(openPR) - LOS ANGELES, June 1, 2011—Jewish Vocational Service’s (JVS) 14th Annual Strictly Business L.A. Luncheon raised more than $326,000 to support vital job services in the greater Los Angeles area. The annual event brought together 650 business and political leaders to highlight JVS’ critical work in helping Angelenos find jobs.

California Secretary of Labor Marty Morgenstern was the keynote speaker and emphasized the need for job services, such as JVS, in the state of California to improve the economy. He also stressed that good wages demand good skills and that good skills demand good training. JVS does not only find people jobs, they have over 20 training programs to help workers redirect their skills, which can be used in the new job market. Secretary Morgenstern added that Governor Brown is committed to help and support organizations like JVS.

This year, which marked the 80th Anniversary of JVS Los Angeles, the agency honored Larry Miller, President and CEO of Sit ‘n Sleep, with the Corporate Leadership Award, who at the luncheon presented a matching gift opportunity from the stage for up to $25,000 during the event’s Urgent Appeal. Carl Terzian, Chairman of Carl Terzian Associates, was also honored with the Corporate Partnership Award, for his invaluable and renowned public relations services by connecting non-profits with corporations, government institutions and business leaders.

Matt Toledo, publisher and CEO of the Los Angeles Business Journal, served as the Honorary Chair for the luncheon, along with KABC TalkRadio Host Peter Tilden.

Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti, Los Angeles City Councilman Paul Koretz, and L.A. City Controller Wendy Greuel were on hand to present the annual Inspiration Awards to three JVS clients who had overcome substantial barriers to find success in the workplace. The 2011 recipients were: Ricardo Amaya, who did not allow his disabilities to slow him down in finding productive employment; Elizabeth Medina, who participated in JVS’ Summer Employment program for low income, at-risk youth; and Steven Walker, a U.S. Army veteran who retrained and launched a new career with the help of JVS’ Veteran’s First program.

The 14th annual Strictly Business L.A. Luncheon was held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. This year’s event was hosted by Rolonda Watts, Emmy-nominated journalist, talk show host, producer and actor.
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About JVS
Since its founding in 1931, JVS has enhanced the lives of hundreds of thousands of job seekers with vital employment and career services. Each year, JVS helps nearly 30,000 people from over 30 sites around the Southland. A non-profit, non-sectarian organization, JVS works to ensure everyone has access to the help they need, including long term unemployed, at-risk students, those transitioning from welfare to work and people with disabilities. Visit www.jvsla.org for more information. You can also find JVS on Facebook at JVS Los Angeles or follow us on twitter @JVSlosangeles.

Contact: Jim Goyjer 310 207 3361
jim.goyjer@carlterzianpr.com
12400 Wilshire Blvd.
Suite 200
Los Angeles, CA 90025