First published in the May 5 print issue of the Pasadena Outlook.
Photos by Keira Wight
The Outlook
Cancer Support Community Pasadena’s Angel gala, this year called “Evening in Capri,” was a record-breaking success for the organization.
Thanks to the generosity of guests and partners across the community, CSCP raised an unprecedented $390,000 to support the organization’s free programs and services for families facing cancer.
“It was a memorable night. Everyone was so happy to be together in person and everyone supported our mission so generously, so that no one faces cancer alone,” said Patricia Ostiller, executive director of CSCP. “We’re grateful to our gala chairs, committee, donors, hospital partners and sponsors for opening their hearts and sharing their resources so selflessly. CSCP’s supporters are remarkable, and we thank them for their support, hope and compassion for those who are facing cancer.”
Guests were transported to the shores of Capri as they sipped champagne and connected with friends old and new. The program featured testimonials from dozens of participants who have benefitted from CSCP’s programs and services, as well as a moving tribute by CSCP Board President Kal Balian Antoun to the late Liz Rusnak Arizmendi, who recently lost her battle with cancer. Rusnak was a former CSCP Angel Award recipient, guild member and beloved member of the CSCP community.
CSCP also extended special thanks to this year’s Angel Award honorees, Mike and Dana Naples and UBS Pasadena, for their support over the past decade, and to this year’s Angel Gala Premier Presenting Sponsor, Rusnak Auto Group.
“Not only did our guests shower the love on our honorees, Dana and Mike Naples and UBS, but our supporters also showered the love on those who need it most — people in our shared community who are impacted by cancer,” Ostiller said.
Since its first Angel gala, CSCP has raised more than $4 million from the annual event to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action and sustained by community.
Funds raised from CSCP’s 32nd annual Angel gala will support the organization’s efforts in sustaining and expanding programs offered free of charge to those facing cancer in Pasadena, East Los Angeles, the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding areas.
CSCP provides free support groups, educational workshops and healthy lifestyle classes to cancer patients, their families, cancer survivors and those bereaved in the greater San Gabriel Valley. Services are available in English, Spanish and Armenian.
For more information, visit cscpasadena.org, or call (626) 796-1083.
