Chlöe, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, And More Celebrate Annual City Year LA Spring Break Benefit

City Year Los Angeles hosted its 12th annual Spring Break: Destination Education benefit on Saturday (May 6).

The event, which raised over $2.2 million to support thousands of students across L.A., honored longtime board member Octavia Spencer, featured a performance from Chlöe, and had various stars in attendance including Tiffany Haddish, Yvette Nicole Brown, Vanessa Williams, and more.

EGOT winner Viola Davis, fellow actress and friend of the Ma star, presented the 52-year-old with an award in recognition of her advocacy and commitment to the thousands of students who benefit directly from having a City Year mentor. “Octavia understands that education os our only key to evening the playing ground. That’s all we have,” Davis began.

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“It’s the key to our dreams. It’s the key to our hopes. It’s the key to our possibilities and I have watched Octavia—one thing you know about her is that she’s funny. You know she’s talented. You know all of that, but what you don’t know about Octavia is the absolute size and power of her heart because her intellect is only exceeded by her heart because she makes you believe that we can all make a difference […] It is my honor to present you with the City Year Los Angeles Service To A Cause Greater Than Self Award.”

In her acceptance speech, Spencer expressed, “It’s humbling to be honored for a core belief of mine, the idea that by coming together, we can strengthen our communities and build a better, brighter future.” She also spoke about connecting with City Year Los Angeles over 12 years ago, and being in awe of those who were aiding students’ success, emotionally and academically.

Later into the ceremony, Chlöe took the stage performing her solo debut, “Have Mercy.” See photos from the benefit below.