Staff
In a celebration of service and community empowerment, the West Angeles Community Development Corporation (CDC) is set to honor two of its pioneering figures, Presiding Bishop Emeritus Charles E. Blake Sr. and Dr. Lula Ballton. The illustrious duo will be recognized for their considerable contributions during the 30-Year Legacy Annual Unity Awards Gala.
Established by the CDC in 1995, the Unity Awards—set for February 23 at the Beverly Regent Hotel— underscore the importance of altruism and community-centric corporate behavior by acknowledging the meritorious endeavors of individuals, families, and companies. This year, over 700 guests, including a host of Los Angeles’ most influential personalities across businesses, government, and faith communities, are anticipated to join the black-tie soiree, where the Unity Award will bestow recognition on a person of the year and an exceptional corporate citizen whose actions resonate with the CDC’s mission of faithful service and corporate integrity.
The gala won’t just be a nod to community service; but an evening of high-spirited entertainment with performances from acclaimed singer/songwriter David Daughtry, and talented pianist Shelea. The keynote address will be delivered by Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard.
The gala is also set to recognize US Bank for its “Outstanding Community Partner” role; with First Citizens Bank named “Outstanding Corporate Partner”; and Wells Fargo Bank, hailed as “Outstanding Corporate Citizen” of the Year.
The roots of the West Angeles CDC stretch back to the early nineties when the urgent need to address poverty and social injustices in the Crenshaw District of Los Angeles became evident. Co-founded by Bishop Blake and Dr. Ballton in conjunction with the West Angeles Church of God in Christ’s trustees, the CDC emerged as a beacon of hope, striving towards sustainable improvements across the community.
Now, after nearly three decades, the CDC stands tall as a developmental powerhouse, having overseen almost $50 million in real estate projects. They manage a myriad of programs and spearhead economic development in the Crenshaw Corridor, including ambitious projects like the upcoming Crenshaw Crossing, which promises affordable housing, job opportunities, a grocery store, and numerous other amenities. From a fledgling operating budget of $100,000, the CDC has burgeoned into an organization with an annual budget exceeding $2.5 million, a testament to the enduring vision and commitment of its founders and supporters.