Philanthropy took on a distinctly polished sheen as Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles hosted its 2026 Builders Ball at the Fairmont Century City.
CENTURY CITY, CA: Cece Scott and Byron Scott attend the Habitat for Humanity Los Angeles Builder’s Ball on March 26, 2026. Photo credit: Rob Latour / Shutterstock for Habitat for Humanity Greater Los Angeles
With elegance and intention, the evening underscored that in a city often defined by aspiration along with creativity, access to homeownership remains one of its most urgent conversations.
Hosted by Billy Harris and presented by U.S. Bank, the organization’s signature fundraiser drew a sophisticated crowd committed to both style and substance, ultimately raising over $1 million in support of affordable housing initiatives across Los Angeles.
CENTURY CITY, CA: Billy Harris attends the Habitat for Humanity Los Angeles Builder’s Ball on March 26, 2026. Photo credit: Rob Latour / Shutterstock for Habitat for Humanity Greater Los Angeles
At the heart of the evening were its honorees, each recognized for their enduring commitment to community impact. Tina Knowles was presented with the Dream Builder Award, honoring her longstanding dedication to uplifting communities of color worldwide. U.S. Bank received the Foundation Builder Award for its continued efforts to expand access to affordable housing, while Brookfield Residential was named Builder of the Year, recognized for its steadfast partnership with Habitat LA.
Andy Richter, Adina Porter, Lakers legend Byron Scott alongside Cece Scott, and other distinguished guests were also spotted last night — lending their presence to an evening defined not by spectacle alone, but by shared purpose.
In a poignant moment, Habitat LA President and CEO Erin Rank addressed the room, grounding the evening’s celebration in the realities faced by many Angelenos. Referencing the recent wildfires that displaced thousands, Rank spoke to both the fragility and resilience of community.
“Habitat LA is, in this very moment, ensuring that homeownership remains within reach,” she shared, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to first-time homebuyers and families navigating sudden loss. “What continues to inspire is the willingness of this city to come together—neighbors supporting neighbors—to ensure that everyone has a safe place to call home.”
Tina Knowles also shared, “I love this organization, and I love what it stands for. I love the fact that they give people their dream. And I can remember my first time, my first home that I had ownership of, and how excited I was, how it felt like I belonged, and I had a stake in the future and I had made it.”
The evening’s live auction offered a carefully curated selection of experiences and collectibles — ranging from exclusive Los Angeles Lakers memorabilia, including items tied to LeBron James, to a coveted Dancing with the Stars experience, a stay at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, and tickets to the Dodgers versus Giants matchup this May.
