FreeRent LA Takes Flight with Inaugural “Wings of Gratitude” Gala at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills

by | Oct 1, 2025

On Saturday, September 27th, FreeRent LA hosted its first-ever charity gala, “Wings of Gratitude: A Night FreeRent LA Takes Flight,” at the iconic Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. The evening united community leaders, philanthropists, and advocates to raise awareness and resources for families in need of housing stability.

Guests enjoyed a glamorous night of curated cocktails, premier chef stations, and live entertainment while learning about FreeRent LA’s mission to provide rental assistance and wraparound services that empower families to remain housed and achieve long-term financial independence.

FreeRent LA hosted its inaugural “Wings of Gratitude” gala at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, bringing together community leaders and supporters to celebrate families achieving housing stability.

The gala welcomed a distinguished roster of attendees, including FreeRent LA Board Members, local supporters, and notable names such as Trixy Castro, CJ Russell, NBA Legend Dominique Wilkins, Jedidia Wilkins, Dr. Jacob Rastegar, Jasmine Rastegar, Terri Ewing, Daniel Dorfman, Philippe Haddad, and Mellisa Nielson.

Trixy Castro on stage at FreeRent LA’s first gala at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, supporting programs that provide rental assistance and services for families in need.

Mellisa Nielson on stage at FreeRent LA’s first gala at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, supporting programs that provide rental assistance and services for families in need.

VIPs and influencers joining the celebration included Holly Robinson Peete, Erin Ziering, MMA Fighter Bear Fiorda, Martin Rodriguez, Kate Linder, Patrika Darbo, Max Ehrich, Ashley Paul, Eve Richards, Kennedy Garcia, Dr. Robert Dorfman, Blanca Blanco, Tobie Windham, Merick McCartha, Dustin Quick, Valeria Maldonado, Angelique Bate, Latasha Pippen, Jasmine Davis, Brenda Mejia, Lady Summer Helene, Young Retro, Jenna Hill, Faith Barrett, Anthony Fernandez, Paige Jenna, Joel Diamond, Natalie Mejia, Bernard Gulla, John Buyers, Vanessa Buyers, Dr. Bill Dorfman, Christopher Bates, Crystal Rivers, Yan Tual, Lauren Mathis, Medi Em, Monalisa Okojie, Charisse Mannolini, Amy Jones, Isani Griffith, William Clevinger, Tommy Bina, Michael Von, Bryan James, Cassi Castro, Adam Tsehkman, and Alice Amter.

Holly Robinson Peete attended FreeRent LA’s first gala at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, supporting programs that provide rental assistance and services for families in need.

MMA Fighter Bear Fiorda attended FreeRent LA’s first gala at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, supporting programs that provide rental assistance and services for families in need.

Highlights of the evening included a lively charity auction featuring luxury travel getaways, fine jewelry, curated fashion packages, VIP sporting experiences, and exclusive wellness treatments—raising vital funds to support FreeRent LA’s programs.

Jedidia Wilkins and Dominique Wilkins on stage at FreeRent LA’s first gala at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, supporting programs that provide rental assistance and services for families in need.

Bernard Gullas, Philippe Haddad, and Mellisa Nielsen on stage at FreeRent LA’s first gala at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, supporting programs that provide rental assistance and services for families in need.

Following the proven success of FreeRent Atlanta, which has already helped over 100 families achieve financial independence, FreeRent LA marks the next chapter in the organization’s nationwide mission to combat housing insecurity and strengthen communities.

✨ Learn more or get involved at www.freerent.org.

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