PS CHARITY - The Elrod Sculpture Garden at the Palm Springs Art Museum came alive with holiday spirit on December 6 as community members gathered for the Leslies’ 37th annual toy drive and fundraiser benefiting the Laurel Foundation. What began nearly four decades ago as a simple act of giving has grown into one of the Coachella Valley’s most heartfelt holiday traditions—blending generosity, art, and community connection.
Hosted by Sam and Ashan Leslie, the festive evening welcomed supporters with a hosted bar, a gourmet buffet prepared by Celebrity Chef Franco, and a full slate of holiday touches, including Christmas carols, raffles, silent and live auctions, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The celebration was guided by emcee and DJ Bryan Chesters of Let’s Party L.A., who kept the evening both lively and warm.
Ashan and Sam Leslie with The Honorable Lisa Middleton
A powerful centerpiece of the night was Self Portrait: This Is Me, a moving exhibition of artwork created by Laurel Foundation campers. The young artists stood proudly beside their work, sharing personal stories that reflected resilience, identity, and self-expression. The exhibition complemented the museum’s Q+ Art initiative, which highlights artists who identify as LGBTQ+, underscoring the evening’s shared themes of inclusion and visibility.
Sam Leslie & Palm Springs Art Museum Board Member Debra Carrington with Santa and Mrs. Claus
For the Leslies, the annual event remains deeply personal. “Founding a 37-year tradition with such a meaningful history is deeply humbling,” Sam Leslie said. “Each year, we’re reminded of the power of community to change a young person’s life. Hosting this fundraiser allows us to support programs where youth feel seen, valued, and empowered—and that’s what keeps us committed year after year.”
All proceeds from the toy drive and fundraiser support the Laurel Foundation’s year-round mental health and social support programs for at-promise and gender-diverse youth—services that extend far beyond the holiday season.
About the Laurel Foundation
Founded in 1993, the Laurel Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating vibrant communities where young people can discover and embrace their authentic selves. Through cost-free mental health, education, and leadership development programs, the foundation works to empower children, youth, and families in environments grounded in trust, integrity, and mutual respect.
To learn more or to support the Laurel Foundation’s mission, visit laurel-foundation.org.
— CityWatchLA
