NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Son of a Saint announced that philanthropists Rico and Kristin Alvendia will serve as co-chairs for the organization’s 2025 Annual Gala, taking place the evening of Saturday, Nov. 22, at the Four Seasons New Orleans. The event marks the 12th installment of the nonprofit’s signature fundraiser in its 14-year history, this year held under the uplifting theme: Illuminating Futures.
As part of its continued support and commitment to the organization’s mission, Alvendia, Kelly & Demarest (AKD) Law Firm – a longtime Son of a Saint supporter – has stepped up to serve as the 2025 Annual Gala’s Presenting Sponsor. This level of leadership and generosity underscores the importance of community investment in the transformative work that Son of a Saint provides to hundreds of young men and their families across Greater New Orleans.
About Rico Alvendia: Alvendia, Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) in the United States Military, is the founding partner of the AKD, a trusted New Orleans-based firm that has successfully represented Louisiana businesses, clients, and municipalities for over 20 years. Recently appointed by Governor Jeff Landry to the Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, Alvendia also served as the 2025 King of Washington D.C. Mardi Gras. He is the co-founder of the Legion of Mars Mardi Gras Krewe and the Mars Hero Fund, organizations launched in collaboration with fellow combat veterans to honor and uplift both past and present military members and first responders. Together with his wife Kristin, the Alvendias have long been committed to advancing vital community causes and improving lives across Greater New Orleans and the entire state.
“I’m honored to serve as this year’s Son of a Saint Annual Gala Chair,” said Rico Alvendia, in a release about the gala. “As a father of a son and a lifelong champion for Louisiana, I deeply resonate with the mission of this organization. Son of a Saint is shaping futures, building leaders, and transforming communities. I’m proud to stand behind that effort.”
Co-chair Kristin Alvendia added, “It’s a true joy and privilege to serve alongside my husband in support of Son of a Saint. I look forward to helping expand the organization’s reach and welcoming new supporters into this community of care. The legacy Son of a Saint is building is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Founded in 2011, Son of a Saint is a New Orleans-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that exists to transform the lives of young men through holistic mentorship, emotional support, life skills development, and exposure to constructive opportunities and experiences. Each year, the gala generates millions in critical revenue that directly funds the organization’s innovative and life-changing programming.
“We’re thrilled to be gearing up for another impactful gala event on November 22,” said Bivian “Sonny” Lee III, founder and CEO of Son of a Saint. “It’s the ultimate party with a purpose—our biggest event of the year—and a celebration of the young people we serve. We’re grateful to Rico and Kristin for bringing their leadership, heart, and vision to help us illuminate futures across our city and state.”
For more information about the 2025 Son of a Saint Annual Gala, including sponsorship opportunities and ticket details, please visit www.sonofasaint.org.
