JVS’ 9th Annual Strictly Business Luncheon was a resounding success, raising nearly $450,000 for the agency, due in large part to the generosity of Los Angeles real estate investor and renowned humanitarian Stanley Black, who was honored with JVS’ Business Leadership & Philanthropy Award. 

Black’s oft-quoted motto – “If you have much, give of your wealth; if you have little, give of your heart” – mirrors his lifelong commitment to philanthropic action.  This philosophy was definitely in play at the luncheon, as he announced that he and his wife Joyce would be making a gift of $100,000 from their family foundation.  He also challenged his 2007 successor to outdo him!

In his remarks, Black acknowledged the moving stories of his fellow honorees, all former JVS clients.

Ellen Rundle, Trevon Smith and Fortuna Ippoliti surmounted tremendous obstacles to meet their goals, and are a testament to what can be accomplished with help from JVS.  Rundle was engaged in a thriving career in graphic design and art direction when she developed serious physical disabilities that prevented her from maintaining traditional employment. 

Thanks to JVS’ Small Business Assessment Program, she was able to realize her dream of launching her own business.  Ippoliti, who struggled to re-enter the workforce after raising her children, faced innumerable hurdles before being referred to JVS. A graduate of the innovative WoMentoring Program, she is now Mayor Villaraigosa’s West Valley Area Director.  Smith was placed in foster care at age 11, weathered a staggering 18 placements in just over five years and wound up on probation.  When the time came for him to leave the system, he entered JVS’ Independent Living Program to make the transition to self-sufficiency.  He is currently attending college and working for L.A.County’s Internal Services Department.