Multiple people spoke during the recent Cape & Gown gala. Clockwise from top left: emcee Loni Love, Billie Eilish, Wesley Lowery, Emada Tingirides, Yarelly Rosas, LaRae & Royalty, Amelia Moran Ceja, Rob Reiner and Martine Singer (center.) (photo courtesy of the Children’s Institute)

At its third annual Cape & Gown Gala on Dec. 12, Children’s Institute Inc. raised $470,000 to support critical programs that serve Los Angeles communities. This year’s gala was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but nonetheless the event united 200 attendees in celebrating CII’s important work.

“We know firsthand how deeply trauma can adversely affect the health and well-being of those who have experienced great injustices. Experiencing racism is trauma. As an organization, we fight for equity every day. And as a nation, we must address racist policies in order for children and communities of color to reach their full potential,” CII President and CEO Martine Singer said.

Emceed by Emmy Award-winning TV host and author Loni Love, the evening featured Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Wesley Lowery, LAPD Deputy Chief Emada Tingirides, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Billie Eilish and acclaimed producer Rob Reiner.

Funds raised at the gala directly support CII’s early education, behavioral health and family strengthening programs. For information, visit childrensinstitute.org.