Los Angeles LGBT Center Board Member Susan Feniger and her Border Grill chef-owner partner Mary Sue Milliken have been named the first women, and first duo, to receive the annual Julia Child Award. The award, given by the Julia Child Foundation, includes a grant for the food-related cause of the honorees’ choice. Feniger selected the Center’s new culinary arts program, housed in the new Anita May Rosenstein Campus, for her $25,000 award.
Complete with a commercial kitchen, the program will offer homeless LGBT youth training in culinary skills and disciplines, in an effort to foster employment opportunities and encourage relationship-building and self-sufficiency
“Julia had an uncanny way of engaging everyone around her and showing a genuine interest in the lives of others. The way she treated those around her was remarkably respectful and kind—a manner worth emulating. In the spirit of Julia, I’m donating my half of the award grant to a cause and organization that I am extremely passionate about,” said Feniger.
“In giving my grant money to the Center, I hope to assist in providing LGBT youth and seniors with the skills and tools they need to embark on meaningful careers in the food service industry, a community which I have found to be so welcoming and familial. I think Julia would be proud.”
“Susan’s passion for cooking is equal to, if not exceeded by, her commitment to helping others. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have her support to help us launch our new culinary arts program that will enable LGBT youth to gain experience and skills that will help them build their future careers,” said Center CEO Lorri L. Jean.
Feniger and Milliken will receive the award at a gala at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 1.