Rams’ Kickoff for Charity Brunch Draws Fans, Raises Funds Earl Heath

When the Los Angeles Rams returned to Southern California in 2016 after a 21-year absence, they made it clear they were focused on more than football. From the start, community engagement was part of the game plan.

By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer

When the Los Angeles Rams returned to Southern California in 2016 after a 21-year absence, they made it clear they were focused on more than football. From the start, community engagement was part of the game plan.

That commitment was on full display at the recent Kickoff for Charity Brunch, sponsored by UNIFY Financial Credit Union and held at the Fairmont Century Plaza Ballroom in West Los Angeles. The event brought together the entire team, coaches, sponsors, and nearly 100 fans for an afternoon that mixed football excitement with philanthropy.

Bidding for a Cause

Attendees had the chance to bid on exclusive auction items, including a suite for a 2025 home game at SoFi Stadium, a spot on the team charter for a road trip, and Super Bowl tickets. Memorabilia such as autographed jerseys from Shaquille O’Neal and Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford were also up for grabs. Proceeds from the event benefited the Rams Foundation.

“We felt we were obligated to use the brand in the community,” said Rams President Kevin Demoff, who is also chief operating officer of Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. “We believe in sending our own people out in the streets with the jersey on. People feel connected, especially when they see the players out there.”

Building a Legacy in L.A.

Since moving back to Los Angeles, the Rams have been one of the NFL’s most successful franchises, reaching two Super Bowls and capturing one championship under head coach Sean McVay. Demoff believes the future is even brighter. Earlier this year, he told Good Morning America that this year’s roster is “the most talented team we’ve had since moving back to Los Angeles.”

(R)  Andrew Whitworth NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year had the moving at the RAMS Chairity Brunch Photo-Sara Medina

The brunch also gave fans a chance to share tables with current Rams players and legends such as Andrew Whitworth and Eric Dickerson. Whitworth, the NFL’s 2021 Walter Payton Man of the Year, reminded attendees why community work remains central to his mission.

“My way of showing support back is to make sure that I’m in the community helping people, so they can take that next step in their life—the same way I’ve been supported my entire career,” Whitworth said.

Honoring a Local Hero

A highlight of the afternoon came when the Rams honored Larry Villescas, a local fire survivor who saved his family during a devastating blaze.

“When we went to sleep, the fire was a distance away. When we woke up in the morning, it was across the street,” Villescas recalled. He managed to get his wife and three children to safety even as flames reached the roof of his home.

For his bravery, the Rams surprised him with tickets to Super Bowl LX.

“I thought I was just coming here to eat lunch,” Villescas said. “This was a great surprise.”