Charity, Events
Sep 25, 2017

Robin Thicke, Mel B, Kelly Osbourne and more Help Victims of Violence: Face Forward Gala

Stars Robin Thicke, Mel B, Kelly Osbourne and other Hollywood elite came out on Saturday night in support of the 8th Annual Face Forward Gala presented by Etihad Airways.  

From the moment you entered the Taglyan Complex, the theme, Arabian Nights, was present including an outdoor hookah lounge, bar with signature cocktails, and an aerialist performing adjacent to the red carpet. Oh, and did we mention the camel.  Only in LA!
Face Forward Gala_Keltie Knight
While the red carpet was full of excitement, the real conversation starter is the amazing work this charity does. Face Forward works with community leaders and organizations around the nation and throughout the world, in order to identify victims of violence who are working toward recovery and who carry the physical evidence of past abuse. They provide services to individuals who are committed to their recovery by partnering with local community centers, which offer complementary relief, housing, counseling, job searches and legal assistance.

“We are one humble part of the recovery puzzle; however, the immediate results of our healing efforts provide individuals with the confidence to put their best Face Forward once again. We have provided over $750,000 pro bono treatments to patients across the world,” said Founder, Deborah Alessi.

Once inside, the grand ballroom in the Taglyan Complex was adorned in all jewel tones to keep with the “Arabian Nights” theme. Every table had sky high beautiful flower arrangements. The food was also an A+ from us featuring ‘surf & turf’ filet mignon & salmon with asparagus, potatoes, and more (not to mention endless pours of wine pairings.)  We definitely couldn’t wait to dance off those calories to Robin Thicke 😉

America’s Got Talent judge Mel B dazzled in a silver and gold gown alongside her mother, Andrea Brown. To their surprise, Mel was honored with an award presented by co-founders Dr. Alessi and Deborah Alessi, recognizing her mission to raise awareness to end violence.

Face Forward GalaFellow Brit, Kelly Osbourne, sported a new peach hairstyle and was presented with the Voice Award by longtime friend and ET correspondent, Keltie Knight, for her leadership and strong advocacy against cruel acts of crime. During her acceptance speech, the always outspoken Osbourne, joked about her voice finally being heard in a positive light and not getting her into trouble.

Face Forward Survivor and honoree of the evening, Andreas Christopheros, received his award and brought attention to the recent acid attacks in London and shared his own personal journey in hopes of preventing others from going through the same experience.

Once Upon a Time actress and Face Forward celebrity ambassador, Lana Parilla, was given the final award of the night, the Beacon of Hope award for her tireless work in support of the organization.

Face Forward Gala_Robin ThickeTo kick off the evenings musical performances, Joe King of The Fray, debuted his new solo project, Union Moon, with his single “This is How You Know” before going into the classic hit “How to Save a Life. Bringing every attendee to their feet, Grammy Award nominee Robin Thicke took the stage for an electric and high energy set including “Blurred Lines,” “Give it 2 U” and “Lost Without You” The audience was surprised with an up close and personal performance by Thicke as he came down into the crowd during “Blurred Lines” and danced with the guests. It was definitely an unforgettable moment to close out this inspirational night!

We can’t wait to see what Face Forward has in store for us next year. Please visit www.faceforwardla.org to see how you can get involved and help the patients put their best Face Forward.