Gala Benefits Social Service Programs in Six Counties

Lutheran Social Services of Southern California (LSSSC) - a leading provider of social services programs in Southern California - kicked off its 80th year of service at their annual Gala & Awards Dinner on November 8 at the historic Mission Inn in Riverside. Over 150 guests enjoyed an elegant evening themed “There’s no place like home,” a nod to the nonprofit’s efforts toward solving homelessness in Southern California. Event proceeds of close to $90K will fund emergency services for individuals and families in need.

LSSSC President and CEO Dr. LaSharnda Beckwith said, “I’m grateful for all of the support of this year’s special fundraising gala which allows us to thank and honor those who selflessly support our mission while raising funds to help us grow, prosper and increase the number of those we serve.”

An evening highlight was the 2024 H.O.P.E. (Helping Others Pursue Empowerment) Awards presentation. The Honorable Damon L. Alexander, City of San Bernardino, City Council Member, 7th Ward (while unable to attend) was recognized with the 2024 H.O.P.E. Award for his support of the Community Wellness Campus in his San Bernardino district. Other awardees were Stater Bros. Charities, Corporate Partner; the Kiwanis Club of Bonita, Community Partner; Ann Herring, Volunteer of the Year; and Joyce Seeger, Lifetime Commitment.

The evening began with a welcome reception, silent auction and celebratory champagne toast. Once inside the ballroom, there was a color guard posting of colors, national anthem and prayer preceding dinner, awards ceremony, speakers, live auction and musical entertainment. Special guest presenter was renowned motivational speaker and LSSSC CEO Dr. LaSharnda Beckwith as well as individuals served by the nonprofit’s life-saving initiatives.

From its humble beginnings in 1944 as a food pantry in San Diego, LSSSC is now licensed in six counties providing Community Wellness Campuses throughout Southern Calif. Services include case management and initiatives to end homelessness while supporting mental health recovery, victims of violence, feeding the hungry, connecting with seniors and mentoring youth.

Major event sponsors included Tovey/Shultz Construction, Inc., 60 Daisy, LLC, Stater Bros. Charities, Rev. Sharon and Dr. Daniel Richter, Enterprise Fleet Management, Rock of the Foothills Lutheran Church and KBRITE Radio.

For more information about Lutheran Social Services Southern California visit, www.lsssc.org.

About Lutheran Social Services of Southern California

For 80 years, Lutheran Social Services of Southern California (LSSSC) has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to helping the most vulnerable families and individuals in Southern California. LSSSC is a social ministry organization with the Lutheran Services of America, one of the largest health and human service networks in America. Partners and funders include the San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health, and US Departments of Education, Housing and Urban Development, Health and Human Services. The history of LSSSC dates back to 1944 when a handful of congregants from Lutheran churches in San Diego began providing services and resources to veterans returning home. This group joined with like-minded congregants in Los Angeles and formed Lutheran Social Services in 1946. Today, LSSSC employs almost 200 caring and dedicated staff that deliver more than 30 programs across six counties. Ignited by faith, they live out God’s love by embracing, equipping, and empowering vulnerable individuals, families and communities toward self-sufficiency.

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