The Oscar De La Hoya Foundation was created in 1995 to provide athletic and educational opportunities to the children of East Los Angeles . The Foundation is committed to guiding young people toward leading positive leading positive lives and away from circumstances of gang violence, juvenile delinquency, and substance abuse.

The Foundation accomplished this mission by funding academic scholarships for deserving students through the Oscar De La Hoya Youth Center as well, where numerous children, boys and girls, train and are tutored after school.

Oscar De La Hoya acknowledged all those who have made a difference in the lives of these young people throughout the years.

“We sometimes call people we see on television heroes, but it is actually those of you who give financial support to the Foundation so that these children can continue their studies,” said De La hoya, who was accompanied by his wife, Millie. “In my eyes, you are the real heroes.”

Four individuals were honored by De La Hoya with the Oscar De La Hoya Foundation Champion Award. Filmmaker Jay Russell, former Los Angeles Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda, entertainment lawyer Peter Lopez, and director Michael Bay were presented with a large statue for their generous support. All four gave humbling speeches in accepting the award.

The Champion Award acknowledges an individual or organization for their personal dedication to make a difference in the lives of young people in the inner city. Their commitment to support the Oscar De La Hoya Foundation will continue to help open doors of opportunity to thousand of children at the Oscar De La Hoya Youth Center.

One of the highlights of the night was the auction of a Labrador puppy. Bids were made until a middle-aged gentleman gave the winning bid and will provide a loving and warm home for his new pet.

Natalie Cole brought the house down with her energetic performance, which also included her famous duet performance with her late father, “Unforgettable.”

Those in attendance to present awards were comedian Martin Lawrence, actor Morris Chestnut, and Catherine Bach Lopez (wife of Peter Lopez).

The boxing community was well represented at the dinner. Undisputed Middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins, Brothers Librado and Enrique Andrade, undefeated Daniel Ponce De Leon , trainer Floyd Mayweather, Sr., publicist Bill Caplan, ring announcer Michael Buffer, and HBO boxing analyst Larry Merchant were all in attendance.

The emcee for the evening was actor and radio personality Mario Lopez.