What an amazing day for The Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation as we watched our first Leeza’s Place in California open to a packed house of friends, supporters and community members in need. Our partner, Circle of Care Foundation, helped us to create what is one of our most lovely Leeza’s Places – a space filled with light, soft colors and comfortable places to relax while getting educated, empowered and energized!

At 11 am that day, our dedication ceremony began with an address from Susan Koening of the Circle of Care Foundation. Senator Brad Sherman then presented a flag that has flown over the capital and was followed by State Assemblyman Lloyd Levine, who presented proclamations. A representative from Councilman Wendy Gruehl’s office also welcomed Circle of Care Leeza’s Place to the community. LGMF executive director Jamie Huysman spoke about the important work that will be accomplished for the Sherman Oaks in the space and Leeza spoke of her personal commitment to helping caregivers in honor of her mother and grandmother. Our care advocate Stefanie Elkins was also introduced and invited those in attendance to attend upcoming classes and programs.

Our Memory Television family for this day was the beautiful Anderson family – Pam and husband Paul, their handsome son Jayce, and Paul’s mother Ellis. Thank you for sharing your stories with us and for inspiring others to follow your lead and hopefully recording their own precious memories.

Special thanks to all the corporate supporters of Circle of Care Leeza’s Place: Gelb Enterprises, CORT Furniture, The Crafters Connection, Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Gelsons, KB Home Inland Valley Division, Ken Cranes Home Entertainment City, Photowow.com-the store, Carmel Senior Care, Autumn Leaves, Pottery Barn and Thea Segal Designs.

Very special thanks to our care advocate Stefanie Elkins and Paula Kupiec, acting executive director of Circle of Care Foundation, both of whom worked tirelessly to ensure that Circle of Care Leeza’s Place would open for visitors on time. Many thanks also to all our volunteers for the day including Stefanie’s mom, dad, sister and friends. Your support and willingness to give is so appreciated.

It was a lovely day in a lovely space and we know that our mission of serving caregivers will be futhered here with love, respect and dignity for all who enter these doors.