Legacy Ladies, Inc. held its 20th Anniversary Celebration, the Torch Awards Gala, on June 29, at the Ritz Carlton in Marina del Rey.
According to the organizers, “This occasion honored the organization’s two decades of transformative work of empowering disenfranchised girls to become courageous leaders and productive global citizens.
“Founded with the mission to transform the lives of young girls through innovative programs, Legacy Ladies, Inc. has made a profound impact over the years.”
Under the leadership of Executive Director Jacqueline Castillo, the organization has developed programs such as Young Minds Matter Leadership Academy for elementary school girls and the award-winning, From the School House to The White House Leadership Academy, providing high school African American girls with unique leadership experiences. Since its inception in 2010, this leadership program has benefited over 800 girls.
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Additionally, over the past 20 years, Legacy Ladies, Inc. has awarded over $1.5 million in financial support, trips, and in-kind offerings to support families and girls. This year, the organization awarded seven graduating seniors with a $10,000 scholarship, laptop computer, and a $500 airline gift card. The recipients were Jayla Ducre, Charlee Franklin, Catelynn Jones, Onyinyechukwu Njoku, Darasimi Ogumeye, Arynn Patton, and Kiara Sims.
Also, the Torch Awards Gala honored Dr. Belinda Allen, executive director of the West Angeles Community Development Corporation; Lady Jacqueline Castillo, founder and executive director of Legacy Ladies; and Tammy Tumbling, executive vice-president and COO of the Orange County Community Foundation and founder of the African American Alliance Fund.
The evening was hosted by Chris Schauble, KTLA morning news anchor, and entertainment was provided by singer/songwriter Elaine Gibbs and NuSoul. The evening concluded with a toast from Noel Massie, retired vice-president of UPS’s U.S. Operations.
To learn more, visit www.legacyladiesinc.com.
