Honoring Nelly Llanos-Kilroy, with gourmet delights, live music, and a cause that touches thousands of lives
St. Vincent Meals on Wheels is set to dazzle Los Angeles once again with its highly anticipated “Hollywood Under the Stars” 2025 Gala Fundraiser, taking place on Saturday, June 21 at 6:30 PM at the historic Paramount Pictures lot. This elegant outdoor event will blend cinematic charm, gourmet excellence, and heartfelt community spirit into one unforgettable evening, raising essential funds for one of L.A.’s most critical nonprofit organizations serving homebound and vulnerable individuals.
The gala will shine a spotlight on this year’s distinguished honoree, Nelly Llanos-Kilroy, who will receive the Crystal Angel of Service Award in recognition of her decades-long dedication to the mission of St. Vincent Meals on Wheels (SVMOW). A tireless advocate and long-standing supporter, Llanos-Kilroy has worked alongside generations of community leaders, including her late friend Kathy Kilroy and SVMOW founder Sister Alice Marie, to ensure the organization thrives in service and compassion.
Returning as Honorary Host is Nelly’s son, Rick Llanos, a steadfast donor and volunteer whose connection to SVMOW began in childhood. Together, Rick and Nelly embody a family legacy of giving that spans over 50 years. Their continued commitment underscores the importance of individual action in supporting a growing senior population grappling with hunger and isolation.
Culinary Magic Under the Stars
Guests of the gala will be treated to an epicurean showcase curated by some of Los Angeles’ most celebrated chefs and pastry artists. From the VIP Champagne and Cocktail Hour—hosted by legendary actor Ian McShane and Gwen Humble-McShane—to a sumptuous tasting menu and decadent desserts, the evening promises an unparalleled culinary journey.
VIP attendees will be welcomed with specialty hors d’oeuvres prepared by Giuseppe Gentile and Francesco Zimone, the culinary minds behind Florence Osteria and L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. This exclusive reception takes place in the iconic Paramount Theater, offering guests an intimate prelude to the night’s festivities.
The main event will feature dishes from the 2025 Culinary Angels:
-
Chef Mihir Lad, Arth Bar + Kitchen
-
Chef Nika Shoemaker-Machado, Georgia’s Restaurant
-
Chef John Sungkamee, Thai Emporium
-
Chef Armando Quiroz, City Club LA
-
Chef Noah Clark, BOX Chicken
Dessert lovers can indulge in treats from the 2025 Sweet Angels:
-
Saffy’s
-
Bertha Mae’s Brownie Co.
-
Lark Cake Shop
-
Marsatta Chocolate
With signature cocktails flowing and a live performance by the dynamic de Bois All Stars, a 10-piece band known for their high-energy sets, the evening invites guests to dance the night away amid the timeless glamour of a Hollywood backlot.
Why You Should Attend “Hollywood Under the Stars”
There are countless reasons to attend this inspiring and lively evening. Here are six key reasons:
-
Support a Life-Saving Cause: Your ticket helps provide daily hot meals and companionship to thousands of elderly and disabled residents across Los Angeles.
-
Honor True Community Champions: Celebrate the lifetime achievements of Nelly Llanos-Kilroy and her family’s ongoing contribution to community care.
-
Taste Culinary Excellence: Enjoy gourmet creations from top chefs and renowned dessert artisans—all for a meaningful cause.
-
Experience Hollywood Elegance: Walk through the Paramount Pictures lot, soaking in the ambiance of a real film studio under the stars.
-
Celebrate with Celebrities and Leaders: Meet and mingle with VIP hosts Ian McShane and Gwen Humble-McShane and the generous Angeleno community.
-
Be a Part of Lasting Impact: Every dollar raised goes directly toward supporting St. Vincent Meals on Wheels’ mission to end hunger and isolation among L.A.’s most vulnerable populations.
Feeding the Community, One Meal at a Time
Founded in the 1970s, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels is a lifeline for those unable to shop or cook due to age, illness, or disability. The organization prepares and delivers thousands of meals each day, along with essential wellness checks. Its service became even more critical during recent crises like the Los Angeles wildfires, where emergency meal support was vital.
Executive Director Veronica Dover emphasized the impact of community support:
“We are incredibly honored to recognize Nelly Llanos-Kilroy with the Crystal Angel of Service Award. Her lifelong commitment has had a profound impact on our mission. Supporters like the Llanos-Kilroy family and our Culinary Angels enable us to deliver more than just food—they help us deliver hope.”
With rising food insecurity among seniors, coupled with federal funding uncertainties, the work of SVMOW is more urgent than ever. Events like “Hollywood Under the Stars” not only generate funds but foster awareness and unity.
Celebrate with Purpose
Thanks to generous corporate and community sponsors like Kroger, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, and Times Direct, this year’s gala promises to be both magical and meaningful.
Whether you come for the cuisine, the cause, or the community, “Hollywood Under the Stars” is an evening where generosity meets glamor—and where every guest contributes to a mission that transforms lives.
For tickets, sponsorship, and event details, visit:
➡️ www.svmow.org/hollywood
Be there, be inspired, and be part of something greater.
