Outreach through L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center's 40th Anniversary Gala & Auction

On Saturday, November 12, 2011, Southern California Rehabilitation Services’ (SCRS) Executive Director Jim Baker, IL Program Manager Mike Bailey and selected staff members joined the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center in their celebration of 40 years of services to the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) community.

The Center’s Anniversary Gala & Auction was held this year in the exquisite Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles. The event was hosted by the Emmy Award winning actor Leslie Jordan, and featured another Emmy winner, actress Jane Lynch, who presented the center’s special award of the night to actor Neil Patrick Harris and his partner David Burtka.

Activist celebrity Chaz Bono also was honored at the event.

The evening included a cocktail reception, a live and silent auction, dinner and great entertainment. It was a celebration of community, diversity and an embracement of life. It was inspiring to listen to testimony of former clients of the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, turned success stories. It moved many to tears and at the same time it informed us of the importance of their services and work.

Our efforts to outreach to the LGBT community are well on their way. People with disabilities are found in all communities, at all economic levels and within all races and ethnicities. It involves everyone. SCRS is pleased to continue to build partnerships and network with the LGBT community and those with disabilities in need of our services.

Ana Rocha

Housing Specialist