Gala Honors Supervisor Kathryn Barger and Angela Padilla
On Saturday, March 8, Sycamores welcomed supporters to its Celebrating Children Gala at the historic Jonathan Club in downtown Los Angeles. The elegant evening brought guests together in a shared commitment to raising funds for Sycamores’ vital behavioral health programs, which serve communities across Los Angeles and Riverside Counties, including those affected by recent wildfires. Attendees enjoyed a gourmet three-course dinner, thrilling auctions, and a special live performance by award winning composer and music director Gregory Nabours and singer/actress Emma Hunton. Hosted by Emmy-winning TV host Erica Olsen, the evening also featured inspiring stories from individuals who have found hope and healing through Sycamores’ programs, highlighting the organization’s life-changing impact.
The centerpiece of the evening was the presentation of the Sycamores Celebrating Children Award, honoring Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, and Angela Padilla, Founder & President of FundaMental Change. Both honorees have shown exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to improving the lives of children, families, and adults across Los Angeles County.
Throughout her career, Supervisor Barger has championed vital public safety initiatives and spearheaded efforts to enhance mental health services, preserve open spaces, and improve the quality of life for foster children, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. The Supervisor has also been at the forefront of recovery for cities, businesses, families and individuals impacted by the recent fires.
Although she was not able to attend in person, Supervisor Barger shared a heartfelt video message expressing her support for Sycamores. “I’m so humbled to receive the Celebrating Children Award and grateful for my partnership with the amazing team at Sycamores. Your work to support foster youth, connect children and families with mental health support and uplift people experiencing homelessness closely aligned with my priorities.” She also acknowledged that in the wake of the Eaton fire, the needs of local families are greater than ever.
Angela Padilla, a passionate mental health advocate, draws on her personal experience to raise awareness of mental health challenges. For nearly four decades, Angela’s mother has lived with bipolar and schizoaffective disorders, motivating Angela to earn degrees in psychology and public administration, with a focus on Health Administration. Angela’s unique perspective has driven her to share her family’s journey and raise awareness about mental health challenges. As the Founder and President of FundaMental Change, she continues to be a powerful voice for mental health advocacy in schools, community organizations, and public forums.
Sycamores President and CEO Debra Manners presented the award to Angela Padilla, who used her acceptance speech to continue advocating for greater access to mental health services. “One thing I know for certain is that the need is only growing,” she emphasized. She also expressed gratitude to the evening’s supporters, saying, “Thank you all for being here tonight for supporting this wonderful organization. Please continue to give—and give generously if you are able. Your dollars will go a long way.”
The Gala was attended by some 240 guests and raised over $430,000, with proceeds directly benefiting Sycamores’ child welfare and behavioral health programs. These funds will have a profound impact on the lives of over 25,000 vulnerable children, youth, and families annually throughout Southern California.
Special thanks are extended to the 2025 Gala Committee: Co-chairs Laura Baker and Christina Bang, Auction Chair Megan Browne, Decor Chair Clemmy Closson, in addition to Aubrey Closson, Jan Emamian, Tiffany Heartley, Ashley Housman, and Karen Palmersheim. Deep gratitude additionally is expressed to this year’s Celebrating Children major sponsors, including Brad & Lisa Freer; Capital Group; Gallagher; American Business Bank; Gary Braverman; Children’s Hospital Los Angeles; Michele & Todd Doney; Krissy & Mike Gitlin; Kaiser Permanente; Preferred Partners Insurance Agency; Roger W. Stephens; Alan Berro; CBE Office Solutions; Duane Thierry & John Drinker; Gayle & Michael Galper; Lucas Horsfall; The Morrison & Foerster Foundation; Nancy & Glenn Pittson; Synoptek Inc.; Arcina Risk Group; Ballard Rosenberg Golper & Savitt, LLP; LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger; Chorus; Cigna; Dignity Health; Driver SPG; FundaMental Change; GHJ; Hahn & Hahn; LA County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath; Renée LaBran & Malcolm Boyd; LT Electrical & Construction Co; Pasadena Tournament of Roses; Ellen & Anthony Portantino; Linda & John Seiter; Sonia A. Solin & Christopher J. Aldrich; Vx Inc.; and media sponsors Outlook Newspapers and Pasadena Now.
