Court Appointed Special Advocates of Los Angeles organized its eight annual “Evening to Foster Dreams Gala” online with the help of celebrity friends, staff and volunteers on May 5.

Each year CASA/LA fundraises for its advocacy programs that support children in L.A. County’s child-welfare system who experienced abuse and neglect. CASA/LA’s “Evening to Foster Dreams Gala” is an annual million-dollar fundraising event, which accounts for almost 25% of the charity’s operating budget, CASA/LA CEO Wende Julien said.

“We’re adjusting to our current reality, and while we have successfully adapted our services and advocacy for the youth we work with, there is no replacing something like our annual gala,” Julien said. “However, our amazing staff and donors have stepped up to create something wonderful that people can still watch, take part in and be touched by. This will be an incredible evening to share, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

The event CASA/LA Live! was live streamed at casala.org, YouTube and Facebook, and Topher and Ashley Grace led the ceremony. Celebrities Rachel Bilson, Rhea Perlman, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Andy Grammer and Alan Muraoka of “Sesame Street” made special appearances, and “Hamilton” star Kyrstal Joy Brown and rapper 24kGoldn performed for the event.

Former CASA/LA youth in the child-welfare system shared their experiences through spoken word poetry too. The gala honored L.A. leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to these children.

Previous honorees include Kathy Hilton and Mario Lopez.

CASA/LA also organized an auction with prizes spanning from local restaurants to weekend getaways and full two week vacations, which were donated by local and national companies and individuals. For information, visit casala.org.