The Thalians org will honor music legend Smokey Robinson at its 56th anniversary gala at West Hollywood’s House of Blues in April.
The industry group headed by thesps Debbie Reynolds and Ruta Lee focuses on raising money and awareness for mental health-related causes. For the second time, the Thalian’s gala proceeds will benefit UCLA’s Operation Mend, which provides a range of services to U.S. military personnel injured while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Thalians’ efforts have previously raised more than $30 million for the Thalians Mental Health Center at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. UCLA’s Operation Mend has now become the org’s primary focus, Lee said.
Past recipients of the Thalians’ “Mr. Wonderful” award (a trophy designed by Walt Disney) have included Lucille Ball, Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Jimmy Stewart, Clint Eastwood and Carol Burnett. This year’s gala is set for April 26.
