By Teri Kinne
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 2/1/26 – March 14, 2026 | Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel
Palm Springs has long been a place where community, creativity, and activism intersect, and on March 14, 2026, those values take center stage at the Luck Be A Lady Gala, the annual fundraising celebration benefiting The L-Fund.
Held at the elegant Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, the evening is more than a glamorous night out. It is a powerful reminder that leadership, when rooted in service, advocacy, and visibility, can transform lives.
The L-Fund’s mission to empower cisgender, transgender, and queer-identifying lesbians across the Coachella Valley is fueled by individuals who lead with courage and compassion. This year’s gala proudly honors three extraordinary women whose impact continues to shape both local and national communities, including our own Senior Editor at The Hollywood Times.
Imani Rupert-Gordon
President, National Center for Lesbian Rights
A fearless advocate for LGBTQ+ equality, Imani Rupert-Gordon has helped advance legal protections and civil rights for LGBTQ+ people nationwide. Her leadership has strengthened pathways to justice while centering the most vulnerable voices in the community. She will be honored with The L-Fund’s Bobreta Franklin Community Service Award.
Valerie Milano
Senior Editor, The Hollywood Times
The L-Fund will also honor The Hollywood Times’ own Senior Editor, Valerie Milano, whose career in entertainment journalism has been defined by visibility, authenticity, and advocacy. Through decades of reporting, interviews, and festival coverage, Milano has ensured LGBTQ+ stories are told with heart and integrity, bringing community narratives to a global audience. She will receive The L-Fund’s Ambassador Award, recognizing her role as a trusted voice and connector within media and the LGBTQ+ community.
Mei Ling Tom
Co-Chair & Longest-Serving Board Member, The L-Fund
A guiding force behind The L-Fund’s success, Mei Ling Tom’s eight years of dedicated service have helped build the organization’s lasting impact in the Coachella Valley. Her generosity and leadership have touched countless lives. This year, she will become the first-ever recipient of The L-Fund’s L’s Angel Award, honoring her extraordinary legacy of philanthropy and care.
The Luck Be A Lady Gala is more than a celebration, it’s a call to action. Every ticket purchased directly supports The L-Fund’s mission, providing vital financial assistance to lesbians throughout the Coachella Valley. A portion of each ticket is tax-deductible, ensuring every contribution goes further.
As Palm Springs gathers to celebrate these remarkable leaders, the message is unmistakable: when we uplift our own, we strengthen the entire community.
Tickets are available now through The L-Fund’s website, via QR code, or online. Your presence doesn’t just honor their work; it helps continue it.
