQUESTED TOPIC:
HELP YOURSELF
(This truly inspirational presentation is geared for corporate audiences and the general public.)
"Help Yourself" is based on the New York Times Business Best Seller and international best-selling book. By taking control, being accountable, and having the courage to follow through with a sense of dignity on a daily basis, "Help Yourself" places a strong emphasis on moving beyond a painful history and innumerable setbacks.
Having survived a life-threatening childhood, Dave developed a strategy of turning adversity into triumph. Harnessing the adapted skills from his past, Dave teaches these techniques that have helped him to become the acclaimed self-made businessman and humanitarian he is today.
A majority of individuals have no idea why life has not "provided" for them or what they desire out of life. Dave stresses getting rid of life's garbage and developing clear obtainable objectives, while maintaining a realistic sense of fulfillment.
When it comes to conquering insurmountable odds and becoming stronger from the challenge, no one knows more than Dave Pelzer. While interweaving a careful balance of imperative "real life" information and a captivating sense of humor in a storytelling forum, Dave reenergizes the heart and challenges the human spirit in the unique presentation of "Help Yourself."
"Take the Time and Energy to Truly Invest in Your Most Important Asset: Yourself."
(Suggested Program Length: 45 minutes to 2 hours)
PROGRAMS FOR SCHOOLS, EDUCATORS, SOCIAL SERVICES, ETC:
The Real Heroes
(for educators, social services, human services, and general public audiences)
This highly emotional presentation pays tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to making a difference in the life of a child, while at the same time educating the general public of the challenges faced by those in their chosen field. Dave carefully weaves the story of how his life was saved by teachers, a school nurse, the police department, social services, and the foster care system - The Real Heroes.
The Most Important Person
(for middle and high school students, as well as children in foster care and other "youth-at-risk" groups)
To date, Dave has spoken to over 1600 schools and other youth organizations to hundreds of thousands of young people. His message is a combination of humor and pertinent real life information in a storytelling forum. It leaves a lasting impression on the audience, encouraging personal responsibility and resilience, and enabling them to be The Most Important Person.
BOOKS BY DAVE PELZER:
A Child Called 'It' ... One Child's Courage to Survive
The Lost Boy
A Man Named Dave
Help Yourself Finding Hope, Courage, and Happiness
The Privilege of Youth A Teenager's Story of Longing for Acceptance and Friendship
Dave Pelzer has experienced a truly extraordinary life. He nearly died several times at the hands of his mentally disturbed, alcoholic mother. Years later it was determined that Dave's case was identified as one of the most gruesome and extreme cases of child abuse in California's then history. At age 12, Dave was finally rescued and placed in a series of foster homes until he enlisted in the U. S. Airforce at age 18. Even with all that was against him, Dave was determined to better himself ... no matter what the odds.
Some of Dave's distinctive accomplishments have been recognized through a number of awards, as well as personal commendations from Presidents Reagan, Bush, Clinton, and Geroge W. Bush. His incredible life story has been featured on many popular television talk shows. Dave's first book, "A Child Called 'It' ... One Child's Courage to Survive" and his fourth book, "Help Yourself ... Finding Hope, Courage, and Happiness" have both been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. Dave is one of the only authors to have four books simultaneously on the New York Times Best Sellers List and the only author to have four #1 International Best Sellers. His latest book, "The Privilege of Youth ... A Teenager's Story of Longing for Acceptance and Friendship" was published in January 2004. It's a 1970's heartfelt yet humorous timepiece of teenage wonderment and adventure and was an instant New York Times and International Best Seller.
Dave is a living testament of a self-made man who, as an optimist, strongly exudes resilience, service to mankind, personal responsibility, and faith in humanity. Dave's unique and intriguing outlook on life, coupled with his "Robin Williams"-like wit and sense of humor, entertain and encourage all of us to truly commit to overcome any challenge, while living life to its fullest. For over two decades, Dave has dedicated his life helping others . . . to help themselves. While many make excuses and seem pessimistic, Dave carries the banner in a nation where opportunities are endless in what he calls "The Greatness of America." And through his work, you will too.
MOST REQUESTED TOPIC:
HELP YOURSELF
(This truly inspirational presentation is geared for corporate audiences and the general public.)
"Help Yourself" is based on the New York Times Business Best Seller and international best-selling book. By taking control, being accountable, and having the courage to follow through with a sense of dignity on a daily basis, "Help Yourself" places a strong emphasis on moving beyond a painful history and innumerable setbacks.
Having survived a life-threatening childhood, Dave developed a strategy of turning adversity into triumph. Harnessing the adapted skills from his past, Dave teaches these techniques that have helped him to become the acclaimed self-made businessman and humanitarian he is today.
A majority of individuals have no idea why life has not "provided" for them or what they desire out of life. Dave stresses getting rid of life's garbage and developing clear obtainable objectives, while maintaining a realistic sense of fulfillment.
When it comes to conquering insurmountable odds and becoming stronger from the challenge, no one knows more than Dave Pelzer. While interweaving a careful balance of imperative "real life" information and a captivating sense of humor in a storytelling forum, Dave reenergizes the heart and challenges the human spirit in the unique presentation of "Help Yourself."
"Take the Time and Energy to Truly Invest in Your Most Important Asset: Yourself."
(Suggested Program Length: 45 minutes to 2 hours)
PROGRAMS FOR SCHOOLS, EDUCATORS, SOCIAL SERVICES, ETC:
The Real Heroes
(for educators, social services, human services, and general public audiences)
This highly emotional presentation pays tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to making a difference in the life of a child, while at the same time educating the general public of the challenges faced by those in their chosen field. Dave carefully weaves the story of how his life was saved by teachers, a school nurse, the police department, social services, and the foster care system - The Real Heroes.
The Most Important Person
(for middle and high school students, as well as children in foster care and other "youth-at-risk" groups)
To date, Dave has spoken to over 1600 schools and other youth organizations to hundreds of thousands of young people. His message is a combination of humor and pertinent real life information in a storytelling forum. It leaves a lasting impression on the audience, encouraging personal responsibility and resilience, and enabling them to be The Most Important Person.
BOOKS BY DAVE PELZER:
A Child Called 'It' ... One Child's Courage to Survive
The Lost Boy
A Man Named Dave
Help Yourself Finding Hope, Courage, and Happiness
The Privilege of Youth A Teenager's Story of Longing for Acceptance and Friendship
