Sheryl Lee Ralph, the talented actress and philanthropist, will be honored with the Inaugural Sheryl Lee Ralph Legacy Award at this year’s Angel Awards on September 23 in Hollywood. This prestigious award is presented by Project Angel Food, an organization that Ralph has been involved with for three decades.
Project Angel Food began its mission by serving hundreds of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Over the years, it has expanded its reach and now prepares and delivers over 1.5 million meals annually to Angelenos who are battling critical illnesses. Ralph’s connection to the organization began after she moved to Hollywood following her success in the Broadway show “Dreamgirls.” She witnessed volunteers coming in and out of the church kitchen that served as Project Angel Food’s home and felt a deep desire to get involved. Having known many people affected by HIV/AIDS, Ralph was inspired to take action.
Richard Ayoub, CEO of Project Angel Food, expressed his admiration for Ralph’s commitment, saying, “When no one and I mean no one would stand up for people living with AIDS, Sheryl Lee Ralph risked her career and her livelihood to do what was right. That commitment to those in need has not wavered in 34 years! This new Sheryl Lee Ralph Legacy Award is long overdue.”
Ralph’s dedication to philanthropy extends beyond her work with Project Angel Food. She is an AIDS activist, artist, author, and public speaker. She has received five honorary doctorate degrees, authored six books, and delivered numerous inspiring speeches. In fact, she notably spoke at the Republican Conventions in Houston in 1992 and San Diego in 1996. Ralph also serves on Project Angel Food’s Board of Directors.
The Angel Awards, where Ralph will be honored, will be held at Project Angel Food’s Hollywood kitchen. The event will feature a performance by the talented singer Jewel, commemorating the 25th anniversary of her second studio album “Spirit.” The parking lot will be transformed into a stunning “ballroom under the stars,” and the menu will be provided by Angelini Osteria, adding to the elegance of the evening.
The event will be attended by various notable celebrities, including John Goodman, Tara Reid, Megan Hilty, Charo, Steven Weber, Loni Love, Tyler Henry, Rachel Lindsay, Jai Rodriguez, Michael Corbett, and celebrity chef Ronnie Woo, among others. The Angel Awards are presented by Wells Fargo, with Glamazon L.A., Amazon’s LGBTQ+ Affinity Group, serving as a principal sponsor.
Sheryl Lee Ralph’s impact on the community, her dedicated work with Project Angel Food, and her commitment to philanthropy make her the perfect recipient of the Inaugural Sheryl Lee Ralph Legacy Award. She is a true inspiration and will continue to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
