By Valerie Milano
Photos by THT
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 3/29/26 – On Sunday, March 29, 2026, the desert once again became a gathering place for purpose, passion, and progress as Lambda Legal hosted its annual Lambda Legal in the Desert fundraiser at the beautiful home of hosts Glenn Hessel and Mark Kendrick.
As a proud member of the Host Committee and Co-Chair, I had the honor of helping bring together an extraordinary group of supporters, advocates, and community leaders for a meaningful afternoon centered on justice and equality.
Guests arrived at 11:00 AM to a vibrant brunch cocktail reception, reconnecting with friends and meeting new allies, all united by a shared commitment to LGBTQ+ rights. The atmosphere was both celebratory and urgent, reflecting the critical work ahead.
The program officially began at 11:45 AM with welcome remarks from the co-chairs alongside our gracious hosts, setting the tone for what would be an inspiring and impactful program.
At the heart of the afternoon was a powerful address from Kevin Jennings, CEO of Lambda Legal. Jennings spoke candidly about the current landscape, noting the surge of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation across the country and emphasizing the organization’s unwavering commitment to fighting, and winning, legal battles that protect our community.
With over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced in 43 states this year alone, the urgency of Lambda Legal’s mission has never been more apparent. Jennings reminded attendees that these cases require years of work, significant resources, and unwavering dedication, and that Lambda Legal provides this representation at no cost to its clients.
Following Jennings’ remarks, the in-room fundraising appeal, led by Jerry Hipps and Sanford Friedman, was both heartfelt and highly effective. The room responded with remarkable generosity and conviction, energized in part by an exciting $25,000 matching gift that inspired donors to maximize their impact and rise to the moment.
By the time guests gathered, the event had already surpassed its $160,000 goal, reaching an impressive $168,300, and continued giving throughout the afternoon brought even greater momentum.
A highlight moment included the Alaska drawing, led by Rick Davis, adding a touch of fun and excitement before the formal program concluded.
After the program, guests returned to the cocktail reception, where conversations continued, connections deepened, and plans for future engagement took shape. The event officially concluded at 1:30 PM, but the energy and inspiration carried well beyond.
Special recognition goes to Rick-Arlo Yah Lira for his leadership and dedication in bringing this event together, as well as to the entire Lambda Legal team, including Carly Oost, for creating such a seamless and impactful experience.
In a time when LGBTQ+ rights are increasingly under attack, gatherings like Lambda Legal in the Desert are more than social events, they are essential moments of mobilization. They remind us that progress is not guaranteed, but must be protected through vigilance, advocacy, and community support.
Lambda Legal’s track record, winning 86% of its cases against prior federal challenges—demonstrates what is possible when resources meet resolve.
Being part of this event as Co-Chair was deeply meaningful to me. Standing alongside so many passionate individuals, all committed to justice and equality, reinforced why this work matters, and why we must continue to show up, speak out, and support organizations like Lambda Legal.
Together, we are not just attending events, we are helping to shape the future.
