Caroline Rhea hosted the 32nd annual Friendly House awards on Nov. 19. (photo courtesy of Getty Images for
Friendly House)

The Friendly House 32nd annual awards luncheon on Nov. 19 honored Dina LaPolt (Visionary Award), Paul Williams (Person of the Year Award), Cheryl Burke (Shining Star Award), Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross, MD (Excellence in Service), Rika Broccoli (Peggy Albrecht Shining Star Award) and included a special in memoriam tribute to Carrie White.

Russell Brand kicked off the award show, held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, via hilarious virtual message, and Caroline Rhea, who shared about her comedy of errors experience at LAX before she arrived at the show served as luncheon host.

The afternoon was filled with poignant and moving testimonials by Friendly House alum and honorees sharing their stories of courage, faith and hope.

iann dior, in a deeply personal presentation, spoke of his own sobriety experience, before honoring entertainment attorney and activist Dina LaPolt whose 24-year recovery journey has impacted countless lives.

Cheryl Burke, newly celebrating four years of sobriety, accepted her honor in a heartfelt virtual acceptance which was presented by Friendly House executive director, Christina Simos.

Luncheon chair, Rika Broccoli was surprised and moved when she was unexpectedly honored with the Peggy Albrecht Shining Star Award bestowed upon her for her tireless service to Friendly House.

Lisa Loeb sang her Grammy Award-winning hit, “Stay,” then she and composer Eve Nelson performed a magnificent rendition of “Rainbow Connection” to honor the songs’ writer and Person of the Year recipient, Paul Williams who received his award from long-time college friend and former MusiCares exec, Harold Owens.

Also in attendance were Erika Jayne, Saffron Burrows, Kevin Kreider, Devon Diep, Shannon Dang, Natalee Linez, Brandy Ledford, Beth Broderick, Wesley Geer, Sydney Holland, Jonathan Heap, Julia Verdin and Mariana Williams.

The organization is supported by private donations, grants, fundraising efforts by the board of directors and Friendly House alumni, and two annual events including the award luncheon.

Riddle, The Songwriters of America, the Broccoli Foundation and LaPolt Law supported the luncheon, which was chaired by Rika Broccoli and Monique St. Pierre.

Friendly House is the leader in inclusive women’s alcohol and substance abuse recovery. The 71-year-old non-profit organization is the first residential program in the country created by women for women. For information, visit friendlyhousela.org.