On March 13, West Hollywood came alive with inspiration as Hollywood NOW and the City of West Hollywood honored Yola Dore at the 2025 Herstory Awards. Co-sponsored by the City’s Women’s Advisory Board, this event—part of the 2025 Women’s History Month calendar—recognized Dore’s extraordinary dedication as an advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. With a career spanning over three decades, Yola Dore has long been a pillar of strength and a voice for change in West Hollywood and the greater Los Angeles community. Her recognition this week paid tribute to her profound impact and enduring legacy.
Yola Dore’s advocacy began in the 1980s when she arrived in Southern California to serve as the Public Relations Manager for Epi-Hab LA, a nonprofit that employed and trained people with disabilities, veterans, and minorities to re-enter the workforce. This role marked the start of her lifelong mission to uplift marginalized communities. Soon after, former Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley appointed her to the Los Angeles Disabilities Board, where she championed civil rights and disability rights with tenacity and grace. For over 30 years, she has made West Hollywood her home, serving as a key member of the Disabilities Advisory Board and a tireless representative for the disability community.
Her work has resonated deeply, giving a voice to the needs of those often overlooked. At the March 13 ceremony, attendees reflected on how Dore’s efforts have shaped policies and inspired countless individuals to find hope through her advocacy.
The Herstory Awards celebrate women whose contributions leave an indelible mark on their communities. The awards honor both past achievements and ongoing influence. On Thursday night, Yola Dore took center stage as a recipient, her story of resilience and leadership captivating the audience. The event highlighted her role as a trailblazer whose advocacy extends beyond the disability community to include the LGBTQ+ population—two groups deeply woven into West Hollywood’s fabric. The evening reaffirmed its mission: to honor women like Dore whose legacies inspire future generations. Her recognition was met with heartfelt applause, a fitting tribute to her decades of fighting for equality and inclusion.
West Hollywood’s commitment to diversity provided the perfect setting for this celebration—the city has long been a haven for those seeking acceptance and opportunity. The awards night brought the community together to honor Dore and reflect on shared values—a collective moment of pride in fostering an environment where every voice matters.
Yola Dore’s legacy is one of empowerment and compassion, etched into the policies she influenced and the lives she transformed. At the ceremony, speakers praised her unwavering commitment, noting how her work continues to guide and inspire. For every new generation, Dore’s story remains a beacon of perseverance, proving that change is possible through dedication and unity. The honor she received on March 13 is more than an accolade—it’s a celebration of the battles she fought and the hearts she uplifted.
As West Hollywood reflects on this week’s event, the community continues to buzz with admiration for Yola Dore. The 2025 Herstory Awards were a poignant tribute to a true icon whose contributions have made the city—and the world—a better place. Today, on March 15, her story still resonates, a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when they choose to speak for those who need it most. Yola Dore’s story is one of hope, leadership, and resolve—a legacy that will endure for years to come.
Whoa! Would not have missed it if I had been aware of ceremony! How did I miss that I ask myself? Would loved to have been a part of the appreciative throng to honor and congratulate Yola. We were Dial-a-Ride buddies on the Ralphs groceries run!
Congratulations to Yola! Well earned . Thank you for your commitment and service to the community of WeHo.
Congratulations, Yola! Richly deserved!! Yola has fought for decades for the underserved especially individuals with disabilities and the older adult community. Despite her own mobility issues, she shows up to City and community events and is always there to cheer on others. I am honored to call her a friend.
Congratulations to Yola Dore.
the evening was a magnificent tribute to Yola who richly deserved the recognition and the huge pat on the back!
In her quiet Southern way, she is always fighting to make sure that people living with disabilities are not overlooked! I have personally witnessed her dedication over the years and I have always admired her commitment to others!