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An Evening of Celebration and Giving at Sycamores’ Annual Celebrating Children Gala

March 31, 2025

The Jonathan Club in downtown Los Angeles was the setting for an unforgettable evening as Sycamores hosted its annual Celebrating Children Gala on Saturday, March 8th. The event brought together supporters to raise funds for Sycamores’ crucial behavioral health programs serving Riverside and Los Angeles Counties, with a special focus on those impacted by recent wildfires.


Guests were treated to a sumptuous three-course dinner prepared by the Jonathan Club’s chefs. The evening was filled with live music, exciting auctions, and moving testimonials from individuals whose lives have been transformed through Sycamores’ services.

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The highlight of the gala was the presentation of the Sycamores Celebrating Children Award to two exceptional leaders. Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, was recognized for her tireless advocacy for the Fifth District. With a career spanning over 35 years, she has championed public safety initiatives, mental health services, and improved quality of life for foster children, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Angela Padilla, President of FundaMental Change, was honored for her passionate mental health advocacy. Drawing from personal experience with her mother’s bipolar and schizoaffective disorders, Padilla has become a powerful voice for mental health awareness in schools, community organizations, and public forums.


Debbie Manners, President and CEO of Sycamores, emphasized the gala’s significance in the wake of recent wildfires, including the devastating Eaton Fire. The gala was co-chaired by Laura Baker and Christina Bang, both residents of La Cañada Flintridge and dedicated Sycamores supporters. Baker, the Southern California/Nevada Health Business Leader at Mercer and a Sycamores Board member, joined forces with Bang, President of Bang Licensing Group, to lead this impactful event.


The Celebrating Children Gala successfully raised funds to support Sycamores’ child welfare and behavioral health programs. These vital services impact over 25,000 vulnerable children, youth, and families annually throughout Southern California, providing crucial support to those in need.


The event not only celebrated the achievements of its honorees but also reinforced the community’s commitment to supporting mental health services and recovery efforts in the aftermath of recent natural disasters.


This post is based on an article from Pasadena Now. Read the full version here.

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