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CASA/LA Benefit Raises $800,000 for Child Welfare & Juvenile Justice Services at Skirball Center

REIMAGINE Gala hosted by Topher & Ashley Grace raised funds at 10th annual event

By Staff Writer

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Los Angeles held its 10th Annual Gala event, renamed this year to the REIMAGINE GALA at the Skirball Cultural Center, raising over $800,000. 

The event was hosted by Topher and Ashley Grace and honored Film Producer, Founder of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition and CEO of One Community, LLC, Scott Budnick as well as Chair of the LA County Board of Supervisors, Holly J. Mitchell.

Attendees of the event included Topher Grace (Home Economics), Ashley Hinshaw-Grace (The Arrangement, Startup), Scott Budnick (War Dogs, The Hangover), Tia Carrera (AJ and the Queen, Wayne’s World), Haley Pullos (General Hospital, Red Riding Hoods), Wayne Wilderson (Veep, The Mick), JP Manoux (Veep) and LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.

“The fundraising event brings together volunteers and dedicated community members to honor Los Angeles leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to children, including children who have been abused or neglected and are living in foster care,” event organizers said. 

Previous honorees include actor Mario Lopez, Kathy Hilton, the Honorable Judge Michael Nash and Freeform Network’s “The Fosters.” 

CASA of Los Angeles is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that organizes community volunteers to take action and advocate for children and families impacted by LA County’s overburdened child welfare and juvenile justice systems. The children and youth served by CASA/LA come from historically underserved populations that have experienced the extraordinary consequences of racial disparities and structural inequality that lead to poverty, neglect and abuse. CASA volunteers help children in important ways such as comforting them through emotional trauma and transition, arranging for needed healthcare, social services or enrichment activities, talking with teachers to ensure educational services are in place and reporting to the children’s court and judges by attending court hearings and advocating for the child’s welfare.

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