The Lo Maximo benefit raised nearly $1.9 million. (photo courtesy of Homeboy Industries)

Homeboy Industries held the 22nd annual Lo Máximo Awards on March 29, celebrating the 10,000 people who walk through the organization’s doors each year in search of a new life.

Lo Máximo – “the best of us” – recognizes Homeboy and Homegirl Heroes, alumni of the 18-month program who embody resilience and transformation. Homeboy Industries honored Kanaka Luna Jennings, a program director at nonprofit Grandview Foundation, and Hugo Gonzalez, a nonprofit leader and gang interventionist, both living testaments to second chances. Homeboy also recognized Brenda and Stéphane Bancel for their commitment to building movements of kinship, and Thomas Vozzo for his 12 years of visionary leadership as Homeboy’s first CEO.

With a generous matching gift from the Johnny Carson Foundation, nearly 1,100 guests and donors raised nearly $1.9 million during the event at the JW Marriott in Downtown L.A. For information, visit homeboyindustries.org/lomaximo 2025.