The Asian American Drug Abuse Program (AADAP) is proud to announce that Kaiser Permanente, John Yamamoto, Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson, and Trisha Murakawa will be honored at the upcoming “Showtime 2024” event, elebrating AADAP’s 52^ndanniversary.

AADAP’s 52^ndanniversary benefit event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Aratani Theatre, 244 S. San Pedro St. in Little Tokyo.

Kuleana Award: Kaiser Permanente and John Yamamoto

The Kuleana Award honors a distinguished corporate or foundation partner whose unwavering support has profoundly impacted AADAP’s mission. The award recognizes not only the depth and longevity of their partnership, but also their public embodiment of philanthropic values, reflecting a steadfast resolve to drive meaningful change and support the communities AADAP serves.

Kaiser Permanente and John Yamamoto, vice president of community health and government relations at Kaiser Foundation Hospitals/Health Plan, Southern California, exemplify the spirit of Kuleana through their strategic investments in community health, high-wage job creation, affordable housing, and addressing health and economic disparities.

Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente is the nation’s largest nonprofit integrated healthcare organization committed to shaping the future of health care with high-quality, affordable services. Serving 12.5 million members across eight states and the District of Columbia, the organization emphasizes total health through its Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists and advanced technology, and is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education and community support.

Yamamoto brings extensive experience from his previous roles leading Kaiser Permanente’s national legal department and serving as Southern California regional counsel. He also contributes to the boards of Maui Health System, Futuro Health, and United Way of Greater Los Angeles.

Social Justice Award: City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson

The Social Justice Award celebrates an individual whose steadfast dedication to combating inequity and discrimination embodies the true spirit of social justice. This award honors those whose organizing, activism, and advocacy have profoundly impacted their communities, championing fairness and equality while inspiring transformative change and resilience in the fight for a more just society.

Harris-Dawson of the 8^thDistrict will be recognized for leading community advocacy in South L.A., championing AADAP’s youth and family programs at the City Council, and working to overcome systemic barriers to youth services.

As president-elect of the Los Angeles City Council, Harris-Dawson has dedicated over 20 years to community activism and public service. His pivotal work includes co-authoring Proposition HHH, a $1.2 billion bond measure for permanent supportive housing, and spearheading initiatives to support local businesses and feed vulnerable seniors during the pandemic. Harris-Dawson’s innovative governance and commitment to social justice continue to drive positive change in Los Angeles.

Mike Watanabe Leadership Award: Trisha Murakawa

The Mike Watanabe Leadership Award recognizes an extraordinary individual whose visionary leadership embodies the innovative spirit of Mike Watanabe, AADAP’s esteemed leader for 46 years. Their leadership not only sets a high standard for excellence but also drives meaningful impact, reflecting a deep dedication to advancing both their field and the communities they serve.

Murakawa, principal and chief problem-solver for Murakawa Communications, will be celebrated for her pivotal role as a trusted partner of AADAP, where she has been instrumental in shaping their organizational strategy, creating an unforgettable 50^thGala program, and providing unwavering support to their programs and mission.

Murakawa, a seasoned expert in the built environment, has over 25 years of experience in project management, strategic planning, and community engagement. Her work with public agencies and her commitment to community service through roles on various boards, including 211 L.A. County and the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce, reflect her dedication to advancing equity and education.

Murakawa’s family legacy of community service and her leadership as president of the El Camino Community College Board of Trustees further highlight her impactful contributions.

Event Details

“Showtime 2024” will be an extraordinary evening featuring performances from funk/soul artist Leo Mercedez, “The Voice: Philippines” semifinalist Janice Javier, international sensation 4^thImpact making their L.A. debut, and two-time Grammy winner Tia Carrere.

The event will be hosted by actor, writer, producer, and director Mark Dacascos, promising an unforgettable celebration.

For more information about “Showtime 2024,” including ticket purchases and sponsorship opportunities, visit aadapinc.org or contact Paulina Hong at [email protected].

Founded in 1972, AADAP (aadapinc.org) is one of Los Angeles County’s oldest and most respected substance abuse treatment and prevention organizations. AADAP was the first publicly funded agency in the county to operate a substance abuse program specifically targeting Asian Americans. It remains one of only a few programs in the country to specifically provide culturally and linguistically sensitive treatment and prevention services to the Asian American and Pacific Islander populations.

At the same time, over its 50-year history the agency has broadened its mission and expertise to provide culturally competent treatment, prevention, mental health, youth gang, and employment services to serve all populations affected by drug and alcohol problems in the diverse L.A. County region, while broadening its staff diversity to reflect the cultural and ethnic spectrum of its community.

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