Elaine Hendrix – actress and producer – is not just another pretty face. She’s a face with focus; a woman who transforms passion into plan of action, a woman who doesn’t just dream about making a difference, she embodies it. 

Born in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Hendrix and her divorced mother moved to Atlanta, Georgia when she was 15 years old. She attended the Northside School of Performing Arts and began her career as a model and dancer shortly thereafter. In 1992, Hendrix moved to Los Angeles to begin a career in film, garnering the starring role as  ‘Agent 66’ in Fox’s 1995 remake of “Get Smart,” a recurring role as “Ms. Lischak” in “Joan of Arcadia,” and a multitude of guest star appearances in such notable series as “ER,” “CSI: Miami,” and “Friends,” just to name a few.

Although her accolades speak for themselves, it’s the voice she uses for those who have none that bring her the most joy. “‘Obsessed’ is a bit extreme, but it sure comes close in describing my love for animals,” said Hendrix. “Since the time I was a child and could name all 103 of my stuffed animals, I have loved them. The older I get and the more I learn of their beauty and intelligence, their magic and mystery, and tragically, their horrors and plight – the deeper my commitment to them grows.”

Hendrix recently started an annual event to raise money for her two favorite charities: the international organization, In Defense of Animals (www.ida.org), and the Los Angeles based group, The Pet Care Foundation (www.pets90210.org). In honor of “Be Kind to Animals Week,” on May 7, Hendrix and five other actors put on a reading of “Because They Have No Words” – the true story of one man’s animal rescue experiences in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, nominated for a 2007 Ovation Award for Best World Premiere Play, written by Tim Maddock and Lotti Louise Pharriss. The reading, silent auction, reception and raffle opened to a full house and raised over $10,000.

In addition to her annual event, Hendrix’ involvement with animal charities goes even deeper. “Becoming a spokesperson for IDA was an easy choice,” she said. “They are supportive of my enthusiastic participation and they are a generous, cause-oriented organization, meaning approximately 86% of their funds go directly to the cause.” With regards to The Pet Care Foundation, she has volunteered with them since its inception.

Hendrix asks people to join her in taking a lifestyle pledge to be more conscientious of animals and to help them by 1) adopt a companion animal (never buy them), 2) spay/neuter your companion animal, 3) NEVER buy or wear fur, 4) buy/support products not tested on animals, and 5) support an animal group or organization.

“With the efforts of all of us, we can create a world that is free from violence and exploitation of all living beings.”