Parker Jewish Institute hosted its 2021 Drive-In Gala on Thursday, Sept. 30. A one-of-a-kind outdoor experience on Parker’s expansive campus, the Drive-In Gala featured live music from LA Blacksmith Band, food, beverage and fun. WCBS 880’s Marla Diamond served as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies.
Honoring Parker’s Health Care Heroes, the gala and all of its proceeds support the mission of enhancing programs and services for the Institute’s patients and residents, as well as support the 8,000 people who access Parker’s continuum of services each year.
Throughout the pandemic, Parker’s dedicated team members not only selflessly cared for patients but also comforted families from afar during unprecedented circumstances. What’s more, they sacrificed time away from their families to care for others, all for the greater good.
In addition to delivering quality and compassionate care, Parker continued to innovate amid the pandemic. This includes launching a COVID-19 testing site and a COVID-19 vaccination site for the community.
Parker launched a Family Call Center to help the Institute’s families stay connected. And it implemented recreational activities such as socially distanced baking as well as arts-and-crafts projects, concerts and more that engaged residents and kept them safe.
“Through every twist in the road and every new challenge faced, our health-care heroes were brave, comforting and strong,” Gerry Landsberg, vice chairman and past chair of the Institute’s Board of Trustees said.
“We remain at the forefront at Parker in our mission, our commitment to provide compassion and dedicated care,” Parker’s President and CEO Michael N. Rosenblut said. “It’s the wonderful team that’s here with us this evening, the team on duty in the building this evening – they’re the ones together that make it happen each and every day that deliver quality care to all of our residents and patients.”
“When COVID-19 shocked our world, Parker’s response was quick to protect our residents and staff. And Parker’s staff showed true courage on the frontlines of the pandemic,” said Dr. Igor Israel, Parker’s Chief Medical Officer. “Whatever needs our community presents, Parker Jewish Institute stands ready to serve and innovate.”
Rosenblut began the evening requesting a moment of silence in memory of Parker’s Chairman of the Board of Trustees Peter Seideman, who had died this week.
“Peter was a champion for the Parker organization for the residents, and for the Board,” Mr. Rosenblut said. “May his memory be a blessing.”
Parker also thanked community members who provided support through donations via the Institute’s meal train, personal protection equipment and more. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. The Drive-In Gala may be viewed online on Parker’s official Gala Website.
