On October 21st, The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert (The Center) welcomed over 500 guests at their annual fundraiser, Center Stage 2022.
Rob Wheeler, executive director and CEO of The Center addressed the crowd of 525, saying, “we are truly stronger together, and our LGBTQ+ community and allies showed up for The Center and our honorees in ways that left me inspired and eager to continue delivering on The Center’s promise of helping our LGBTQ+ community and to partner with organizations committed to fight for equality and liberation.”
While Center Stage reminded us there is still much to fight for, there is also much to celebrate.
- The Legacy Award recognizes the lasting impact made on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community. This year, it was awarded to Jeremy Hobbs and the Western Wind Foundation and Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest.
- Earlier in October, the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized The Center with the Non-profit of the Year award.
Eisenhower Health was the evening’s presenting sponsor, while premier sponsors included Harold Matzner, David Hood and George Sellers and Contractors State License Schools. Nearly $250,000 was raised by the event’s auction alone, including $100,000 matching funds provided by David Mizener and Arturo Carrillo of Contractors State License Schools and a $20,000 match offered by Steve Tobin and Johnny Krupa of the Grace Helen Spearman Charitable Foundation.
Thank you to all Harold’s fellow sponsors in supporting The Center!