Celebration filled the air as the West Angeles Community Development Corporation presented its 31st Annual Unity Awards. The evening gala, held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on Feb. 21, attracted hundreds of people who came out to salute three remarkable individuals and one corporate partner of WACDC.
WACDC Executive Director Dr. Belinda Allen and the organization’s board of directors announced that actress and producer Marla Gibbs was the recipient of the Living Legacy Award. The Community Empowerment Award was given to Dodgers outfielder and philanthropist Markus Lynn ‘Mookie” Betts. Dawn Patton, owner of Try My Tea, received the Small Business Award, and City National Bank was named Outstanding Corporate Partner.
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Acknowledging the honorees, Pastor Charles E. Blake II of West Angeles Church of God in Christ said, “Your commitment to community support, business development, and philanthropy has opened doors for individuals, families, and small businesses. Because of you, opportunities grow, dreams take shape and hope continues to shine.
Program participants included Chris Schable of KTLA 5, Elder Lawrence C. Blake of Palm Lane COGIC, and Bishop Ron Gibson of Life COGIC. Entertainment was provided by Chaz Lamar Shepard, harpist Mariea Antoinette, and liturgical dancers Ka’Lyn and Ky’Lah Hammack.
In addition to Pastor Blake and Dr. Allen, the WACDC Board of Directors consist of Chairman Byron K. Reed, Vice Chair Candid Mobley Phillips, CEO Emeritus Dr. Lula Ballton, Chairman Emeritus Bishop Charles E. Blake, Secretary Gregory L. Johnson, Treasurer Judge Mablean Ephriam, Gwen Austin-Collins, Dr. Giovanna Brasfield, Amy Gumbs, Sheryl Carey Harris, Winston Johnson, Terrance Payne, Dr. Desiree Tillman-Jones, Anne C. Smith, Esq., and Paige St. James.
