Help Judy & Dave back on their feet

David and Judy Arnold are 78 years old and have been married for 56 years. They worked hard all their lives – for over 50 years - raised two kids, and have three grandchildren. This sweet, generous couple wanted nothing more than to enjoy their golden years and love and support their friends and family.

But in August 2016, David won a contest online, followed by a letter with claims of a big payday. He was thrilled because he wanted to give his kids a nest egg, and pay for his granddaughter’s college education. He then received a phone call that would change their lives forever.

Like so many trusting seniors, they fell prey to a financial and identity scam that has left them bankrupt. They lost everything - their home of 15 years, their car, and even their weddings rings, which were pawned to pay the mortgage. Their life savings and their hope are depleted.

Dave and Judy want a place to call home and a new beginning. To enjoy a decent life without burdening their kids. To see their grandkids grow up. To get back on their feet and to show their kids that hope and positivity define your character.

So many of us reading this are probably wondering how this can happen. In fact, thousands of seniors and disabled people are exploited every year through telemarketing, internet and financial cons that strip them of their life savings and stability. Most are brainwashed or have their identities stolen. Its real, its ugly and millions are taken advantage of.

Today, we are reaching out to friends, colleagues and anyone that has lost and persevered. We are desperately raising funds after losing over $250k to help the Arnolds move from a temporary living arrangement to an Independent Living Facility in Atlanta, Georgia, where they can start over with the love and support of their family that lives there.

These funds will be used for a small apartment, possibly a affordable used car or some form of transportation that makes sense and basic living expenses for the next year, until a subsidized senior living facility becomes available. During this time, Dave will actively look for work so that he can provide for himself and his wife, like he has done for his entire life.  

Our big picture is that this campaign can also help create seed funds to begin a new feature film documentary exposing senior scams which has reached epidemic proportions in this country. The film will be directed by award-winning director/producer Jenna Cavelle, whose work as a documentarian has caused measurable change in marginalized communities where she uses film to advocate for social and environmental issues. Jenna holds a Master of Fine Arts in film and television production from USC's prestigious film school and a Bachelor of Science from UC Berkeley. She is currently entering production on her fourth feature film during which time she will continue working closely with the Arnold's in an effort to use their story to bring justice to other victims in the senior community. 

 As mad as we are, and how badly we want justice, our first cause is to help David and Judy find a new home, put food on the table, and retain their dignity and spirit.

Everyone deserves a second chance. Let’s help give them one together.

Love, The Arnolds