On September 11th, 2024, at Poppy Nightclub, a one-of-a-kind tribute was held to honor Alexis Arquette and fundraise for The Alexis Project, a program of VIP Community Mental Health Center (VIP). Rosanna and David Arquette were on hand for an incredible night featuring: hostessing by L.A. drag legend, Jackie Beat; The McLarens spinning at the turntable; special performances from Sherry Vine and trans actress Candis Cayne; personal remembrances from Rosanna and David Arquette, Stephen Baldwin, and Milla Jovovich; delicious hors d’oeuvres and Alexis-inspired cocktails from Poppy; and more!
Sherry Vine, Jackie Beat, and Candis Cayne attend the Alexis Project Fundraiser and Tribute to Alexis Arquette at Poppy (Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images for Alexis Project)
The red carpet event was media sponsored by Gurus Magazine, with sponsorship support from Pritzker Foster Care Initiative, The Tom Petty Family, and The H.wood Group.
Director of Development and Communications for VIP, Billy Ray Brewton, gratefully thanked the sponsors and guest as they “were able to raise over $25,000 for the crucial, sometimes life-saving work being done by The Alexis Project. And none of that would be possible without the support of The Arquette Family, who are partners in this endeavor in every sense of the word.”
Frances Fisher, Joely Fisher, and Rosanna Arquette attend the Alexis Project Fundraiser and Tribute to Alexis Arquette at Poppy on September 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images for Alexis Project)
Notable attendees included: David Arquette (Scream series), Rosa
Fernando Garibay and Derek Warburton attends the Alexis Project Fundraiser and Tribute to Alexis Arquette at Poppy (Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images for Alexis Project)
When Alexis Arquette tragically passed away on September 11, 2016, she left behind a legacy of art, activism, and community. A partnership between the Alexis Arquette Family Foundation and VIP Community Mental Health Center, The Alexis Project was formed that same year to honor Alexis’s memory, while also serving the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals across Los Angeles County.
Stephen Baldwin, Derek Warburton, Milla Jovovich, Rosanna Arquette, and Jackie Beat celebrate at the Alexis Project Fundraiser and Tribute to Alexis Arquette at Poppy (Photo by Kathlyn Almeida)
Today, The Alexis Project remains steadfast in its commitment to providing comprehensive, integrated care for transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse patients. Members of The Alexis Project staff and team were on-hand at the event, with founders Dr. Astrid Heger and Dr. Tracey Samko delivering keynote addressed to the rapt Poppy audience.
Dr. Astrid Heger talks about the important work behind The Alexis Project and the Violence Intervention Program (Photo by Kathlyn Almeida)
Poppy Nightclub, known for its whimsical and luxurious ambiance, was thethe perfect backdrop for an evening that celebrates the life and legacy of Alexis Arquette. The venue, which blends high fashion with a storybook fantasy setting, is a reflection of Alexis’s vibrant spirit and commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.
Rosanna Arquette speaks at the Alexis Project Fundraiser and Tribute to Alexis Arquette at Poppy (Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images for Alexis Project)
“Thank you so much Dr Heger & everyone who has come here to celebrate Alexis & the amazing work being done in her name…The Alexis Project. provides trans & LGBTQ+ youth access to VIP’s hallmark medical, mental health and support services specifically targeted to the LGBTQ+ community. In today’s climate, their work is more important than ever – as we see dangerous attacks on the trans & LGBTQ+ community everyday. The Alexis Project is committed to normalizing health & mental health support for all LGBTQ+ patients, and creating a standard of care that will spark a national movement to improve access and services for all people without prejudice. LGBTQ+ youth can find safety with specialized medical and mental health staff, who understand their needs. We are honored to have this important work being done in our sister’s name & thank all to all of you who support this incredible work: wether it’s through donations, working at the facility or spreading the word.” -Rosanna Arquette
The event was graced by the presence of The Alexis Project’s dedicated staff and team members. Dr. Astrid Heger and Dr. Tracey Samko, the organization’s founders, captivated the Poppy audience with their compelling keynote addresses. The venue, Poppy Nightclub, renowned for its enchanting and opulent atmosphere, provided an ideal setting for a gathering honoring Alexis Arquette’s life and enduring impact. With its unique blend of high fashion and fairytale-like ambiance, the club perfectly mirrored Alexis’s vivacious personality and unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Then, following the incredible speeches, was a “Dessert Dash” and sensational performances by Jackie Beat, Sherry Vine, and Candis Cayne. Candis specially performed a tribute piece of her transition song, “Glory Box” by Portishead, in honor of Alexis.
Candis Cayne honors at the Alexis Project Fundraiser and Tribute to Alexis Arquette at Poppy (Photo by Kathlyn Almeida)
Moreover, the “Dessert Dash”, had all proceeds benefit the important work of The Alexis Project. Participating bakeries included: The Abbey We-Ho, Brady’s Bakery, SusieCakes, Winston Pies, Proof Bakery, and Flouring LA. A staple of Pacific Northwest fundraisers, a “Dessert Dash” invites guests to bid on high-end desserts from bakeries in and around Los Angeles County, with all proceeds benefiting The Alexis Project. Participating bakeries included: The Abbey We-Ho, Brady’s Bakeries, SusieCakes, Winston Pies, Proof Bakery, and Flouring LA.
Significantly, The Alexis Project, established in memory of Alexis Arquette, is dedicated to providing affirming care and support for transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals. Through healthcare, advocacy, and community-building efforts, the Alexis Project strives to create a world where everyone can live authentically.
