Dennis Richmond's legacy lives on through community work
East Bay nonprofit Ala Costa mourns loss of Dennis Richmond, remembering his impact
When Dennis Richmond wasn't anchoring the news, he was lending his time to a Berkeley-based nonprofit called Ala Costa Centers, which supports students and young adults with developmental disabilities.
BERKELEY, Calif. - Dennis Richmond, the legendary anchor synonymous with KTVU Channel 2, was not only known for his commanding presence on-air, but also for his significant contributions to the community.
One of the organizations he dedicated his time to was Ala Costa Centers - a nonprofit based in Berkeley that helps individuals with developmental disabilities.
Richmond spent several years working closely with Ala Costa, even in his retirement, often supporting their annual fundraising gala.
Ron Halog, former executive director of Ala Costa, said Richmond’s star power, warmth, kindness and sense of humor had a lasting impact on the organization.
"Especially during the events, he always made everyone feel welcome. He treated them just like anyone else, making sure they felt part of the community. They thought he was a rockstar - ‘Dennis Richmond is here!’" Halog said of the youth at the organization.
Thanks to Richmond's support, Ala Costa was able to purchase a van for the organization using funds raised at the gala. Halog shared a photo with KTVU showing young people with a handmade "Thank You" sign.
Halog also fondly recalled Richmond’s calming and professional presence, which was felt on and off the air.
"When we were doing these fundraising events, they're big and they're very, very stressful and I remember one time I was pulling my teeth out, pulling my hair out and Dennis would come in very calm, collected but professional... he had a way to calm you down, but make sure that things were going to get done," said Halog.
Ala Costa later honored Richmond with a special award and the organization dedicated the "Dennis Richmond Community Impact Award" to outstanding educators, which he personally presented.
"He made a big difference in the families here, he made a big difference for Ala Costa and its growth," said Halog. "When I first started there was only one center... We got notoriety- 'okay, this is a legitimate program, Dennis Richmond's working with these guys, must be good,' and we also had other funders know about us," said Halog.
Ala Costa also expressed gratitude and appreciation for Richmond's wife, Deborah, who was heavily involved in raising awareness and support for the organization.