House Of Lebanon Timeline
Cool Timeline
The Ray R. Irani Pride of Heritage Award was presented to philanthropist and corporate leader George Hage in celebration of his tireless service and generous commitment to the Lebanese community. The ceremony was graced by dignitaries such as Los Angeles City Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.
The Artists Group was started by Mrs. Carole Choucair Oueijan with 7 members. It quickly grew to include over 70 visual artists, performers, composers, musicians, actors, filmmakers, and writers. The group put together Beyond Borders Art Exhibition, an annual event that celebrates the artistic wealth of our community and beyond.
The inaugural Ray R. Irani Pride of Heritage Award was presented to Ambassador Gilbert Chagoury in celebration of his lifelong commitment to serving the people of Lebanon, and the ceremony was honored to have the presence of dignitaries such as Congressman Darrel Issa and former President Bill Clinton.
Mr. Kanan Hamzeh was elected President and Dr. Hanna Shammas remained Chairman of the Board. For the ensuing 5 years, everyone worked diligently, hand in hand with dedicated board members, chief financial officer, Mr. Rachid Eletel and legal advisor, Mr. Jack Chammas, to solidify the Foundation’s basis.
Dr. Irani’s endorsement of the HoL was undoubtedly a major pivotal step. His involvement was cemented by generous donations, not only from Dr. Irani, but also from Dr. Joe Jacobs, Mr. George Hage, and Ambassador Gilbert Chagoury. The latter were elected Honorary Board members, and Dr. Irani became Honorary Chairman.
The first gala event was held on November 19, 2000 at the Waterfront Hilton Hotel in Huntington Beach, CA. This first gala dinner had a dual purpose, to fundraise for the House of Lebanon and to celebrate the Lebanese Independence Day.
Return to Our Roots, a meeting of Lebanese youth from the community, was held at UCLA. It featured Mr. Casey Kasem, the Lebanese American radio icon, and was attended by over 250 members of the community. Other meetings followed which ultimately inspired the Young Leaders Group.
The bylaws were drafted, and through the diligent work of Mr. Jack Chammas, Esq., the foundation received its 501(c)(3) status from the Internal Revenue Service on April 10, 2000.
The Lebanese American Foundation, Inc. was dreamt into existence in September 1999. With much support from the Lebanese community in Los Angeles, a non-profit foundation was established with the name of House of Lebanon, and Dr. Hanna Shammas was elected as Chairman of the Board and President.
