Rhapsody Ball Program Book 2015

A Night of Elegance, Illusion and Imagination The 14th Annual

November 13, 2015 Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills: a Four Seasons Hotel

dynamic leaders making a difference Tracy underwood

Corporate champion award

supervisor mark ridley-thomas

man of the year award

debra l. lee

media visionary award

event co-chairs:

kathy ireland cheryl boone isaacs fabian wesson

greater los angeles

Imagine.

The World is Yours.

You are part of a greater communitY. Union Bank® believes in the power of partnerships. That’s why we partner with communities and organizations to make a positive difference in the places where we work and live. To us, building a strong community is the most valuable investment of all.

Union Bank is proud to sponsor the YWCA Greater Los Angeles Rhapsody Ball. unionbank.com

Transaction Banking Commercial Treasury Services Sumiko Katayama Vice President, Treasury Relationship Manager 445 South Figueroa Street, 8th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90071 213-236-7010

Commercial Banking Group Shaun Malavia Vice President, Relationship Manager 445 South Figueroa Street, 10th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90071 213-236-6456

©2015 MUFG Union Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Union Bank is a registered trademark and brand name of MUFG Union Bank, N.A.

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PowerFull: YWCAGLA We are pleased to announce that all Honorees will be receiving a framed version of YWCA Greater Los Angeles’ specially commissioned Synthia Saint James’ painting “PowerFULL: YWCAGLA”. These framed prints are signed and limited edition Remarques.

The painting is a lively and colorfully interwoven tapestry, in celebration of the profound community impact that YWCA Greater Los Angeles makes daily, conveying the diversity of the individuals and families served.

Support the YWCA Greater Los Angeles and purchase a print today.

All proceeds support YWCA Greater Los Angeles’ programs!

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Y WCA Greater Los An gele s

EVENT SPONSORS

sapphire

platinum

gold

Silver NO STROKE:

Margaret Leong Checca

STROKE:

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A LETTER from the president & CEO and Board chairwoman Welcome to the YWCA Greater Los Angeles 2015 Rhapsody Gala! We are delighted that you joined us for this enchanted evening. We are also grateful to our donors and partners, who have graciously provided us with the support and resources to help make tonight unforgettable.

This year, we are excited to celebrate our service to the community and our continued efforts to provide essential resources and solutions to improve the lives of women, children, at-risk youth and seniors.

Faye Washington YWCA Greater Los Angeles, President & CEO

Tonight, we will honor the extraordinary accomplishments of three extraordinary individuals who are the embodiment of success.

This year’s honorees include: Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas ,“Man of the Year Award,” BET Networks’ Chairman and CEO Debra L. Lee, “Media Visionary Award,” and Tracy Underwood, National Manager of Social Impact at Toyota Motor Sales, USA, “Corporate Champion Award.”

Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark RidleyThomas has distinguished himself as a strong advocate for his district’s nearly two million residents. Recently, he oversaw the construction of the new $210 million Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital, which serves more than 1.5 million residents. His continued vision for the community addresses new ways to improve economic and workforce development, health care, public safety, education and more.

As the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BET Networks, Debra L. Lee oversees one of the most influential media companies in the world. Under her leadership, BET Networks has been a vanguard for African-American news and entertainment. She is an inspiration to women everywhere and a true media and entertainment visionary.

As the national manager of Toyota’s social impact group, Tracy Underwood is responsible for the administration of many of Toyota’s local and national philanthropic efforts. She helped lead Toyota’s partnership with the Special Olympics World Games which took place in Los Angeles this past summer. Toyota and Ms. Underwood have served as gracious partners to the YWCA GLA and we’re delighted to honor their efforts.

Lastly, we want to extend a special thanks to our event co-chairs, Kathy Ireland, Cheryl Boone Isaacs and Fabian Wesson.

Their commitment to our vision and passion for the work we do is unmatched.

As we celebrate tonight, we invite you to join us to serve the community of greater Los Angeles and to help us pave new roads toward innovation and progress. As we nurture new ideas to meet the challenges of the community, we can only implement solutions with your help. Your presence tonight is a great step toward a rewarding partnership. Thank you and enjoy the festivities!

Lisa D. Cagnolatti YWCA Greater Los Angeles, Board Chairwoman YWCA Greater Los Angeles, President & CEO

YWCA Greater Los Angeles, Board Chairwoman

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A Welcome Message from YWCA Greater Los Angeles Ambassador, Kathy Ireland Welcome...It is with great pleasure that I join Cheryl Boone Isaacs and Fabian Wesson as co-chair of YWCA Greater Los Angeles’ 2015 Rhapsody Gala, and to serve as Ambassador for this great organization.

The unsurpassed achievements by the YWCA Greater Los Angeles this year, is a testament to its strong leadership under the watchful, determined eye of President and CEO Faye Washington.

With a commitment to empowering women by providing essential resources to help improve their lives, eliminating racism and injustice and contributing to the development of our youth, YWCA Greater Los Angeles is a powerful change agent in our community.

This evening, we come together in celebration of BET’s CEO and Chairman, Debra L. Lee, Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark RidleyThomas and Tracy Underwood, Toyota’s National Manager of Social Impact.

These individuals have made heroic and everlasting contributions to our community, our nation, our world and specifically to the YWCA Greater Los Angeles.

As YWCA Greater Los Angeles’ Ambassador, it is extremely rewarding to witness the excitement and dedication to community service and outreach. In its 120-year history, this organization has climbed to great heights – but there is so much more to accomplish.

Your continued support strengthens our commitment to human rights for children, families, at-risk youth, seniors, survivors of sexual violence and human trafficking who all find help and safe spaces to live, learn and grow at YWCA Greater Los Angeles.

Thank you for joining us tonight. We value and appreciate your generosity and unwavering support.

On behalf of YWCA Greater Los Angeles, we are humbly grateful for your investment of time and resources throughout the years and our 2015 Rhapsody Ball. We know you will enjoy this magical night. Again, thank you for opening your heart. We look forward to meeting you.

“

As ambassador for YWCA Greater Los Angeles, it is exciting to contemplate their 120 years of service and imagine their limitless future.

Kathy Ireland

Entrepreneur, Advocate, Philanthropist

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Board of Directors

Executive Team

Officers: Lisa D. Cagnolatti Board Chairwoman

Faye Washington President and Chief Executive Officer

Vice President, Business Customer Division Southern California Edison

Donna Crowder Vice President, Operations & Administration

Alva P. Adams-Mason Board Vice-Chair Director African American Business Strategy, Corporate Communications Toyota Motor Sales, USA Inc. Patricia Reed-Cunningham Board Secretary Community Philanthropist Gerald M. Ford Board Treasurer Managing Director and Unit Manager Transaction Banking Credit MUFG Union Bank, N.A. Elected Members: Eleanor Beasley Margaret Leong Checca Marianne Ellis Dr. Annalisa Enrile Michelle Isenberg Amanda J. Lee Trisha Muse Nicole Osby Diedra Porche’

Noel Russell-Unterburger Vice President, Finance Cynthia Heard, M. ED Vice President, Business Development & Communications Sharon Shelton Vice President, Empowerment Services Ann Marie Hickambottom Vice President, Strategic Development Fred Williams Center Director, Los Angeles Job Corps Center Victor Abadia Director, Corporate Compliance

Maria Elena Chavez Director, Supervisor Gloria Molina Community Empowerment Center May Chen Tham Special Projects Manager Darnetta Dartest Associate Director of Human Resources Ruth LeDesma Hern Senior Executive Assistant, President and CEO Ayn Allen Director, Communications & Advocacy Laureen O’Hara Development Manager Nikki Kelley Grant Manager

Ruby Yuen Corporate Controller Tasha Carter Director, Digital Learning Academy Norma Gonzalez Director, Child Development Services, and Union Pacific Empowerment Center Sheetal Chib Director Sexual Assault Crisis Services

Faye Washington President and CEO

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A LETTER from the vice president of business development & communications Welcome to the 14th Annual Rhapsody Gala! Imagine. The World is Yours. We are excited to have you join us tonight to celebrate the YWCA Greater Los Angeles. As we honor the extraordinary accomplishments of our honorees, we also honor our phenomenal donors and partners, who have graciously provided us with the capital and resources to make tonight possible.

Cynthia Heard YWCA Greater Los Angeles Vice President of Business Development & Communications

Tonight, we invite you to take the next step in creating a brighter future for at-risk youth, families and seniors. Share our passion to achieve long term social change through vital, targeted services that we provide across Los Angeles County.

We are proud of our distinguished private-public partnerships that engage in building the bridges between the disfranchised and the future.

Over the past year, we have broadened our workforce development efforts within the field of technology. In March 2015, we opened our new state-of-the-art Digital Learning Academy, a joint venture with our partners Xerox Corporation, Toyota Motor Sales USA, the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office and United Way of Greater Los Angeles, to address the digital skills gap prevalent in today’s labor force.

We began classes and students received advanced, hands-on training through a customized curriculum focused on skills related to industry-standard digital communications. The successful DLA inaugural class graduated with everyone’s support and is now gainfully employed in corporate America, thanks to your generosity and heartfelt contributions.

Your continued investment will enrich the lives of at-risk youth and create pathways to amazing careers and colleges. It is your light and pulse for the YWCA GLA that gives youth, families and communities the opportunity to succeed. We cannot do it without you!!

Let’s work together and help us to continue to provide safe spaces for those in need throughout Los Angeles. Please join us and become a partner today!

Again, thank you for your support and we look forward to our continued partnership.

YWCA Greater Los Angeles Vice President of Business Development & Communications

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A Very Special Thanks to Our:

Event Co-Chairs

CHERYL BOONE ISAACS YWCA Greater Los Angeles Advisory Commissioner

President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences

Table Captains

FABIAN WESSON

KATHY IRELAND

YWCA Greater Los Angeles Ambassador

Entrepreneur, Advocate, Philanthropist

Marianne Ellis Gerald Ford Michelle Isenberg Nicole Osby Diedra Porche’ Patricia Reed-Cunningham

Chair, California Science Center and Exposition Park

Tasha Carter Ruth Hern Ann Marie Hickambottom Noel Russell-Unterburger Sharon Shelton

We Value Your Heartfelt Generosity.

In Gratitude, YWCA Greater Los Angeles Faye Washington, President & CEO YWCA GLA Board of Directors

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Event Honorary Committee Congresswoman Karen Bass Congressman Xavier Becerra Congressman Tony Cárdenas Congresswoman Judy Chu Congresswoman Janice Hahn Congressman Ted Lieu Congresswoman Grace Napolitano Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard Congressman Ed Royce Congresswoman Linda Sánchez Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez Congressman Adam Schiff Congresswoman Maxine Waters Senate President pro Tempore Kevin de León Senator Isadore Hall, III Senator Bob Huff Senator Holly Mitchell Senator Janet Nguyen State Controller Betty T. Yee Assemblymember Autumn Burke Assemblymember Matt Dababneh Assemblymember Mike Gatto Assemblymember Mike Gipson Assemblymember Jimmy Gomez Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer Assemblymember Patty López Assemblymember Patrick O’Donnell Assemblymember Sebastian Ridley-Thomas Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey Mayor of Los Angeles Eric Garcetti Mayor of Compton Aja Brown

Mayor of Hawthorne Chris Brown Mayor of Beverly Hills Julian A. Gold Los Angeles Chief of Police Charlie Beck Los Angeles County Sheriff Jim McDonnell Los Angeles City Controller Ron Galperin Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer Commissioner Dallas Fowler Commissioner Mike Davis Council President Herb J. Wesson, Jr. Councilmember Bob Blumenfield Councilmember Mike Bonin Councilmember Joe Buscaino Councilmember Gil Cedillo Councilmember Mitchell Englander Councilmember Felipe Fuentes Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson Councilmember Jose Huizar Councilmember Paul Koretz Councilmember Paul Krekorian Councilmember Nury Martinez Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell Councilmember Curren D. Price, Jr. Councilmember David Ryu Beverly Hills City Councilmember Lili Bosse Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich Supervisor Don Knabe Supervisor Sheila Kuehl Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas Supervisor Hilda L. Solis Honorable Jan C. Perry (ret.)

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program

Welcome and Sponsor Acknowledgement Nischelle Turner, Mistress of Ceremonies

Lisa Cagnolotti, YWCA Greater Los Angeles Board Chairwoman

Congresswoman Maxine Waters, 43rd District

Kathy Ireland, YWCA Greater Los Angeles Ambassador Entrepreneur, Advocate, Philanthropist

Cheryl Boone, YWCA Greater Los Angeles Advisory Commissioner

President, Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences

Fabian Wesson, Chair, California Science Center and

Exposition Park

Invocation Entertainment

Pastor Staci Current, Jones Memorial United Methodist Church

Chadwick Johnson, Abraham McDonald, Kinetic Theory

YWCA Greater Los Angeles Video Presentation

Salutation

Faye Washington, YWCA GLA President & CEO

Live Auction Presentation of Corporate Champion Award

Jan Perry

Presentation of Man of the Year Award Dr. Elaine Batchlor Presentaion of Media Visionary Award Tracey Edmonds Entertainment

Chadwick Johnson

This amazing journal was printed by the YWCA Greater Los Angeles’ Digital Learning Academy.

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Nischelle Turner Mistress of Ceremonies

Nischelle Turner is an award winning journalist and was formally a correspondent for CNN Entertainment reporting for “Showbiz Tonight” and contributing entertainment segments to the New York based morning program “New Day.” While at CNN, Turner’s work included leading the network’s coverage from the red carpet at the Grammys, Golden Globes and Oscars as well as her live coverage of breaking news, including the death of music legend Whitney Houston.

Turner began her journalism career in 1998 when she joined WEHT as a reporter and fill-in anchor in Evansville, Ind. In 2000, Turner was a weekday reporter and weekend anchor for WVUE-TV FOX8 in New Orleans. After establishing a presence in news, Turner joined KTTV in Los Angeles in 2004 as a reporter on “Good Day LA” and host/anchor for “Good Day LA Weekend.” Just a few months after leaving, she returned to New Orleans to cover Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath. Her coverage of the disaster won several journalism awards.

As an avid sports fan, Turner’s passion and knowledge came in handy when she joined FOX NFL Sunday as a sideline reporter for national football broadcasts in 2007. In addition to covering football, major league baseball and basketball for FOX, Turner became a host for “Extra on Essence” in 2009, an online entertainment show focusing on Hollywood’s most elite stars. Turner also has served as a freelance reporter and host for KNBC. In addition to appearing as an entertainment news expert for CNN and HuffPost Live, Turner was recently featured in a cameo role on The Young and the Restless.

Turner attended the University of Missouri where she earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and broadcast news.

ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT is a multiplatform entertainment news brand, with a cross-screen portfolio that includes the #1 entertainment newsmagazine

ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT Correspondent

on television, averaging 5 million viewers daily, and the #1 outlet for entertainment news video online, delivering more than 75 million video views per month. ETonline.com is a top 10 entertainment news property, with 35 million unique visitors per month, while ET’s social audience reaches more than 70 million US users monthly.

Produced and distributed by CBS Television Distribution, ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT is hosted by Nancy O’Dell and Kevin Frazier and executive produced by Brad Bessey. Nischelle Turner is a correspondent with Cameron Mathison and Samantha Harris serving as correspondents and co-anchors of ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT WEEKEND.

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Tonight’s Presenters:

Pastor Staci Current Jones Memorial United Methodist Church

Elaine Batchlor, MD, MPH CEO, Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital

Jan Perry General Manager Economic & Workforce Development Department, City of Los Angeles

Tracey Edmonds President and CEO, Edmonds Entertainment Group Inc. President and COO, Our Stories Films Co-Host, EXTRA TV

Mariea Antoinette -Urban Jazz Harpist Coming to You

“Straight from the Harp”

Billboard Top 5 contemporary Jazz Album Mariea’s Sterling Rendition of “Gloria (Angels We Have Heard on High)” Available November 14, 2015

Celestial, Jazzy, Elegant “Straight from the Harp - Special Edition” Available Now

Available on ITunes, CD Baby, and Amazon www.marieaantoinette.com For Booking: mahproductions@yahoo.com

Chadwick Johnson Performing at tonight’s event is

Singer, Songwriter and Headliner Chadwick Johnson.

Chadwick Johnson is an award winning singer, songwriter, and VegasHeadliner. His soulful approach to music is rooted in his early years ofsinging Jazz, Blues, and Gospel music. His incredible range has beencompared to great singers like Steve Perry and Harry Connick Jr. Hisvibrant vocal ability is undeniable on his acclaimed album, Soul Rising.

It is with great honor that Chadwick returns to perform for this year’sevent and extends his congratulations to the YWCA GreaterLos Angeles.

For more information on Chadwick Johnson visit: chadwickjohnson.com For booking please contact: bookchadwick@gmail.com 702-817-2533

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Kinetic Theory

Kinetic Theory is LA’s largest circus training center and home to a vibrant community of children and families, adult students, up-and-coming professional performers and veteran circus artists. Since 2008, Kinetic Theory has been dedicated to exploring and expanding the boundaries of physical and circus theatre through performances and ongoing training. Our goal is to inspire people of all ages and all walks of life through physical, circus and experimental theatre. www.kinetictheorytheatre.com

Photo- Kinetic Theory Circus Arts, Photo credit- Scott McFarlin

We first met Abraham McDonald as contestant # 6 on the internationally broadcast Oprah Winfrey Show.

Abraham won our hearts and the competition (judged by David Foster, Diane Warren and Antonio ‘LA’ Reid), with his big sound, sultry tones, a gleaming smile and a heart that leaped into the homes of millions of voters.

Abraham’s victory on the Show led to him signing an exclusive contract with the Island Def Jam Music Group where he released the R&B chart topper “Miracle” written by famed writing team Watters & Biancaniello. The hit single carried Abraham onto international stages around the world solidifying the crooner as an award winning force to be remembered. The singer’s gift has garnered him many platforms including an invitation to perform for and serenade the First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama an invite he of course was more than elated to honor.

Soon after Abraham joined Rebecca Holden in making history performing their YouTube Million + hit “Dreams Come True” on the Legendary Bobby Jones Gospel, BET. ab@abrahammcdonald.com

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Phone: 213.800.1014

Christmas is afoot and the magic of Abraham McDonald is soon to be on the radio airwaves with the November 24, 2015 release of the already abuzz “Better Than Words” and an epic version of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”

“A Brand New Day” with Abraham McDonald & friends PERFORMING Rebecca Holden Kinetic Theory Circus Arts Founder | Director Stephanie Abrams

SEGMENT PRODUCER AB McDonald for killshotCREATIVE amdconsulting1@gmail.com

Degas Dance Studio With Malcolm Dunbar & Tiana Powell Courtney Spungin Brianna Beach Savea Kagan Kendel LeGore

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Christopher Stone c.stonedesignz@gmail.com

The SOUND Octavia Pace (Vocal Director) Chris Bolton Shannon “Sang Diva” Pearson And the Long Beach Polytechnic Chorale featuring DēP Director | Lori Grace Faith Motovu Ashley Holly Melissa Moreno Mackenzie Eggie Chloe Weatherspoon Christian Song Jules Davis LeDray Hill Matthan Fontenoza Akili Russell

SONG ARRANGEMENT Brand New Day & Hallelujah Gabriel Roland & Abraham McDonald MUSIC PRODUCTION Gabriel Roland DEGAS DANCE TEAM Choreographer | Artistic Director Anacia Weiskittel

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live auction “Weekend Test Drive” of a Series II Ghost Rolls Royce

O’Gara Coach of Beverly Hills

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Vanessa Thanos Auctioneer

“

If you are looking for a young, attractive and energetic host to liven up your next event, Vanessa Thanos is the answer. Vanessa has an amazing ability to bring a crowd together and make bidding contagious and exciting. Whether auctioning animals, real estate, extravagant vacations, priceless art, or a one of a kind Lamborghini for charities, school fundraisers, or other social gatherings, Vanessa has proven she has a gift at reading her audience and pushing them to the limit.

“The Race to Erase MS event has fabulous live auction items that only came to life with the expertise, timing and knowledge of Vanessa’s Auctioneering talent! She is an exceptional professional and helped us raise a significant amount of funds towards our cause of finding a cure for multiple sclerosis.”

Nancy Davis, Founder and President, The Nancy Davis Foundation for MS

Your decision in choosing the right professional auctioneer will make all the difference. Contact Vanessa for more information on how to make your next event a success! She is available anywhere, anytime. vanessathanos@thatauctiongirl.com

“

Vanessa is well trained, cultured and experienced in handling all types of events.

She is even fluent in both Spanish and Greek. Vanessa is available to travel anywhere in the world to make your next auction a success!

ThatAuctionGirl.com

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Corporate champion award Tracy Underwood As national manager of Toyota’s social impact group, Underwood is responsible for the administration of many of Toyota’s local and national philanthropic efforts as well as corporate volunteer activities.

Toyota’s Social Innovation Division works to develop practical solutions to challenges communities face today and tomorrow.

We do this by sharing our know-how and engaging the talents of our diverse employees to inspire new ideas that move us forward.

Underwood manages the evaluation and distribution of philanthropic grants for Toyota as well as oversees the execution of the company’s national social impact programming including projects focusing on areas such as education, environment and safety.

Underwood is also has been responsible for the coordination of efforts such as the company’s signature defensive driving education series for educators, teens and their parents, Teen Drive 365 and Toyota’s first-ever philanthropic social media campaign entitled Toyota 100 Cars for Good. The Toyota 100 Cars for Good program donated 300 vehicles to 300 non-profit organizations across the country based on votes from the public via Toyota’s Facebook page.

Underwood has held a number of positions during her tenure with Toyota including management of Toyota’s award-winning, multi-million dollar Video Production Center which serves as a communications hub for internal and external corporate messaging, team member and dealer training, video news releases, and internet broadcasting/ webcasting. Other positions include media relations manager, community relations manager, Lexus public relations administrator, community relations administrator and supervisor, and human resources analyst.

Underwood graduated from California State University, Northridge with a bachelor of science degree in business management.

National Manager, Social Impact/Social Innovation Division Toyota Motor Sales USA

She serves a member of the Switzer Learning Center’s Board of Trustees, and is a member of the board of directors for the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, Pediatric Therapy Network, the ACCP (Association of Corporate Contributions Professionals) and MADD Los Angeles.

She lives in the South Bay in Southern Calif., with her husband and two daughters.

“

Underwood helped to lead Toyota’s partnership with the Special Olympics World Games which took place in Los Angeles in 2015, the largest sporting event to take place in the city since the 1984 Olympic Games. Toyota served as the official automotive partner providing 400 vehicles which were used throughout the competition as well as pace vehicles for the “Flame of Hope” crosscountry torch relay. The company also commissioned three permanent murals in the city celebrating the spirit of the games and coordinated the participation of nearly 600 Team Toyota volunteers.

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More than 600 Toyota volunteers fanned out across the Los Angeles region to help at the Special Olympics World Games 2015.

“

We salute Tracy and Toyota’s commitment to philanthropy and community affairs, specifically to YWCA Greater Los Angeles’ education and workforce development programs and are honored to present Tracy and Toyota with the Corporate Champion Award.

Faye Washington YWCA Greater Los Angeles, President & CEO

30 YEARS OF TRAILBLAZING LEADERSHIP. AND COUNTING. BET Networks salutes our own Chairman and CEO

Debra L. Lee YWCA Greater Los Angeles Media Visionary Award Honoree

usbank.com/ourcommunity

Standing ovations mean more when we all stand together.

From the stage to the seats, everyone who supports our community deserves applause.

We're honored to play a role in making our community more inspiring.

U.S. Bank is proud to support YWCA Greater Los Angeles.

Member FDIC. Š2014 U.S. Bank

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man of the year award Honorable Mark Ridley-Thomas Since he was overwhelmingly elected in November 2008 and reelected in June 2012 to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Mark Ridley-Thomas has distinguished himself as a strong advocate for the Second District’s nearly 2 million residents.

Supervisor

Second District County of Los Angeles He has promoted the district’s interests on a variety of fronts, including transportation, job creation, retention and local hiring. In the area of health policy, Supervisor Ridley-Thomas has overseen the construction of a new Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital, as well as a network of cutting edge healthcare facilities throughout the district; he has facilitated the use of technology and encouraged an integrated approach to wellness that includes mental health care and a prominent role for school-based clinics. His advocacy has helped secure an equitable share of funding for public-private partnership health clinics in underserved areas.

Prior to his election to the Board, Supervisor RidleyThomas served the 26th District in the California State Senate where he chaired the Senate’s Committee on Business, Professions and Economic Development.

He served as Chair of the California Legislative Black

The long-awaited Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital opened its doors July 7, 2015, offering medical care to an area that has been without a full-service medical center since 2007.

Caucus in 2008 and led the Caucus in unprecedented levels of cooperation and collaboration with counterparts in the Latino, and Asian-Pacific Islander Legislative Caucuses.

Mark Ridley-Thomas was first elected to public office in 1991 and served with distinction on the Los Angeles City Council for nearly a dozen years and departed as Council President pro Tempore. He later served two terms in the California State Assembly, where he chaired the Assembly Democratic Caucus. His legislative work addressed a broad range of issues with implications for economic and workforce development, health care, public safety, education, budget accountability, consumer protection and civic participation.

He is widely regarded as the foremost advocate of neighborhood participation in government decision-making.

By virtue of his founding of the Empowerment Congress, arguably the region’s most successful twenty three year

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Supervisor RidleyThomas has promoted our community’s interest on a variety of fronts, including: transportation, job creation and retention, and local hiring. He recently led the charge to open the new Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital.

Photo credit: Westsidetoday.com

experiment in neighborhood-based civic engagement, he is considered the founder of the Neighborhood Council movement.

Ridley-Thomas’ political career was preceded by a decade of service as executive director of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Los Angeles, which followed a brief but successful five-year stint as a high school teacher.

The supervisor is a graduate of Manual Arts High School in Los Angeles and earned a baccalaureate degree in Social Relations (minor in Government) and a master’s degree in Religious Studies (concentration in Christian ethics) from Immaculate Heart College. Supervisor Ridley-Thomas went on to receive his Ph.D. in Social Ethics from the University of Southern California focusing on Social Criticism and Social Change.

He is married to Avis Ridley-Thomas, Co-Founder and Director of the Center for Non- Violence in Los Angeles. They are the proud parents of Morehouse College graduates Sinclair and Sebastian, a California State Assembly Member.

“

Supervisor Ridley-Thomas is a trailblazer whose priorities and achievements are closely aligned with our mission.

Faye Washington YWCA Greater Los Angeles, President & CEO

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Media advisory award Debra L. Lee

Debra L. Lee is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BET Networks. Ms. Lee oversees one of the most influential multiplatform media companies in the world, including several cable television networks and digital offerings that deliver high-quality entertainment for the African-American audience and consumers of Black culture globally.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer BET Networks

Under her leadership, BET Networks has created hits such as Being Mary Jane, Real Husbands of Hollywood, BET Awards, Black Girls Rock! and BET Honors. Because of her vision, Centric was successfully rebranded and relaunched in 2014 as the “first network designed for Black women.”

She also oversees the company’s current growth initiatives, including international distribution of the brand in Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, France, the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa.

Prior to her being named Chairman and CEO, Ms. Lee was President and Chief Operating Officer of BET Networks.

She joined BET as Vice President and General Counsel after serving as an attorney with Washington, D.C.-based Steptoe & Johnson. Prior to that she served as a law clerk to the late Honorable Barrington Parker of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia.

Affiliated with a number of professional, civic and cultural organizations, Ms. Lee serves as president of the national board of directors for the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater. She also serves on the boards for the Kennedy Center’s Community & Friends, The Paley Center for Media, and the Grammy Foundation. Ms. Lee, recognized as one of the most respected executives in the country, serves on the corporate board of directors of Revlon, Marriott, the Ad Council and Washington Gas & Light. She is a member of the national board of directors for the Economic Club of Washington and is a Trustee Emeritus of Brown University. She was appointed by the White House to the President’s Management Advisory Board and serves on the President’s Advisory Board for “My Brother’s Keeper Alliance.”

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We are honored to embrace the legacy and worldwide vision of Ms. Lee. She exemplifies exceptional leadership and commitment to excellence.

Faye Washington YWCA Greater Los Angeles, President & CEO

Ms. Lee earned her juris doctorate at Harvard Law School, while simultaneously earning a master’s degree in public policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government.

She graduated from Brown University with a bachelor’s degree in political science with an emphasis in Asian politics. She is a member of the Board of Trustees for Brown University and was awarded with a Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.) from Brown University in May, 2014.

Because of Lee’s vision, Centric was successfully rebranded and relaunched in 2014 as the

“first network designed for Black women.”

Photo credit: betpressroom.com

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YWCA Greater Los Angeles

Signature Programs at a glance

*All numbers represent FY 2014-15.

24,260

38,660

24,600

CHILD DEVELOPMENT

sexual assault crisis services

youth services/ workforce development

IMPACTED

IMPACTED

Offers infant, toddler, and preschool Child Development services at no cost or affordable rates. The curriculum focuses on enhancing each child’s cognitive processes and skills with particular attention to conceptual and communication skills.

Who We Serve: Qualifying families with children age three months to five years old and teenage mothers who attend school at San Fernando High.

16,584 IMPACTED

Offers support and healing to survivors of sexual assault and works to expand community awareness on issues resulting from sexual violence.

Who We Serve: Services are free and available to those 12 years of age and older.

senior engagement Offers educational and support programs which focus on three main areas: Social, Education, and Health/Fitness.

Who We Serve: Seniors and aging populations in Los Angeles.

IMPACTED

Offers the following programs: • Career Training Academy • Los Angeles Jobs Corps • Afterschool Programs • Youth Club • Techgyrls Who We Serve: Youth of Los Angeles ages 10 to 21 and individuals in need of career services and support.

ywca Hallmark Standards The YWCA Greater Los Angeles Signature Programs have interwoven within them YWCA USA Hallmark standards in Racial Justice and Women’s Economic Empowerment. These standards allow YWCA Greater Los Angeles to implement lessons learned from basic training and advanced workshops and integrate them into the daily lives of those served in order to create meaningful change in all major areas of life. greater los angeles

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our program: Child Development

YWCA Greater Los Angeles Child Development has offered infant, toddler and pre-school services since 1976 with developmentally appropriate childcare and a curriculum that enhances a child’s self-esteem, spontaneity, curiosity and self-discipline. The enhancement of the child’s cognitive processes and skills with particular attention to conceptual and communication skills is our primary goal.

Child Development uses the High Scope early childhood education approach. This method focuses on the child’s intellectual development

The goal of the Child Development department is to

thus moving a provider from simply providing

provide quality early childhood services comprised of

childcare to being an important aspect of the

age appropriate curriculums to enhance self-esteem,

child’s development. A parent educational

discipline, and conceptual communication skills.

component is included to fully support the child and family unit. This program provides a safe

ACTION AND IMPACT

space for parents who are working or pursuing

Using the Desired Results Developmental Profile

their educational goals.

tool, teachers documented children’s academic progress. The assessment results showed that

COMMUNITY NEED

an overwhelming majority of pre-school children

For years, a growing shortage of affordable,

enrolled in the YWCA program demonstrated

quality childcare has plagued the Greater Los

significant increases in the area of language and

Angeles region. YWCA Greater Los Angeles

literacy development.

addresses this need by offering an exceptional Child Development program to low income

During the 2013-2014 fiscal year, the YWCA Greater

families. Our nurturing learning environment

Los Angeles Infant Learning Center located on the

allows children to flourish while empowering

campus of San Fernando High School provided child

parents to continue to work, seek employment,

care services to teen mothers. Of those mothers

or attend school to improve overall quality of

who were seniors, 16% went to trade school, 41% are

life. YWCA Greater Los Angeles aspires to enrich

attending community college, while the remaining

lives through a holistic family approach to create

43% are employed with high school diplomas as a

empowered and educated individuals.

result of free child care services.

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our program: Sexual Assault Crisis Services

greater los angeles

The Sexual Assault Crisis Services program

advocates, and healthcare providers to assist

advocates for survivors who have broken their

sexual assault victims through the criminal justice

silence and supports victims who have yet to

process. Response from the SART has resulted

find their voice. This program seeks to improve

in an increase in the successful prosecution of

the quality of life for those victimized by sexual

crimes of sexual violence. Because the victim

violence and to provide awareness to prevent the

receives care immediately following the assault,

incident of sexual violence. The program works

evidence has been preserved, circumstances

closely with the community as a central resource

are clearly accounted, and evidence of date rape

for improving society’s response to this violent

drugs can be detected quickly resulting in higher

crime.

incidents of prosecution of assailants of sexual violence.

COMMUNITY NEED Even though rape and sexual violence are

Counseling Services for individuals and groups is

under reported, it is estimated that one in four

a foundation of services provided by the YWCA

women have been victimized by sexual violence.

Greater Los Angeles.

Supportive services offered by the YWCA Greater Los Angeles three rape centers are crucial

The 24-hour crisis hotline, which received calls

considering sexual violence trauma interferes with

from thousands of sleepless survivors, allowed

care giving obligations, pursuit of goals and the

victims to get the help they needed on the road to

ability to hold a job while its cumulative effects

overcoming traumatic experiences.

increase the risk of developing stress-related illnesses.

The goal of the Sexual Assault Crisis Services program is to provide comprehensive crisis intervention services 24 hours a day to survivors of sexual violence to help them recover from and cope with the traumatic experience. Responding to the needs of underserved communities being impacted by sexual violence has been the priority of YWCA Greater Los Angeles Sexual Assault Crisis Services during the 2013-2014 fiscal year.

ACTION AND IMPACT YWCA Greater Los Angeles was actively involved on the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) which brings together law enforcement, victim PAGE 32

Y WCA Greater Los An geles

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our program: Job Corps Urban Campus

The YWCA Greater Los Angeles (GLA) has been serving the Los Angeles area since 1894 and began administering the Los Angeles Job Corps Program in 1965. Job Corps, sponsored by the Department of Labor, is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive educational, vocational and social skills training program. It provides residential and nonresidential programming at no cost to homeless, emancipated, and at-risk youth ages 16-24. Job Corps employs a holistic career development training model that integrates the teaching of academic, vocational, employability skills, social competencies and wellness/health services. It leverages formal and informal partnerships with many businesses, employers, training facilities

appropriate workplace skills. For an individual to

and community organizations to deliver its

stand out in the crowd of applicants not only must

comprehensive service model, which includes job

they possess employable and educational skills

placement. The Los Angeles Job Corps serves

but they also must have strong ‘soft skills’ to move

thousands of individuals and provides housing for

beyond barriers into a successful career.

more than 400 low income students each year.

COMMUNITY NEED With competition for well-paying jobs on the rise in the greater Los Angeles area, it is even more crucial that individuals are prepared with

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our program: Digital Learning Academy

greater los angeles

Partnership with Xerox Corporation Establishes Pioneering Digital Learning Academy YWCA Greater Los Angeles and Xerox of Southern California have partnered strategically to offer the YWCA Greater Los Angeles Digital Learning Academy. This social enterprise venture for YWCA Greater Los Angeles will be located at the Hollywood Studio Club, a building with a rich history that has been operated by the YWCA Greater Los Angeles since 1926. This fully equipped, digital print shop includes the necessary tools to offer an employment path through which students can become digital craftsmen and features customized curriculum based on Xerox’s “School to Career” program.

“Much of the print industry is transitioning to digital printing including sophisticated machines and programs such as 3D printing,” explained Monserrat Ames, Xerox Regional Sales Manager.

“This equipment requires training and skilled

workers. Xerox is proud to partner with the YWCA Greater Los Angeles to deliver a quality hands-on training experience in an environment that will prepare students to fill the skills gap and have successful careers.”

Xerox installed twelve pieces of equipment and software - including a full-color digital press, 3D printers, a black and white press, booklet maker, trimming equipment, variable data machine, wide-format printer, and more. Additionally, Xerox worked with an internal team and partnered with a specialized contractor to develop customized curriculum adding to the current “School to Career” curriculum. This training focuses on the following key components within the digital printing field: Competencies, Learning Plan, Performance Assessment, Learning Activities and Industry Knowledge. More than a

Y WCA Greater Los An geles

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digital learning academy

classroom, students will get real hands-on

YWCA Greater Los Angeles Facilities Manager, who

experience as the print shop will be fully operational.

is helping to facilitate the details of this project. “As society moves forward in technology, we need people

“We are proud to take this giant step forward in

who can work the specialized equipment that is being

leading workforce development in the Greater

developed. This is an opportunity to improve the local

Los Angeles area,” said Faye Washington, YWCA

community as a whole and give people skills that

Greater Los Angeles President and CEO. “Thanks

employers need.”

to this partnership with Xerox, the YWCA Greater Los Angeles is able jump ahead of the curve in creating innovative opportunities for thousands of individuals in the Los Angeles area.”

“The goal is for students to graduate the program with certification and be able to walk into a company, which operates this type of equipment, skilled enough to get a solid job that will turn into a career,” explains Tasha Carter,

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our program: Youth Services/Workforce Development

greater los angeles

Career and college readiness skills are

stand out in the crowd of applicants not only must

implemented through two premier programs

they possess employable and educational skills

at the YWCA Greater Los Angeles, the Career

but they also must have strong ‘soft skills’ to move

Training Academy and the

beyond barriers into a successful career.

Los Angeles Job Corps. These programs combined serve thousands of individuals and provide housing for more than 400 low income students each year.

The Career Training Academy provides an opportunity for women to enter or rejoin the workforce learning skills within an office environment. The Career Training Academy offers workshops to include: professional attire standards, resume building, career search skill

One goal of the Youth Services/Workforce

building, mock job interviews, career maintenance

Empowerment program is to provide tools needed

skill building, and career advancement skill

to build leadership skills and self-confidence

building.

while achieving individual dreams and enriching communities. The other is to assist participants in

The Los Angeles Job Corps, established in 1964,

securing new careers through teaching and training

provides competitive vocational skills training

various skills such as computer skills training,

to students ages 16-24 to be contenders in

resume writing, and interview techniques.

today’s job market. Job Corps services include job placement, full educational scholarships,

ACTION AND IMPACT

with no loan to repay, room and board, a fully

The Career Training Academy

operational medical and dental facility, counseling

(CTA) provided a Mock Interview series through

services and post-graduation support services. A

a partnership with the United Way of Greater Los

Chartered High School on site provides students

Angeles. Volunteers from Fortune 500 companies

an opportunity to continue their education and

participated by providing students with real life

obtain a high school diploma or a G.E.D.

interviewing experience.

COMMUNITY NEED

Key educational workshops delivered during the

With competition for well-paying jobs on the

2013-2014 fiscal year at the Edison Computer

rise in the greater Los Angeles area, it is even

Lab included: Financial Literacy using Wells Fargo

more crucial that individuals are prepared with

“Hands On Banking” curriculum, Letter Writing,

appropriate workplace skills. For an individual to

PowerPoint Presentation skills, and Keyboarding.

Y WCA Greater Los An gele s

greater los angeles

our program: Senior Engagement

Senior Engagement is designed to foster a sense of community, reduce isolation, and promote physical activity and intergenerational learning.

We believe in engaging our senior members of the community and learning from their wealth of life experience. Program components include congregate dining which provides nutritional meals as well as a platform for engaging the seniors with one another. Other activities offered are health and wellness workshops, fraud prevention, exercise classes, computer instruction, learning excursions and intergenerational classes.

COMMUNITY NEED With the second largest elderly population in the country, there is a great need for holistic senior programs in Los Angeles. Seniors in our communities benefit from activities offered by YWCA Greater Los Angeles which focus on three main areas: Social, Education, and Health/Fitness.

The overall focus of Senior Engagement is to increase socialization and decrease isolation of seniors and assist them in obtaining a healthy lifestyle through recreational, educational and leisure activities.

ACTION AND IMPACT Educational seminars brought seniors together during the 2013-2014 fiscal year at the YWCA Greater Los Angeles Empowerment Centers as they learned. One of those seminars was a First Aid presentation that emphasized the importance of proper medical care and practical First Aid tips. Another seminar, “Coping with a Loss� presentation from the department of Mental Health, helped guide seniors through understanding the process of grief.

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YWCA Greater Los Angeles Empowerment Centers & Satellite Offices

greater los angeles

A Faye Washington Youth Empowerment Center 1020 South Olive Street Los Angeles, CA 90015 Contact: (213) 365-2991

B Supervisor Gloria Molina

Community Empowerment Center 7515 Pacific Blvd.

Walnut Park, CA 90255 Contact: (213) 516-3575

north J valley I

K

C Union Pacific

Empowerment Center 4315 Union Pacific Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90023 Contact: (323) 415-6057

south valley

D Digital Learning Academy

central LA east la

Studio Club Empowerment Center 1215 Lodi Place Los Angeles, CA 90038 Contact: (213) 516-3557

D

E Angeles Mesa Empowerment Center 2501 W. Vernon Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90008 Contact: (323) 295-4288

H

WEST LA

A

C B E

south LA

F Compton Empowerment Center

F

1600 E. Compton Blvd.

Compton, CA 90221 Contact: (310) 763-9117

G South Bay Sexual Assault Crisis Services 920 Atlantic Avenue Long Beach, CA 90813 Contact: (562) 590-6400

California State University Long Beach YWCA GLA Satellite Office Women’s & Gender Equity Center (WGEC), Room LA1-102 University Police Department Substation (UPD), Room USU-239 1250 Bellflower Blvd.

Long Beach, CA 90840-1201 Contact: (562) 985-2668 J

H Felicia Mahood Senior Center

11338 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028 Contact: (323) 295-4288 North Valley Infant Learning Center 11133 Omelveny Ave San Fernando, CA 91340 Contact: (818) 365-7344

long G beach North Valley Empowerment Center 1200 North Maclay Avenue San Fernando, CA 91340 Contact: (818) 365-6881

K YWCA Greater Los Angeles at Osborne 12059 Osborne Street Sylmar, CA 91331 Contact: (818) 896-3322

Y WCA Greater Los An gele s

Thank you Benefactrix! Your support allows us to uphold the YWCA core values of empowering women and eliminating racism.

President Circle: (Gifts of $500-$2,499) Ms. Alva P. Adams-Mason Ms. Deborah Beavers-Watford Ms. Joshlyn Black Ms. Antoinette Carters Ms. Margaret Leong Checca Ms. Maritza Collins Ms. Julie Ann K. Coyne Ms. Donna Crowder Ms. Darnetta Dartest Ms. Cecilia Day Mr. Gerald M. Ford Ms. Maria L. Garcia Ms. Norma Gonzalez Ms. Cynthia Heard Ms. Ruth Hern Ms. Ann Marie Hickambottom Ms. Jacqueline Honore Ms. Patricia Keane Ms. Hilda Linares Ms. Alva Moreno Ms. Laureen O’Hara Ms. MaryAnn Penn Ms. Patricia Reed-Cunningham Ms. Noel Russell-Unterburger

Ms. Ethel Sanford-Smith Ms. Sharon Shelton Mr. Roy Tolles Ms. Faye Washington Club 250: (Gifts of $250-$499) Ms. Virginia Harper Ms. C.E. Hetrick Ms. Deloria Jones Mr. Howard Parelskin Ms. Jocelyn Pastore Ms. Catalina Rangal Club 100: (Gifts of $100-$249) Ms. Vicky Barker Ms. Eleanor Beasley Ms. Sandra Braham Ms. Janet Britt Ms. Lisa D. Cagnolatti Ms. Sharon Campise Ms. Frieda Caplan Ms. Tasha Carter Ms. Elizabeth Castillo Dr. Annalisa Enrile

For more information about the Society of Benefactrix, contact Laureen O’Hara at (213) 251-1329 or email: Laureen.O’Hara@ywcagla.org

Ms. Victoria Franklin Mr. Gerald M. Ford Mr. Alvaro Garcia Ms. Maria L. Garcia Ms. Dee Hollowood-Brown Ms. Michelle Isenberg Ms. Samantha Jones Ms. Vivian Howell Ms. Amanda J. Lee Ms. Joyce Louden Ms. Karen Mayeda Ms. Alison Miller Ms. Terri Moore Ms. Trisha Muse Ms. Maeda Nelson Ms. Diedra Porche’ Ms. Gwen Randolph Ms. Leona Reed Mr. Vince Russo Ms. Gail Silver Ms. May Chen Tham Ms. Helen Washington Ms. Beverly Williams

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‌is the key to solving your Engineering, IT and Telecommunications Needs We are proud supporters of the YWCA GLA Congratulation to the Honorees!

5777 W Century Boulevard, Suite 560 Los Angeles, California 90045 (P) 310-641-3260 or (F) 310-641-4417

YWCA GREATER LOS ANGELES THANKS

O’GARA COACH COMPANY FOR SUPPORTING OUR LIVE AUCTION!

The New Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital and Dr. Elaine Batchlor, CEO would like to congratulate Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas for his Man of the Year award.

We appreciate your commitment to the community!

Elaine Batchlor, MD Chief Executive Officer Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital

WEB SITE:

www.mlkch.org

TWITTER:

FACEBOOK:

Facebook.com/YourMLKCH

INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/yourmlkch

@YourMLKCH

TO ACHIEVE THE IMPOSSIBLE, YOU MUST LOOK BEYOND WHAT IS POSSIBLE. CONGRATULATIONS TO TONIGHT’S OUTSTANDING AWARD RECIPIENTS Tracy Underwood Honorable Mark Ridley-Thomas Debra L. Lee ©2014 CEDARS-SINAI.

Cedars-Sinai is proud to support the YWCA of Greater Los Angeles.

PAGE 91

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Century honors YWCA Greater Los Angeles for its dedication to advancing human dignity for all persons in need.

You can help local families stay off the streets by supporting programs with proven long-term success.

Learn more at:

centuryvillages.org

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PA M E L A B R I G H T - M O O N , P R E S I D E N T P. O . B O X # 4 8 0 7 6 0 LOS ANGELES, CA 90048 2 1 3 . 2 4 8 . 3 1 8 9 / W W W. W I T H G R AC E P R O D U C T I O N S . CO M

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CONGRATULATIONS YWCA Greater Los Angeles Rhapsody Gala Honorees

Honorable Mark Ridley-Thomas man of the year

Debra L. Lee Bet networks Media Visionary

Tracy Underwood Toyota u.s.a Corporate Champion

Dr. & Mrs. Accie Mitchell & Family

Cynthia Mitchell Heard, Tracy Mitchell, Marc & Jessica Mitchell, Alex & Caroline Mitchell, & Lori Konsker

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Special Thanks A Very Special Thanks to the Incredible Table Captains, Volunteers & Event Producers of YWCA Greater Los Angeles 2015 Rhapsody Gala.

We appreciate your time, your energy and your commitment to excellence for our 2015 Rhapsody Gala. You work tirelessly for the goals and vision of our organization and we truly appreciate all that you do.

Table Captain Chairs:

Patricia Reed-Cunningham

Diedra Porche’ Table Captains:

Marianne Ellis

Gerald Ford

Michelle Isenberg

Nicole Osby

Diedra Porche’

Patricia Reed-Cunningham

Tasha Carter

Cynthia Heard

Ruth Hern

Ann Marie Hickambottom

Noel Russell-Unterburger

Sharon Shelton

Faye Washington Volunteers:

Catalina Rangal

Erica Harper

Hilda Linares

Lydia Martinez

May Chen Tham

Maria Torres

Bruce Ogier

Sheila Wiley

Somone Washington Event Producers:

Laureen O’Hara

Monica Galindo

Margo Muňoz

Nikki Kelley

Ayn Allen

ONE Event Management

Guttman & Associates

7 & Associates

This amazing journal was designed by 7 & Associates and printed by the YWCA Greater Los Angeles’ New Digital Learning Academy.

Thank you to the Digital Learning Academy Team.

greater los angeles

1020 S. Olive Street, 7th Floor Los Angeles 90015 Tel: (213) 365-2991 Fax: (213) 365-9887

www.ywcagla.org facebook.com/ywcagla youtube.com/ywcagreaterla twitter.com/ywca_gla

Y WCA Greater Los An geles

7

&

Associates

Complete Communications Solutions

Lonna Gibson & Shae Lawson 661-388-1295

101

Our Deepest Congratulations and Gratitude to the Heroes Being Honored Tonight.

Your compassionate dedication to creating hope and opportunity for young people who have been so cruelly denied these makes you the spirit incarnate of love and grace.

To be so recognized by our best angels, the YWCA Greater Los Angeles where every day and every year the impossible is proven possible, is the highest confirmation of your works of heart.

Thank you for allowing us to contribute in some small way to this city’s most beautiful night, The Rhapsody Gala.

Your friends at Guttman Associate, so constantly amazed at the good you do.

� � � � � ���� � � � �

� � � � �

2015 Rhapsody Gala �

�� �

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

A Private University with a Public Mission

University Mission Statement The University develops a diverse group of health professional leaders who seek social justice, promote wellness, provide care with excellence and compassion, and are uniquely qualified to transform the health of underserved populations through outstanding education, research, and clinical services, in the context of community engagement.

Apply Today: www.cdrewu.edu/apply

CHARLES R. DREW UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND SCIENCE Congratulates

The Rhapsody Gala

And its Honorees Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas Man of the Year Award

Debra L. Lee

Media Visionary Award

Tracy Underwood

Corporate Champion Award

1731 East 120th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90059 | p: 323.563.4839 f: 323.563.4837 | admissionsinfo@cdrewu.edu

THE ENERGY OF

» COMMUNITY

SoCalGas® applauds the YWCA Greater Los Angeles for giving back such positive energy to Southern California. SoCalGas is committed to providing safe, clean and reliable energy to the communities we serve. socalgas.com © 2015 Southern California Gas Company. Trademarks are property of their respective owners. All rights reserved. N15B01137A

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Save the Date!

May 11, 2016 Omni Los Angeles Hotel

For Sponsorship Opportunities contact Laureen O’Hara at 213.251.1329 or email laureen.o’hara@ywcagla.org .

Phenomenal YWCA GREATER LOS ANGELES PRESENTS

Woman Awards

2016

Y WCA Greater Los An gele s

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Celebrating over 120 ywca greater los angeles

1912

YWCA Negro women establish 12th Street branch

1953

YWCA of Los Angeles – Establishment of the Compton Center with initial services offered to teens in the Willowbrook area

1913

Mary Andrews Clark Memorial Residence built at 3rd and Loma Drive

1965

Los Angeles Job Corps Center for Women opens, operated by the YWCA of Los Angeles

1993

1983 Opening of new North Valley Center

1922

New building purchased for Compton Program Location 509 East Compton Blvd., Compton, CA 90221

2010

YWCA Greater Los Angeles leases 920 N. Atlantic in Long Beach, CA June 24, 2010 to house its expanded Sexual Assault Crisis Services providing counseling, 24/7 hotline, prevention, self defense, and medical/legal accompaniment to the South Bay Communities

Magnolia Residence, 615 East 3rd Street, purchased

by Japanese community and deeded to YWCA as dormitory for young Japanese women

1969

Angeles Mesa branch building on Vernon Avenue purchased

1996

Felicia Mahood Senior Center on Santa Monica Boulevard

2012

Executive Offices and Job Corps relocated to the new Urban Campus building at 1020 S. Olive St., Los Angeles, CA 90015

Y WCA Greater Los An gele s

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20 Years of Service 1926

1943

Built Studio Club 1215 Lodi Place Los Angeles, CA 90038

1975

North Valley Center organized in San Fernando

1977

Infant Care Center opened at San Fernando High School

2003

Union Pacific Child Development Center in East Los Angeles

Job Corps Program expanded. Coed program moves into Hollywood Studio Club

2010

Union Pacific Empowerment Center on May 15, 2010, that will provide child development to 80 children, Edison International Computer Lab, Girls Center, ESL, senior services and other services meeting the needs of the East Los Angeles Community. The center is located at 4315 Union Pacific Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90023

F

For 120 years, the YWCA Greater Los Angeles has served hundreds of thousands of disadvantaged and underserved individuals. What began in 1894 with 300 members operating out of one small location has grown into a robust organization which annually serves thousands of individuals ranging in age through 11 program sites across the region.

Today we are working together toward long-term positive change on a multigenerational level to elevate the quality of life for the community at large. Through a ‘ground up’ approach of local community Empowerment Centers, women and families are getting the help they desperately need in an authentic, community need driven environment.

We remain dedicated to transitioning families toward selfsufficiency and empowerment. Now with a strong downtown Los Angeles physical presence through our celebrated Faye Washington Youth Empowerment Center, which serves as the epicenter of our efforts, we are working to “Shape the Community” in other local pockets throughout the greater Los Angeles area.

C E L E B R A T I N G

2013

YWCA GLA satellite office Osborne Family Center, in Sylmar, CA

2014

Supervisor Gloria Molina Community Empowerment Center in Walnut Park

1894- 2015

greg richardson shelby kocee drina durazo justin gordon adrian gaeta brad griffith jaime gonzalez

one event management eventsbyone.com

310.659.5517

@oneeventmanagement

@EventsByOne

Together We Have the Power to Keep the Future Bright Edison International is proud to sponsor the YWCA of Greater Los Angeles’ Rhapsody Gala We congratulate tonight’s honorees: Tracy Underwood Honorable Mark Ridley-Thomas Debra L. Lee

LIFE. POWERED BY EDISON.

They Not Only Drive the Future, They Drive Us.

From the playground to the driver’s seat, Toyota is committed to supporting diverse communities.

As the next generation embraces a more inclusive culture, future leaders will need to see themselves in the workforce and beyond. Toyota is proud to help the visionaries of tomorrow behold opportunities in today’s world.

Discover how an automobile company can be a vehicle for change and growth.

Diversity: Respect it. Include it. Live it.

www.toyota.com/diversity

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