The event took place on Thursday, May 30, at the Skirball Cultural Center, and was hosted by local broadcasting icon Fritz Coleman.
Los Angeles, May 31, 2024 – Last night, JVS SoCal held its 25th Annual Strictly Business Awards Dinner, which honors outstanding individuals and corporations in our community who have set the standard for social responsibility and philanthropy. The annual celebration raises money to advance JVS SoCal’smission to empower individuals through sustainable employment with our innovative and impactful programs and services.
This year’s Corporate Partnership Award was presented to Edison International, a 13-year partner that has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the communities we serve through grants that support our workforce development and career pathways programs.
“Edison International’s invaluable support has enabled JVS SoCal to provide comprehensive employment, housing, and mental health services to Veterans across Southern California,” says JVS SoCal Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Carr. “Together, we are making a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals in our community.”
“We are proud to partner with JVS SoCal and support veterans’ transition back into the workforce as it honors their service, harnesses their skills and strengthens our communities,” said Tom Guntrip, Southern California Edison director of Transportation Services. “We are honored to receive this prestigious recognition from JVS SoCal and remain committed to empowering positive change for our veteran workforce.”
The award was presented by last year’s Corporate Partnership Awardee, Dr. Howard G. Berger, co-founder & CEO of national radiology firm, RadNet.
Attendees also celebrated three program participants who have overcome adversity to chart a sustainable and fulfilling course for their careers with Strictly Business Inspiration awards.
This year’s Inspiration Awardees included Gonzalo Aguilar, who found a pathway to a successful banking career through one of JVS SoCal’s signature career training programs; and, Jannesa Fernandez, a Navy Veteran who is using the skills she learned towards helping the veteran community.
About JVS SoCal
Founded in 1931, JVS SoCal is a nonprofit, non-sectarian social service agency, providing job training, career services, mentoring and placement assistance to diverse and multicultural populations, transforming lives and empowering individuals to achieve dignity and economic independence through sustainable employment. With over 20 locations throughout Southern California, JVS SoCal currently serves over 30,000 clients annually in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange Counties.