On November 8, Jamie Lee Curtis will take the stage to receive the inaugural Michele and Rob Reiner Champion for Change Award at the Children’s Institute’s Cape & Gown Gala. This award, crafted in partnership with the institute and the Reiners’ family, honors their enduring commitment to bettering the lives of children and families, particularly across Los Angeles and beyond.
For Curtis, this opportunity is deeply personal. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude upon learning about the award, stating it signifies “an important testament to the legacy of Rob and Michele Reiner,” individuals she has known intimately for decades, sharing in their activism and community service. “They didn’t just create together. They lived a life of service,” Curtis commented on the couple’s significant contributions. “I am forever grateful to carry a small part of their legacy forward.”
A Night of Celebration and Reflection
As Curtis prepares for the gala, she emphasizes the need for the event to be a celebration rather than a somber occasion. “Rob and Michele’s lives are celebratory. They would not want this to be morbid and funereal. It has to be a celebration,” she told The Hollywood Reporter. Her participation is not only about honoring their work but about fostering a spirit of joy and gratitude within the community.
Reflecting on her emotional journey during this time, Curtis shared her focus on “love and service” as guiding principles. She recounted her recent experiences, including a touching moment at the Emmy Awards where she paid tribute to Rob and his legacy, acknowledging the outpouring of love from fans and friends alike. “There’s the very small circle of family, then their very closest friends, and then people who just loved his movies,” she explained. “We just want to carry on their work.”
The Children’s Institute and Its Impact
Located in Los Angeles, the Children’s Institute has a storied history of 120 years dedicated to improving the lives of children in the region. Under the leadership of Martine Singer, Michele’s sister, the institute continues to provide vital support and resources to families. Curtis noted how integral the Reiners were to the institute’s mission, especially in the wake of their passing. “Rob and Michele supported the Children’s Institute for years,” she remarked, highlighting Martine’s unwavering dedication following their loss.
With her numerous philanthropic endeavors, Curtis is no stranger to advocacy. She has long supported Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, raising millions through her organization, My Hand in Yours. Curtis’ commitment to service is evident, as she strives to connect her passions for children’s literacy with her advocacy work, noting that “love and service aren’t compartmentalized.” Her dedication aligns with the core values of the Children’s Institute.
Honoring a Legacy of Activism
Throughout her interactions with the Reiners, Curtis observed an unwavering commitment to activism. “Every day with them was activism,” she stated, recalling Rob’s fiery spirit in social causes and Michele’s encouragement. “They were enraged at the way the current administration had decimated progressive policies,” she said, highlighting the Reiners’ tireless efforts in advocating for marginalized communities.
When asked about her connection to the award and how it came to fruition, Curtis recounted a pivotal summer call from Martine, Jake, and Romy Reiner informing her of their decision to bestow this honor upon her. She immediately accepted, eager to further her involvement with the institute and to preserve Rob and Michele’s advocacy legacy.
The Night Ahead: A Celebration of Service
As she looks forward to the gala and the opportunity to accept the award, Curtis intends to bring forth the themes of love and service into her speech. “I have a poem I may read,” she mentioned, sharing her enthusiasm for Marge Piercy’s poem “To Be of Use,” which reflects her dedication to activism and support for the local community. “Just to be of use,” Curtis reinforced, encapsulating the essence of Rob and Michele’s values and her own mission.
The gala promises not only to honor the Reiners but also to uplift the work of the Children’s Institute, reinforcing the idea that love and community service should be central to our endeavors. Curtis will embody this spirit, ready to “suit up, show up, do my thing, stand there in community and say thank you to them.” As it approaches, the event serves as a poignant reminder of the impact individuals can have when guided by love and a commitment to service.
