Historic Mission Inn is Site of Lutheran Social Services Gala

Lutheran Social Services of Southern California (LSSSC) - a leading provider of social services programs in Southern California - will mark its 80th year of service at their annual Gala & Awards on Friday, November 8 at the historic Mission Inn in Riverside. This year’s theme “There’s no place like home” is a nod to the nonprofit’s efforts toward solving homelessness in Southern California with event proceeds to fund emergency services for individuals and families in need.

LSSSC President and CEO Dr. LaSharnda Beckwith says, “Our annual gala not only allows us to fund and support our wide array of services in a variety of locations throughout Southern California, but gives a showcase to thank and honor those who selflessly support our mission and allow us to grow, prosper and increase the number of those we are able to serve.”

An evening highlight is 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 will receive the 2024 H.O.P.E. Award for his support of the Community Wellness Campus in his San Bernardino district. Other awardees include Stater Bros. Charities, Corporate Partner; the Kiwanis Club of Bonita, Community Partner; Ann Herring, Volunteer of the Year; and Joyce Seeger, Lifetime Commitment.

With a fundraising goal of $200K, the evening begins at 5:00 p.m. with welcome reception and silent auction followed by gourmet dinner, awards ceremony, speakers, live auction and musical entertainment. Special guest presenter is renowned motivational speaker and LSSSC CEO Dr. LaSharnda Beckwith in addition to 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.

Individual gala tickets are $250 while tables of 10 and other sponsorship opportunities are available on a limited basis. Major sponsors to date include Tovey/Shultz Construction, Inc., Stater Bros. Charities, Rev. Sharon and Dr. Daniel Richter, Enterprise Fleet Management, Rock of the Foothills Lutheran Church and KBRITE Radio.

For tickets or to learn more about Lutheran Social Services Southern California visit, www.lsssc.org or call Frances Hale at 714.459.3034. The Mission Inn is located at 3649 Mission Inn Avenue in Riverside and complimentary parking will be provided.

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, we live out God’s love by embracing, equipping and empowering vulnerable people in Southern California.

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