Community supporters came together in June to attend The Wellness Community Valley/ Ventura's 18th anniversary Celebration of Life Gala at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village.

The event raised more than $125,000 for the organization's free programs of support and education for people with cancer and their families.

The evening began with a cocktail hour with live entertainment from "American Idol" finalist and Oaks Christian graduate Ann Marie Boskovich and Don Cromwell, formerly of Air Supply and the Eddie Money Band.

The gala featured dinner, a live auction, and entertainment by the Thousand Oaks-based band Facing West.

The awards ceremony recognized several local leaders in cancer support. Amgen oncology director of advocacy Kathryn West, a registered nurse, presented the Celebration of Hope award to Gail Crawford, a nine-year survivor of breast cancer who helps others handle their cancer.

Olympic gold medalist figure skater and author Scott Hamilton presented the Celebration of Philanthropy award to Alice and Harvey Diamond for their efforts to empower people with cancer through the Jennifer Diamond Foundation.

Henry Z. Montes, MD, 2008 honoree, presented the Celebration of Excellence award to professional advisory board member Harry S. Menco, MD, an oncologist practicing more than 20 years in Thousand Oaks.

Cofounder and vice president of programs Marty Nason, a registered nurse, presented the Celebration of Life award to board member Zita Rahbar for her longtime commitment and leadership on behalf of the Wellness Community.

An announcement was made that Alice and Harvey Diamond had donated a 6,000-square-foot space in Chatsworth to the Latino Outreach Program of the Wellness Community. The space, which contains a research library and educational center, will allow Latinos with cancer a place to meet for support groups, yoga and children's programs.

The Wellness Community will share the location with the Jennifer Diamond Foundation.