Since the beginning, Concern Foundation has accelerated cancer breakthroughs by funding early-career scientists focused on critical fields like immunology, immunotherapy, genetics, and cell biology. Targeting these fundamental disciplines has allowed the organization to support the discovery of cell functions and malfunctions in the human body, providing groundwork for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in people of all ages. Its focus on salary support for promising post-doctoral researchers gives young scientists the freedom to explore new ideas and solutions, bridging a critical funding gap in the scientific community and laying the foundation for future breakthroughs. The Annual Block Party is the organization’s largest fundraising event of the year, drawing thousands of supporters, philanthropists, and Angelenos who believe in making cancer a thing of the past.
This year, Boulevard Hospitality Group (BHG), led by entrepreneur Freddy Braidy, brings two of its most popular establishments to the festivities: Yamashiro Hollywood and TCL Chinese Theatre. Yamashiro, a restaurant in the Hollywood Hills, is famous for its breathtaking views of Los Angeles and its Japanese-inspired architecture. For decades, it has been a luxurious dining destination for locals and visitors to the city. Known for its fusion of Japanese and Californian cuisine, Yamashiro’s chefs are preparing a spread of sushi, noodles, cocktails, and more for Block Party guests, guaranteeing a memorable dining experience during the event.
Just down the hill from Yamashiro on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre will bring a piece of its cinematic legacy directly to Melrose Avenue. The theatre, known worldwide for its Chinese pagoda façade and the Hollywood legends whose handprints fill its entryway, is setting up a 3D photo booth that replicates its iconic entrance. At the Block Party, guests will have the opportunity to capture photos while receiving vouchers for future visits to the landmark venue. Together, Yamashiro and TCL Chinese Theatre perfectly reflect BHG’s mission to merge history and modern hospitality to create cultural touchpoints across Los Angeles. In this way, Freddy Braidy’s leadership has made these properties into must-visit destinations, each offering experiences that mix nostalgia and modern relevance.
Modern Luxury Magazine, which includes the LA-based ANGELENO, has long represented the finest in culture, fashion, dining, and philanthropy in the city. This year’s Block Party participation also coincides with the magazine’s 25th anniversary, marking a quarter-century of telling LA’s stories. Bringing together Yamashiro and TCL Chinese Theatre reflects Modern Luxury’s dedication to showcasing LA’s best while supporting vital causes.
Guests arriving at 6 p.m. on July 19th can expect an evening filled with activities. Aside from the incredible food and photo ops courtesy of Yamashiro and TCL Chinese Theatre, attendees can enjoy casino-style gaming, entertainment stages with live bands, open bars, lounge areas, and interactive photo booths. The honoree presentation and live auction, scheduled for 8:15 p.m., will be another highlight of the evening, recognizing individuals and organizations who have significantly contributed to the fight against cancer. Through these festivities, the Block Party represents hope that through funding innovative research, cancer can one day be eradicated. Thanks to the tireless work of Concern Foundation and the support of sponsors, restaurateurs, entertainers, and the greater LA community, that vision feels within reach.
As Yamashiro Hollywood and TCL Chinese Theatre join Concern Foundation’s 50th Annual Block Party, they represent vital threads in the cultural and philanthropic fabric of Los Angeles. Freddy Braidy and Boulevard Hospitality Group’s involvement shows that when iconic institutions give back, they help create a future where cancer’s impact is diminished for generations to come.
