The Helping Hand of Los Angeles, an 86-year-old support group of Cedars-Sinai, presented its annual Mother’s Day Luncheon, May 11, 2015 at The Beverly Hilton Hotel. The event honored multi-talented Emmy winner Ricki Lake and philanthropists Joyce Powell and daughters Linda, Nancy and Debbie with the “Mother of the Year” awards. Ellen Brooks, Helping Hand President, co-chaired, along with Nadine Glauberman, Bobbi Scherr and Betty Jane Bruck. Actress, comedienne, singer and author Lori Alan emceed the event, which included a fashion show by Melrose Alley presents EMMELLE New York, and a luxury boutique, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting The Helping Hand of Los Angeles. Special awards were presented to Bobbie Handel (“The Golden Hand Award” for outstanding dedication to the organization) and Lorraine Shapiro (“The Edith Strauss Award” for exceptional service and dedication as a volunteer in the Helping Hand Gift Shop.) A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of a check for $500,000 to the Cedars-Sinai Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, representing profits made at the Helping Hand Gift Shop. The Helping Hand of Los Angeles, founded in 1929, supports the Cedars-Sinai Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology helmed by Sarah Kilpatrick, MD, PhD. The group has raised more than $23 million.
