The theme of this year’s Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards was “we’re going to gala like never before” and the team at JJLA helped DAP Health do just that. Instead of heading indoors for a traditional ballroom event at the Palm Springs Convention Center, the nearly 1000 seated dinner was outside, under the stars with the San Jacinto mountains acting as the perfect backdrop. Instead of walking on a red carpet – guests saw blue, honoring all the healthcare workers for their hard work during the pandemic.
Coming together for the first time in over two years, the reception was extended so guests could reconnect over drinks, enjoy music by Spencer Ludwig and Italian themed appetizers, provided by Lynne Toles’ Savoury’s Catering. No longer the formal plated dinner, instead guests enjoyed a delicious meal out of a bento box. This went hand-in-hand with the more relaxed feel of this year’s Chase and also helped the bottom line. A custom sticker on each box read “Fun Food Funds Care” which allowed DAP Health to use the savings from a traditional plated meal to go towards programs and services the nonprofit provides to its clients.
A gala wouldn’t be complete without entertainment and JJLA certainly delivered. Our host of TV, film and Broadway star Michael Urie hilariously guided guests on a journey, introducing them to some of Broadway and music’s most talented. Tony Award nominee Max von Essen kicked off the show with a medley of Broadway show tunes with legendary Broadway pianist, producer, and actor Seth Rudetsky on the keys. The lights provided by Ultimate Lighting went green as diva Eden Espinosa hit the stage, belting out “Defying Gravity” from her iconic role of Elphaba in Broadway’s Wicked. Lastly legendary, multi-platinum R&B artist Deborah Cox got everyone on their feet dancing, as she tore up the stage with a mixture of Broadway and dance hits to close out this fabulous show!
The year’s Chase Awards raised over $1.4 million dollars for the Coachella Valley’s leading healthcare resources.