Holly Robinson Pete hit the nail on the head when she said, “service is the rent we pay for living.” Honestly, whether you have a lot or a little there is an internal satisfaction, and unexplainable change that happens within you when you help empower the life of another person in some way.
When it comes to organizations that consistently actively change the lives of those they help Habitat for Humanity achieves that time and time again. They make it a priority to mobilize their resources to empower and change the lives of both those in need of help and those who volunteer to help. The work accomplished is not only essential but helps rebuild and strengthen communities and families.
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles had their annual Builders Ball 2018 at The Beverly Hilton on September 27, 2018. This year’s Builders Ball raised awareness and funds to continue the organization’s work in empowering families and building strength and stability in communities through homeownership. The Builders Ball also honored Habitat LA’s counterparts in the building and real estate industry, as well as partners and donors, who are helping transform the landscape of Los Angeles. This year’s award recipients were Actress and singer, Holly Robinson Peete, Los Angeles’ professional soccer team, LA Galaxy, and Watt Companies, one of the nation’s largest owners, developers, and managers of residential and commercial real estate on the West Coast. All Honorees were given generously donated gifts by Thoughtfully, a company specializing in curated gift sets perfect for any occasion. Additionally through the Thoughtfully Initiative, the company has committed to giving ten percent of all profits to go towards funds that support local, regional and national organizations all while supporting the company’s mission of inspiring others to live and give thoughtfully
Holly Robinson Peete, was honored with the Dream Builder Award for her commitment to helping those in need through her HollyRod Foundation. Her organization provides compassionate care and services to underserved individuals and families that are financially and emotionally affected by autism and Parkinson’s disease. Holly has also volunteered with Habitat LA several times and has served as its National Women Build Week spokeswomen.
Los Angeles’ professional soccer team, LA Galaxy, was honored with the Foundation Builder Award in recognition of their commitment to helping those in need through the LA Galaxy Foundation. Their Foundation is dedicated to assisting the community through soccer programming that promotes inclusion for all athletes, education opportunities, and a strong spirit of volunteerism. The LA Galaxy has been an important partner and long-time supporter of Habitat LA for nearly a decade.
Watt Companies received the Builder of the Year Award for their commitment to creating holistic communities to work and grow, while incorporating quality and innovation. Since their founding over 70 years ago, Watt Companies has been committed to finding solutions to resolve the homelessness crisis. The Watt family also has a strong continued commitment to affordable housing solutions.
The night ended with an uplifting and lively performance by world-famous percussionist and entertainer, Sheila E., and Habitat LA was also able to raise more funds for their continued charitable efforts for the Greater Los Angeles community.