The Honorees
Holly Robinson Peete, acclaimed actress known for “21 Jump Street,” “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper,” and “For Your Love,” along with her husband Rodney Peete, former NFL quarterback, have transformed personal challenges into a powerful mission of service. Their journey began when Holly’s father battled Parkinson’s disease and their son RJ was diagnosed with autism at age three.
Together, they established the HollyRod Foundation in 1997 with a dual mission to support families affected by autism and Parkinson’s disease. Holly’s inspiring philosophy, “I wouldn’t change my son for the world, but I would change the world for my son,” perfectly embodies the spirit of service that the Good Sam Award celebrates.
About the Good Sam Award
The Good Sam Award recognizes community leaders who demonstrate bold leadership in advancing human kindness, understanding, and compassion. Named after Dete Meserve’s novel and Netflix movie “Good Sam,” this prestigious honor celebrates individuals who live by Rotary’s guiding principle of “Service Above Self.” Past honorees include Dete Meserve and actors Jack McBrayer and LeVar Burton.
The HollyRod Foundation Impact
The Foundation’s signature programs include RJ’s Place Vocational Centers providing job training for individuals with autism across 10 locations nationwide, the “Give the Gift of Voice” Campaign supplying tablets and communication apps to non-verbal individuals, and their annual DesignCare fundraiser raising $350,000-$500,000 annually.
LA5 Foundation Mission & History
The Rotary Club of Los Angeles, “LA5,” is the fifth oldest Rotary Club in the world. Over 30 years, LA5 has built a Foundation exceeding $10 million. We donate over $250,000 annually in scholarships to LAUSD students, support numerous local nonprofits including A Place Called Home and School on Wheels, and internationally fund water well construction in Myanmar villages.
All proceeds from this luncheon support the Foundation’s community projects creating positive impact throughout LA and beyond. Join us in celebrating service, compassion, and the transformative power of giving back.