On Saturday, March 8, 2025, Sycamores will be honoring Kathryn Barger, Los Angeles County Fifth District Supervisor, and Angela Padilla, President of FundaMental Change, with the Sycamores Celebrating Children Award at our annual Spring Gala. We are thrilled to recognize these two incredible leaders for their dedication to improving the lives of children, families, and adults in our community.
This special night at the iconic Jonathan Club in downtown Los Angeles will feature inspiration, delicious food, live/silent auctions, music, and fun—all in support of Sycamores’ essential behavioral health programs and services. The heart of the evening will be the presentation of the Celebrating Children Award to our honorees.
Supervisor Kathryn Barger has been a tireless advocate for the Fifth District, the largest in Los Angeles County, which spans 20 cities and 83 unincorporated communities. Over 35 years ago, Supervisor Barger began her career as an intern in the office of former Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich, rising through the ranks to become his chief deputy in 2001 and ultimately was elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2016. 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. Her leadership and commitment to fiscal responsibility and effective services have earned her widespread respect and admiration.
Angela Padilla is a mental health advocate whose commitment to this cause is deeply rooted in her personal experience. For nearly four decades, Angela’s mother, has lived with bipolar and schizoaffective disorders. Angela was motivated to earn her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master of Public Administration, with a focus on Health Administration, and to use her knowledge and passion to help others navigate mental health resources. Angela’s unique perspective has driven her to share her family’s journey and raise awareness about mental health challenges. Through FundaMental Change, Angela continues to be a powerful voice for mental health advocacy in schools, community organizations, and public forums.
We hope you’ll join us in celebrating these remarkable honorees and supporting our mission.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
Location: Jonathan Club, Downtown Los Angeles
Formal invitations will be mailed in early January. For more information, please contact Melissa Pittson at mpittson@sycamores.org or (626) 395-7100 Ext. 2018.
Stay tuned for more event updates!
