Event Raised a Record-Breaking $3.6 Million
LOS ANGELES (June 16, 2022) – Tonight, the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) hosted its 6th Annual Blue Diamond Gala at Dodger Stadium, presented by LADF Chairman Mark Walter and the Los Angeles Dodgers Ownership Group. The sold out, star-studded evening featured sets by award-winning celebrity DJ D-Nice and an exclusive concert from global superstar Jennifer Lopez. A record-breaking $3.6 million was raised to support LADF in their mission to improve education, health care, homelessness, and social justice for all Angelenos.
“This year’s gala reflects our endless potential when we combine our efforts and insist on making a difference in the lives of those who need help the most,” said Nichol Whiteman, CEO, Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation. “Tonight, we honored our comprehensive work but we also recognized the individuals who voluntarily jumped into the unknown, pushing past fear to help Angelenos navigate these trying times. We do not take tonight’s magic for granted and we are grateful to gather in person to highlight our mission.”
Emcees Mario Lopez and Adrián González hosted the “Everyday Champions” program where guests heard from Dante Reese, a youth program participant of Brotherhood Crusade. Los Angeles Dodgers Owner Mark Walter and Los Angeles Lakers Owner Jeanie Buss auctioned off a pair of 2020 Championship Rings.
Attendees included Los Angeles Dodgers players Yency Almonte, Eddy Alvarez, Tyler Anderson, Austin Barnes, Cody Bellinger, Mookie Betts, Walker Buehler, Caleb Ferguson, Freddie Freeman, Tony Gonsolin, Brusdar Graterol, Andrew Heaney, Daniel Hudson, Clayton Kershaw, Gavin Lux, Max Muncy, Evan Phillips, Kevin Pillar, David Price, Will Smith, Chris Taylor, Justin Turner, Trea Turner, Julio Urías and Alex Vesia, Manager Dave Roberts, Coaches Bob Geren, Clayton McCullough, Dino Ebel, Josh Bard, Aaron Bates, Connor McGuiness and Danny Lehmann, Hall of Fame Broadcaster Jaime Jarrin, Los Angeles Sparks players Nneka Ogwumike, Kristi Toliver, Brittney Sykes, Chiney Ogwumike, and additional special guests including Ben Affleck, tennis champion Venus Williams, Dave Winfield, Vanessa Calloway, Cookie Johnson, EJ Johnson, Darren Barnet, and many more!
Other notable moments included performances from the Inglewood High School Marching Band, the MACES Band, and the Woodcraft Rangers Mariachi and Folklorico Program from Middleton Elementary School. The evening ended with a post-show party featuring Dodgers DJ Severe and food from California Pizza Kitchen, Dunkin’, Melissa’s Produce, Milk Bar and In-N-Out.