Latest news with #BHERC
Associated Press
20 hours ago
- General
- Associated Press
BHERC Operation Love Hosts Special Gathering To Honor Fathers Leading Through Crisis
As communities continue to rebuild from the devastating January firestorms, the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) Operation Love announces a distinct celebration Saturday, June 14, dedicated to senior fathers who have shouldered the immense burden of keeping their families and communities together during one of the most challenging periods in recent memory. Following the overwhelming outpouring of gratitude for Operation Love's Mother's Day event in May that served over 150 senior mothers and their families, it became clear that the next endeavor should focus on addressing the unique needs of senior men who have served as pillars of strength for their families and communities. This experience, part of BHERC Operation Love's fourth iteration of tangible community support, provide recognition of the senior father who stands behind every family's survival story, who has worked tirelessly—often while processing his own trauma—to provide stability, hope, and strength for those depending on him. These seasoned men, drawing from decades of life experience, have become the steady foundation upon which entire extended families have relied during the recovery process. 'These senior men have been the steady hands in the storm, the voices of reassurance when everything felt uncertain,' said Sandra J. Evers-Manly, President of BHERC Operation Love. 'While they've focused on everyone else's needs, we want to focus on theirs. This celebration is specifically designed to acknowledge the sacrifices of our senior fathers and provide them with the mental health support and community connection they desperately need.' Recognized as a hidden struggle, in the aftermath of the January firestorms, many senior fathers have found themselves serving as the primary emotional and logistical anchors for their families—coordinating insurance claims, securing temporary housing, maintaining employment, and reassuring children and grandchildren—all while grappling with their own loss and uncertainty. They often carry additional burdens, supporting not just their immediate families but also serving as advisors and resources for their adult children's families affected by the fires. Mental health experts emphasize that senior fathers in crisis often suppress their own emotional needs to maintain their role as protectors and providers. This celebration aims to create a safe space where these distinguished men can step away from that role temporarily and receive the love, appreciation and support they deserve. BHERC promises an unforgettable experience featuring powerhouse vocalist Elaine Gibbs, whose world-class musical performance will uplift spirits and remind attendees of the joy that persists even in difficult times. Rev. George Cowart will perform inspirational gospel music, delivering soul-stirring melodies, food for the soul and mind that speak directly to the hearts of senior fathers who have carried so much for so many. BHERC Operation Love has crafted a comprehensive celebration that goes beyond recognition to create genuine moments of joy and connection specifically tailored for senior men. The event will include a delicious brunch, engaging trivia activities, and special prizes including recognition for the oldest dad in attendance—a tribute particularly meaningful to this celebration's focus on honoring our senior fathers. True to Operation Love's tradition of creating deeply meaningful moments, there will be a surprise special gift addressing a particular need—but attendees must be present to witness this surprise that consistently brings tears of joy to everyone in the room. Each senior father will also receive a special gift as a token of appreciation for their unwavering dedication to their families and community across the decades. This gathering represents the fourth event as part of the recovery initiative from BHERC Operation Love since the firestorms struck, demonstrating the organization's unwavering and enduring commitment to the community's long-term recovery. Unlike emergency response efforts that fade as headlines disappear, BHERC Operation Love has pledged to remain engaged throughout the entirety of the recovery crisis. 'When the flames were doused, our work was just beginning,' said Evers-Manly. 'We understood from day one that recovery isn't measured in weeks or months—it's measured in years. These senior fathers need to know that support isn't disappearing when the immediate crisis passes.' The Ripple Effect of Supporting Senior Fathers Research consistently shows that supporting a fathers' mental health creates positive ripple effects throughout entire family systems. When they receive the care and recognition they need, they're better equipped to continue providing the stability and wisdom their families require during extended recovery periods. Their influence often extends across multiple generations, making their wellbeing crucial to the recovery of entire family networks. It is believed that a father's wellbeing is directly connected to his family's resilience. BHERC Operation Love believes in supporting the entire family. By investing in these seasoned men's mental health and community connections, the organization helps to strengthen entire families and, by extension, the whole community's recovery. Committed to a sustained presence in all of the communities they serve reflects a deep understanding that disaster recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. BHERC has committed resources and personnel to remain active in the community for as long as families face fire-related challenges. 'Other organizations have come and gone, which is natural in disaster response,' said Evers-Manly. 'But we made a promise to walk alongside these families for the entire journey. This celebration for senior fathers is just one example of how we're keeping that promise.' Event Details The gathering is free and open to all senior fathers impacted by the January firestorms. Family members are welcome to join in celebrating these remarkable men who have kept their communities strong. For more information about the celebration or BHERC Operation Love's ongoing recovery efforts, please contact Sandra J. Evers-Manly, President of BHERC Operation Love, at [email protected], (323) 957-4656, or (310) 365-2080 and visit About BHERC 'Operation Love' BHERC 'Operation Love' provides vital support to vulnerable populations, with specialized focus on seniors, unhoused individuals, and those with health conditions. Initially formed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Operation Love expanded in January 2025 to deliver rapid disaster aid for those affected by wildfires and other emergencies. For seniors and unhoused individuals impacted by COVID and other disasters, the team has assisted with emergency supplies, gift cards, gift baskets for various holidays, special luncheons, transportation assistance, legal assistance, and coordinating with mental health professionals for emotional care. Since inception, Operation Love has distributed more than 25,000 blankets, 16,500 rolls of toilet paper, 48,000 essential goods, gift baskets and back bags to those in need. The organization has donated over $202,000 to individuals needing assistance, partner organizations and honored frontline workers through events reaching 2,500 participants in various cities across our nation. The Operation Love Initiative remains committed to creating a compassionate safety net for our most vulnerable neighbors in times of disaster. For more information, visit Media Contact Sandra Evers-Manly [email protected] ### SOURCE: Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center Copyright 2025 EZ Newswire
Associated Press
02-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC), Lift International Church, and I Choose Life Foundation Join Forces to Reunite Displaced Seniors at Heartwarming 'Gathering of Love Luncheon'
Gathering will take place Saturday, March 1, 2025 at Lift International Church in Pasadena LOS ANGELES, CA, March 1, 2025 (EZ Newswire) -- In a powerful demonstration of community resilience, nearly 100 Altadena wildfire survivors—predominantly seniors who have been scattered across Southern California—will reunite some for the first time since disaster struck at the 'Gathering of Love Luncheon' this month. This special event represents a collaborative effort between the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC), Lift International Church, and the I Choose Life Foundation to provide both physical nourishment and emotional healing to those whose lives were upended by the devastating fires. Set against the backdrop of Black History Month and Women's History Month celebrations, the luncheon will offer attendees a rare opportunity to enjoy a home-cooked soul food meal, a simple pleasure many have been denied while staying in temporary accommodations. The gathering will take place Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 12:00–3:00 p.m. at Lift International Church, 1757 North Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91104. 'These seniors have been scattered to the winds—living in crowded hotel rooms, cycling through Airbnb's every few days, or doubled up with relatives from Riverside to San Clarita and more' noted Sandra Evers-Manly, founder of BHERC and architect of its Operation Love Initiative. 'Beyond losing their homes, they've lost their community connections. This luncheon creates a space where they can exhale, embrace familiar faces, and feel surrounded by love again.' Evers-Manly has witnessed firsthand the emotional toll on seniors, having personally shopping and delivering critical essential items to them and their families, helping with supporting those wanting to view the remnants of homes where they built decades of memories. Her team has provided not just material support but also companionship through the bewildering maze of insurance claims and other paperwork. The human cost of the Altadena fires is staggering—an estimated 13,000 homes destroyed, over 50,000 individuals displaced, and elderly residents facing particularly severe challenges in rebuilding their lives. Dr. Anthony McFarland, Pastor of Lift International Church, emphasizes the deeper purpose behind the event: 'In the face of tragedy and destruction, all we must lean on is each other. This gathering reminds us that community isn't defined by buildings, but by people who care for one another. No one should face this journey of recovery alone.' Tony Wafford, President of the I Choose Life Foundation, adds: 'While the physical structures are gone, the spirit of community remains unbroken. People lost everything material, but today we're showing that what truly makes Altadena special—its people and their connections—can never be destroyed by fire.'For many attendees, this will mark their first opportunity to reconnect with neighbors and friends without the pressure of navigating insurance paperwork or temporary housing concerns—a chance to simply break bread together and begin healing as a community. About BHERC 'Operation Love' BHERC 'Operation Love' is an initiative that provides vital support to vulnerable populations in need, with specialized focus on seniors, unhoused individuals, veterans, and those with health conditions. Initially formed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Operation Love expanded to deliver rapid disaster aid for those affected by wildfires and other emergencies. For seniors and unhoused individuals impacted by pandemic and other disasters, the team has assisted with emergency supplies, essential items, gift cards, gift baskets for holidays, special luncheons, transportation assistance, and coordinated with mental health professionals for emotional care. Additionally, Operation Love has honored frontline workers and veterans through events reaching 10,000 participants. Since inception, Operation Love has distributed more than 25,000 blankets, 16,500 rolls of toilet paper, 28,000 essential goods, gift baskets and backpacks to those in need. The organization has donated over $200,000 to individuals needing assistance and partner service organizations. and The Operation Love Initiative, remain committed to creating a compassionate safety net for our most vulnerable neighbors in times of disaster. For more information, visit: About Lift International Church Lift International is a dynamic church serving Altadena and Pasadena, committed to transformative community service rooted in faith. Founded in 2000 by Drs. Anthony and Micheline McFarland, Lift puts compassionate action at the forefront of its mission, addressing real needs through focused outreach programs and volunteer initiatives. The church actively partners with local organizations to provide food security, educational support, and mentorship to underserved populations. Through hands-on service projects, emergency assistance, and skill-building workshops, Lift empowers community members to overcome challenges and build sustainable futures. The McFarland's' vision extends beyond traditional ministry to create lasting positive change. Their leadership has mobilized members to serve as agents of transformation throughout the area. Lift's future plans include developing a community center in Altadena that will expand their service capacity, offering resources, support programs, and gathering spaces where diverse community members can connect, grow, and thrive together. For more information, visit: About I Choose Life Foundation I Choose Life Foundation addresses critical health disparities affecting the African American community, focusing on cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, mental health, lupus, obesity, cancer, and STIs. We empower communities through education and collaborative healthcare initiatives while building a powerful network of partners including social organizations, civil rights groups, Black media, medical professionals, community advocates, faith leaders, public figures, and government allies. By drawing on the community's life-affirming culture and internal resources, we create inclusive spaces where those directly affected can engage in prevention projects that promote positive health choices. Our comprehensive approach brings together diverse stakeholders committed to improving health outcomes, organizing resources effectively, and ultimately transforming health disparities into opportunities for community empowerment and wellbeing. For more information, visit: .
