L.A.’s iconic Pink’s Hot Dogs owner Gloria Pink announced on Thursday, November 13, that profits from their popular “Martha Stewart” dog will be donated to the JVS SoCal Women’s Leadership Network (WLN) to support the agency’s incredible career training and support programs. Gloria, her husband Richard Pink and Beverly Pink-Wolfe made the pledge at the 13th Annual Woman to Woman Conference: “Women: Creating a Brighter Tomorrow,” where they received the Impact Award for their philanthropic work and engagement in the community.
“True success isn’t just about profits-it’s about purpose,” said Gloria after receiving the award, “giving back connects us to the community that built us.” In addition to the month-long Martha Stewart Hot Dog sales proceeds pledge, the Pinks generously sponsored this signature event along with other event underwriters.
The conference, which took place at the Skirball Cultural Center on November 13, 2025, brought together hundreds of women leaders, entrepreneurs, and public officials for an afternoon of inspiration, connection, and transformation.
The WLN created this event to support JVS SoCal’s life-changing programs which provide free career training, mentoring, and job placement services to people in need across Southern California.
JVS SoCal’s WLN also honored Diedra Porché, National Head of Community and Business Development at JPMorgan Chase with the Rosaline L. Zuckerman Women’s Empowerment Award for her commitment to creating access and opportunity for women in business.
Throughout the event guests were reminded that every woman has the power to ignite change as they heard inspiring testimonials from JVS SoCal program participants Kristen Cunningham and Niclette Massamba whose lives were changed by the organization’s career development services.
They enjoyed the teachings of inspirational Keynote speakers: Bonnie Abaunza, a social impact producer and human rights advocate known for her work advancing justice and equality through storytelling, and Rachael Worby, Artistic Director and Conductor of MUSE/IQUE whose performances dissolve the boundaries between stage and audience, reminding that art, like leadership, holds the power to unite, restore, and inspire change.
The program was hosted by multi-award-winning journalists Giselle Fernández and Lisa McRee Spectrum News 1 anchors.
The 2025 conference was made possible through the generosity of Terri and Jerry Kohl (Presenting Sponsors); US Bank, The Don Levin Trust and Ann & Don Levin, Jill and Harris Smith, the Susan W. Robertson — of blessed memory (Empowerment Sponsors). Their dedication to women’s advancement continues to sustain JVS SoCal’s mission and impact.
JVS SoCal Chief Executive Officer Jeff Carr thanked the JVS SoCal Staff, members of the Women’s Leadership Network and all guests for attending and lending their power to the JVS SoCal’s mission. “None of this could be possible without the tremendously generous supporters…thank you for opening the door for others.”
For inquiries about the event participants, please contact fabiola.martinez@jvs-socal.org. For more information about JVS SoCal’s programs and services, visit: jvs-socal.org/
About JVS SoCal
JVS SoCal is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve sustainable employment and financial independence. With a wide range of career training, employment and human services, JVS SoCal helps people across Southern California realize their professional potential.
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