CARING AND SHARING
This year’s Dare2Care is being hailed as a huge success thanks to a little help from locals David Foster and Fran Drescher. The event brought in big bucks for Leeza Gibbons, who hosted the starry soiree to benefit Leeza’s Place and the Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation.
Famous faces like Mario Lopez, Lance Bass, Maria Menounos, Sela Ward, Jamie Lee Curtis and Jennifer Grey waltzed down the red carpet at BOA on Sunset before hitting the VIP cocktail bash.
They soon took their seats for the evening’s festivities. The conversation quickly turned from “who are you wearing” to “how are you caring” as they celebrated the importance of philanthropy and giving back.
Music man Foster helped put together the entertainment line-up, which featured Grammy winner LeAnn Rimes, Broadway songbird Eden Espinosa and singer Chantelle Delaney. Country music queen LeAnn got misty-eyed during her performance, saying she has learned a great deal during her long career, especially “the importance of support and love and not to judge others for their mistakes.”
“Dancing With the Stars” champ Jennifer Grey presented Jamie Lee Curtis with the Caring Heart Award for her commitment to charitable causes. Hill Harper took home the Empowerment Award for helping to provide opportunities to the next generation through mentorship and scholarships. The Jewish Family Services of Los Angeles was also recognized for 157 years of service.
The evening wrapped up with Espinosa belting out popular numbers from the hit musical “Wicked.”
But the biggest highlight of all was helping Leeza’s Place. The foundation was established in response to the challenges Leeza faced while helping her mother cope with Alzheimers. The organization has set up centers and programs across the country, which provide free support services for family caregivers with loved ones suffering from a memory disorder or chronic illness.
ORANGE YOU GLAD
The Lupus Los Angeles organization celebrated in style and eye-popping color at its annual Orange Ball at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The fab fling was hosted by Fred Willard. This year’s honorees included PR giants Debbi and Roger Cowan as well as singer and songwriter Paula Abdul.
The former “American Idol” judge received the aptly named Loop Award. Proceeds go to Lupus LA and the Lupus Research Institute. Both organizations are working on safe and effective new treatments as well as finding a cure.
The event also helped kick off Lupus Awareness Month.