Antwone Fisher helps raise record funds at Family and Children's Center Spotlight Gala

SOUTH BEND, Ind. - Successful Hollywood screenwriter Antwone Fisher shared his incredible story of survival and resilience in South Bend on Thursday night helping bring in a record $225,000 at the Family and Children's Center Spotlight Gala. 

The non-profit is dedicated to ending child abuse and neglect here in Michiana by supporting at-risk families and educating parents.

Fisher's life story was turned into a hit movie directed by and starring Denzel Washington.

Antwone Fisher told the crowd at Four Winds Casino Hotel his harrowing tale of being born in an Ohio women's prison where his mom was serving time for murdering his abusive father.

Then suffering through years at an abuse-filled foster home before becoming homeless at age 17.

He then turned his life around by joining the U.S. Navy, traveling the world, and becoming a decorated military veteran.

After moving to California, Fisher landed a successful screenwriting career in Hollywood starting with his own life story and the 2002 inspirational movie named after him, Antwone Fisher.

ABC57's Brian Conybeare served as the emcee at the event.