On Saturday, January 17, the Out of the Ashes Gala, presented by The Mission Project, transformed a stunning multi-million-dollar Malibu residence into a space of reflection, gratitude, and forward momentum. With just over 200 guests in attendance, the evening brought together celebrities, civic leaders, first responders, and philanthropic advocates to honor extraordinary acts of courage while advancing a critical mission: reforming how communities recover and rebuild after disaster.
Set against sweeping ocean views, the gala struck a balance between elegance and urgency. From the red-carpet arrival to the final standing ovation, the night served as both a celebration of heroism and a call to action for meaningful policy change that ensures families are not left displaced for years after catastrophe strikes.
An Evening Designed With Purpose
Guests were welcomed into the home for a thoughtfully curated silent auction showcasing an impressive range of luxury and celebrity contributions. Highlights included music memorabilia from Taylor Swift and Ozzy Osbourne, signed sports items from Tom Brady and LeBron James, exclusive Los Angeles Kings collectibles, and a coveted luxury trip to Cortina. Each item reflected the generosity of contributors and the collective commitment to supporting long-term recovery efforts.
Culinary experiences were equally elevated. Acclaimed chef Robert Duvall, founder of Duvall’s Dishes, curated an interactive dining experience featuring tray-passed bites and chef-driven stations throughout the property. Guests enjoyed a popular hand-roll bar with spicy ahi tuna, snow crab, and tempura shrimp, alongside refined offerings such as caviar truffle bites, black-and-blue ribeye crostini, French onion tarts, vegan cucumber bites, and Mediterranean-style chicken skewers finished with tzatziki and aged pomegranate glaze.
A Stage Like No Other
One of the most striking visual elements of the night was the home’s pool, transformed into a dramatic stage with custom plexiglass flooring. This unique setting hosted the evening’s awards, keynote addresses, and live performances, including a moving set by Grammy-nominated artist Andy Grammer, whose music added emotional depth and unity to the event.
Taking the stage, Erik Rock, founder of The Mission Project, outlined the organization’s ambitious 2026 ballot initiative, aimed at reforming post-disaster rebuilding processes. Rock emphasized the urgent need for streamlined permitting, accountability, and policies that allow families to return home faster after losing everything. His message was clear: recovery should not be an endurance test for survivors.
Facing Adversity With Courage
Keynote speaker Jenn Drummond, a world-record-holding mountaineer and the first woman to complete the Seven Summits, reinforced the evening’s message of perseverance. Drawing parallels between climbing the world’s tallest mountains and rebuilding after disaster, she reminded the audience that even the most overwhelming challenges are overcome through resilience, intention, and steady forward steps.
Honoring Stories of Redemption and Service
The heart of the evening lay in the Hero Awards, recognizing individuals whose actions embodied courage, compassion, and transformation.
Gabriel Aguilar was honored for his extraordinary journey of redemption through service. Sentenced to prison at 18, Aguilar chose a new path and became a wildland firefighter while incarcerated. During the Pacific Palisades fires, he served three weeks on the front lines across Topanga Canyon, Malibu, and Brentwood. Now rebuilding his own life after his release in November 2025, Aguilar is preparing to enter fire academy training later this year, standing as a powerful example of accountability and hope.
Active Los Angeles Fire Department firefighters Andrew Mott and Tony Vedecia were recognized for their bravery during the Malibu fires. Among the first on scene, they risked their lives to protect homes and families, including that of entrepreneur Blake Mallen, who shared a heartfelt video message thanking first responders and was also honored for using his platform to raise awareness during the crisis.
Hope Rising From Tragedy
One of the most emotional moments of the night came from Grayson Roberts, an 11-year-old blind drummer whose performance captured the spirit of Out of the Ashes. After losing his home in the fires, Grayson turned loss into purpose through his nonprofit, Grayson’s View, supporting other special-needs children navigating disaster recovery.
Chef Robert Duvall and philanthropist Kristin Martin were also honored for mobilizing more than 25 chefs across Orange County, serving over 20,000 meals across a ten-week period to firefighters, evacuees, and displaced families during the Los Angeles fires.
Community, Leadership, And Lasting Impact
The Mission Project’s partnership with the Los Angeles Dream Center was highlighted by remarks from Pastor Matthew Barnett, who was recognized for his frontline leadership and rapid-response efforts supporting wildfire-impacted families.
Representing the California State Treasurer’s Office, Dr. Kayte Susse presented recognition certificates to individuals including Branden Williams, Mauricio Umansky, and Tristan Hamm, each honored for extraordinary service—from guiding homeowners through recovery, to combating misinformation, to rescuing animals during the fires. Dr. Susse also formally recognized Erik Rock and The Mission Project for their continued commitment to rebuilding communities.
A Call To Action
With more than 500 hero nominations submitted by the public, the Out of the Ashes Gala underscored the depth of courage within the community. As the evening concluded, one message resonated clearly: when compassion, leadership, and policy unite, hope does more than survive—it rises.
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