On Saturday, September 27th, FreeRent LA hosted its inaugural gala, “Wings of Gratitude: A Night FreeRent LA Takes Flight,” at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. The evening brought together community leaders, advocates, and supporters to raise awareness and resources for families in need of housing stability. Esteemed guests gathered in support of FreeRent LA’s commitment to offering rental assistance and wraparound services that help working households maintain housing and build pathways toward long-term stability.
VIP attendees, supporters and donors enjoyed an elegant evening with curated cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, premiere chef stations and entertainment, while learning about FreeRent LA’s mission to provide rental assistance and wraparound services to families facing housing insecurity. The gala highlighted the organization’s dedication to empowering families toward long-term stability and generational financial success.
The event was attended by FreeRent LA Board Members and local supporters, including Trixy Castro, CJ Russell, NBA Legend Dominique Wilkins, Jedidia Wilkins, Dr. Jacob Rastegar, Jasmine Rastegar, Terri Ewing, Daniel Dorfman, Philippe Haddad, and Mellisa Nielson.
VIPs and influencers joining the celebration included Holly Robinson Peete, Erin Ziering, MMA Fighter Bear Fiorda, Martin Rodriguez, Kate Linder, Patrika Darbo, Max Ehrich, Ashley Paul, Eve Richards, Kennedy Garcia, Dr. Robert Dorfman, Blanca Blanco, Tobie Windham, Merrick McCartha, Dustin Quick, Valeria Maldonado, Angelique Bate, Latasha Pippen, Jasmine Davis, Lady Summer Helene, Young Retro, Jenna Hill, Faith Barrett, Anthony Fernandez, Paige Jenna, Joel Diamond, Natalie Mejia, Bernard Gulla, John Buyers, Vanessa Buyers, Dr. Bill Dorfman, Christopher Bates, Crystal Rivers, Yan Tual, Lauren Mathis, Medi Em, Monalisa Okojie, Nicole and Ion Muj, Charisse Mannolini, Amy Jones, Isani Griffith, William Clevinger, Tommy Bina, Michael Von, Bryan James, Cassi Castro, Adam Tsekhman, Alice Amter, and many others.
FreeRent LA is part of the national FreeRent initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting working families who face unexpected hardships that place them at risk of housing instability. By offering rental assistance and comprehensive wraparound services, FreeRent helps families remain housed and build long-term financial security. Following the success of FreeRent Atlanta, which has empowered over 100 families to achieve financial independence, the Los Angeles expansion marks a bold next step in the organization’s mission to strengthen communities across the nation.
The engaging live auction raised funds through exclusive experiences and luxury items led by world class auctioneer Mellisa Nielsen of Charity Angels, which included “Master Chefs of France“– Dinner by Five world renowned French Master Chefs(Steve Benjamin, David Serus, Bernard Guillas, Philippe Haddad, Eric Branger)with a Private Wine Pairing Dinner for 12 Guests by Fraiche Wine Group, “A Barrel of Liquid Gold“ – Private Single BarrelBourbon Experience for 5 guests by Larry Dorfman of Shortbarrel Distillery in Atlanta Georgia inclusive of Delta flights, “Private 33 Taps Arcade Room Buyout“ inclusive of a 3-Hour Private Buyout Experience for 85 guests in downtown LA, a “Private Jet x Cabo Getaway“ inclusive of a 3 night stay in Cabo San Lucas at a 5 star private residence in Punta Ballena, “An Ultimate Sports Experience“ inclusive of two 2 Lakers suite tickets, 2 Clippers lower level tickets, 2 Rams lower level tickets, and 2 Chargers lower level tickets in premium seats, 4 VIP passes, and finally a “VIP Nascar Package” with Xfinity Series ultimate race day giveaway – driver introductions, pit box seating, garage access, autographed merch, and lunch included on the track, with the option of Phoenix or Vegas for the race, inclusive of flight & hotel. In addition, guests engaged in a ticketed raffle for a beautiful diamond tennis bracelet by Raine Jewelry.
FreeRent LA is expanding its proven model from Atlanta, where 100 families achieved financial independence, to Los Angeles. Proceeds from the evening will directly benefit programs that deliver rental assistance and supportive services to those at risk of housing instability. Visit www.freerent.org for more info.
Featured Photo: Holly Davidson Peete, Terri Ewing
Photos: Rob Latour / Shutterstock for FreeRent LA; Lizeth Ramirez; Tshombe Sampson.
