(WASHINGTON, D.C.) August 18, 2004. First Star announced today a cause-related marketing partnership with Tylerskye by Villand, the LA-based upscale fashion denim company, to raise funds dedicated to improving life for America's most vulnerable children. Tylerskye will be donating $1.00 US to First Star from the sale of every garment sold.

First Star’s mission is to ensure that children in the judiciary, foster care and child protective services systems receive quality and compassionate care; that basic civil and legal rights are met for each child; and that every child enjoys a safe and loving permanent home. First Star’s programs fall into four specific categories: public policy, research, education, and public awareness.

“First Star is a catalyst for improving the systems that serve abused children,” says Peter Samuelson, First Star’s president and co-founder. “Our work plays out in Congress, the courtroom and the university classroom. We know our relationship with Tylerskye will heighten public awareness of these issues – and ultimately benefit the children who most need our help.”

Tylerskye was launched in March of 2004 by denim experts John Inn and Laura Hong, and has already been featured in Glamour, Lucky and InStyle magazines. Named after their two daughters Tyler and Skye, the business has taken on a special meaning. “John and I wanted to be able to contribute to society on a corporate level where the support could essentially be limitless and make a noticeable impact. I chose First Star because their mission is to help children. My children are fortunate enough to have a home and two loving parents. I’m hoping with the help of First Star’s efforts, that one day all of America’s children can have the same,” said Laura.

Tylerskye will feature a separate hang tag on every garment noting their involvement with First Star. The hang tag will indicate the $1.00 US from every garment sold contribution to First Star and have information for the consumer on how to reach First Star. Laura Hong hopes that the tag will encourage consumers to contact First Star to find out how they can help. Laura continues, “This is a very significant commitment on our part, based on our belief that changes in the existing child welfare system must happen. We look forward to working with other members of the fashion community to raise funds for a cause that is so vital for the future of neglected children.”

Peter Samuelson, a motion picture executive, co-founded First Star in 1999 after starting the Starlight Children's Foundation in 1982 and the Starbright Foundation in 1990. The organization is chaired by Lt. Gen. Claudia J. Kennedy (retired).