The annual “Guardian Angel Award Gala” celebrated two of its most impactful and passionate volunteers as Guardian Angels: Maryam Bahman and Angie Bowlin. Both awardees have made significant contributions to Project Lazarus through their tireless advocacy and commitment to this mission.
Co-Founder Fr. Paul Desrosiers opened the program with an invocation and dedicated the night in the memory of Fr. Bob Pawell, Co-Founder of Project Lazarus. The Guardian Angel Award was presented to Maryam Bahman by Rob Gerhart and Jerry Fredieu and to Angie Bowlin by Reverend Thomas Bouterie. Video introductions to the honorees were produced by the Avita Pharmacy marketing department. They also produced two additional videos highlighting Project Lazarus. Executive Director Steve Rivera introduced a video sharing the story of a former resident; an additional speech was made by Board Chair Lance Cardwell.
Lawrence Henry Gobble served as Event Chair, and Leslie Castay served as Hostess.
The Ace Hotel provided the catering. The silent auction featured 33 packages, of which the highlight was a signed artist proof by Gustavo Duque. A live auction featured eight packages with highlights including a five-night stay in a condo in Rome and an original George Dunbar painting, entitled “Bonfouca.”
This fundraiser for Project Lazarus, a transitional home for people living with HIV/AIDS, raises critical funds that directly support the mission of housing and supporting people living with HIV/AIDS and provide the resources and opportunities for residents to overcome obstacles such as homelessness, addiction, mental illness and stigma.
Event at a Glance
What: “Guardian Angel Award Gala,” benefiting Project Lazarus
When: Friday, May 11
Where: Ace Hotel New Orleans
Martin Robinson and Honoree Angie Bowlin
Casey Monnerjahn, John Norris and Bradley Bunch
