Los Angeles – Hollywood veteran Jamie Lee Curtis will be recognized at the Children’s Institute’s upcoming annual fundraiser with the inaugural Rob and Michele Reiner Champion for Change Award. The ceremony, part of the institute’s “Cape and Gown Gala” on Nov. 8 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, highlights Curtis’s long‑standing commitment to children in need.
Family legacy of service
Curtis, whose mother was the late actress Janet Leigh, has spent decades supporting sick children, those affected by AIDS, and other vulnerable youth. She says her mother’s example set the tone for a life of service, a path she has continued through volunteer work, fundraising, and public advocacy.
Honoring the Reiners
The award is named for Rob and Michele Reiner, longtime supporters of the Children’s Institute who were tragically killed. Their sister, Martine Singer, now runs the organization. Curtis recently visited the institute’s Echo Park campus, reading stories to children alongside Jake Reiner, the Reiners’ son.
“We had fun,” Curtis recalled, adding that she and the kids “wiggled and waggled and got our yayas out.” She emphasized that spending time with children is a source of inspiration, noting, “There’s nothing dull about a little kid. They are full of life, energy, curiosity and beauty, and it’s impossible not to feel inspired to be around them.”
Why the award matters
In accepting the honor, Curtis said the Reiners’ legacy lives on through the institute’s work. “My only aim here is to focus on the positive, beautiful work being done in the service of other people,” she said, adding that the Reiners “cared” and simply “cared about people.” She also reflected on the personal loss felt by the Reiner family, noting, “I don’t know if there’s a healing. There’s a daily acceptance of something that is unacceptable.”
Community impact
The Children’s Institute provides a range of services to help children and families achieve stability and success, including counseling, educational support, and health programs. The gala raises critical funds to expand these services, and tickets and sponsorship packages remain available. Attendees can also make gifts in memory of Rob and Michele Reiner.
Beyond the award, Curtis used the platform to critique the superficiality of Hollywood events, saying, “Like standing on a red carpet with our little Barbie hands and clothes we didn’t buy so someone will take our picture… Show business, it’s awful.” Her remarks underscore a desire to prioritize genuine service over celebrity spectacle.
How to support
Community members who wish to contribute can purchase tickets to the gala or donate directly through the Children’s Institute website. The organization encourages local families, businesses, and faith groups to get involved, reinforcing the shared responsibility of caring for the next generation.
For more information about the event, ticket options, and ways to give, visit childrensinstitute.org.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
