Mar. 9, 2012

The Alliance for Children’s Rights, an organization that coordinates legal services, health care and education for impoverished children in Los Angeles County, celebrated its 20th anniversary with a dinner gala at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on March 1. As part of the festivities, the alliance presented law firm Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP with the Francis M. Wheat community service award, recognizing the firm’s 20-year pro bono partnership with the organization. Appropriately, the honor, which is presented annually to an exceptional alliance volunteer or volunteer group, was named for former Gibson Dunn partner Francis M. Wheat, the alliance’s original founder. Partner Scott Edelman received the award on behalf of the firm. Emmy Award-winning actress Jane Lynch, known for her role as Sue Sylvester in the FOX comedy “Glee,” was the evening’s master of ceremonies. Actress and musician Zooey Deschanel of FOX’s “New Girl” and the band She & Him performed three songs in a set she called “two standards and a Patsy.” The evening’s program also included video and in-person presentations by children and families who’ve benefitted from the alliance’s aid. The gala raised over $1.2 million for the alliance’s ongoing efforts.