A West Hollywood resident was awarded a $7,500 donation to go toward the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund for his volunteer contributions.

AIG Life & Retirement annually honors employees who go above and beyond in serving their community with the AIG Life & Retirement Community Spirit Award. West Hollywood resident Steven Brancato was given the award for his work with the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund.

“AIG Life & Retirement is committed to building a brighter future in the communities where employees work and live by investing in programs and partnerships that leverage their skills, experience, knowledge and enthusiasm,” said Kevin Hogan, executive vice president and CEO of AIG Life & Retirement.

TLDEF is committed to ending discrimination based upon gender identity and expression and to achieving equality for transgender people. Brancato became involved through AIG’s Pro Bono Program, which partnered with TLDEF to provide legal representation to individuals who wish to change their legal names to match their gender identities.

“AIG’s support of the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund blends two important tenets of the AIG organization – giving back to communities and demonstrating support for diversity, equity and inclusion,” Brancato said. “As a gay man, AIG’s commitment to these principles resonates with me. It is a privilege to serve the TLDEF alongside my colleagues, and I am humbled by this recognition.”