On November 25, the River Community felt like one big family gathering. More than 300 people came together, participants, families, staff, and friends of SMRS, to share a warm meal, reconnect, and enjoy being in community with one another.
We were honored to welcome several special guests whose support means so much to our work. In attendance were CEO Bruce Boardman, Senior Director of Community Relations Mike Schaub, Senior Director of Treatment Services Denise Hernandez Felice, Senior Director of Clinical Services Lynetta Hale, Board President Ulises Gutierrez, Board Member Kristine Larsen, Board Member Wanda Jones, and Dr. Lisa H. Wong, Psy.D., Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH). Their presence showed our participants and staff that recovery, wellness, and community are priorities shared across leadership at every level.
Our Kitchen Department prepared all the comfort-food favorites, turkey, mac and cheese, stuffing, and more, filling the room with warmth and the familiar smells of a holiday meal. The space buzzed with conversations, laughter, and those small, meaningful moments that make gatherings like this feel so special. A live band played throughout the afternoon, adding a joyful soundtrack as people clapped along, swayed, and made memories that will last long after the holiday season.
But the heart of the Harvest Feast wasn’t the food or the music; it was the feeling of being together, of knowing that you’re supported, understood, and surrounded by people who genuinely care. For many, the day offered a much-needed pause and a reminder that they are not alone on their journey.
To everyone who cooked, served, organized, greeted, played music, or showed up—thank you. Events like this come to life because of your kindness, your generosity, and your belief in community.
Here’s to gratitude, connection, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with people who feel like family.
