On September 30th, 2025, PACE celebrated its 50th Anniversary Gala at the historic Biltmore Los Angeles. Nearly 500 guests came together to celebrate PACE’s half-century legacy, including government leaders, corporate and community partners, and supporters from across the region.
The evening, hosted by Emmy Award-winning ABC7 news anchor David Ono, featured powerful performances, moving stories, and tributes to PACE’s five decades of community empowerment. The program kicked off with a Taiko drum performance by LA Taiko Collective, followed by welcome remarks from PACE President & CEO Kerry Doi.
Guests heard inspiring words from Supervisor Hilda Solis, Senator Maria Elena Durazo, Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, and Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, who spoke the impact of PACE’s work and the importance of expanding economic opportunity for underserved communities.
The event also featured powerful client stories that brought PACE’s mission to life, along with a traditional Korean fan dance performed by the Jung Im Lee Korean Dance Academy.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of three special awards honoring community leaders and partners who embody PACE’s mission:
Mia Yamamoto – Empowerment Leader Award
A pioneering criminal defense attorney and lifelong advocate for civil rights, Mia Yamamoto was recognized for her extraordinary courage and decades of work advancing equity, especially for the LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities.Warren Furutani – Lifetime Achievement Award
An educator, activist, and former California State Assemblymember, Warren Furutani was honored for his lifelong dedication to civil rights, education, and community empowerment—including preserving the legacy of Japanese American incarceration during WWII.U.S. Bank – Community Champion Award
Honored for its deep investment in building stronger communities, U.S. Bank was recognized for its long-standing partnership with PACE and commitment to expanding economic opportunity across Los Angeles.
“For 50 years, PACE has been rooted in the belief that everyone deserves opportunity, dignity, and the chance to thrive,” said Kerry Doi, PACE President & CEO. “Tonight, we not only celebrated our legacy but also renewed our commitment to empowering economic opportunity for generations to come.”
View our event photo album and recap video.
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