Make-A-Wish Metro New York held its annual
Power of a Wish Gala in New York City last Thursday, raising $1.6 million to support their mission of granting the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Hosted by CBS 2 News Anchor and long-time Make-A-Wish supporter,
Chris Wragge, the gala honored
Sari Chang, Board Chair of Make-A-Wish Metro New York and Western New York, and a partner at JACOBSCHANG Architecture.
Zurich Insurance received the 2017 Corporate Impact Award for their many years of leadership and generous support.
Guests enjoyed an elegant evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing and a touching program which included an original solo dance performance by wish kid
Stephanie Consiglio, based on her journey from illness to healing, a captivating keynote address by wish alum Isaiah New which perfectly captured the long-term impact of a wish. and a rousing live auction. Notable guests included fashion photographer, Nigel Barker and his wife, model Cristen Barker, designer Kate Spade and her daughter, Bea, producer, Tone Thyne and Hamilton’s Carleigh Bettiol.
“We are so grateful for the generosity of all who supported the gala. Raising $1.6 million brings us closer to our goal of reaching every eligible child in our communities,” said Phil Lussier, President and CEO, Make-A-Wish Metro New York and Western New York. “Research shows that children who have a wish granted build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a critical illness which can lead to better health outcomes. Wishes help children look to the future, and instill a sense of hope. We’re very grateful to our honoree, Sari Chang, our host, Chris Wragge, and our Corporate Impact Award recipient, Zurich Insurance, for their passionate dedication to this important mission.”
Funds for Make-A-Wish were raised, in part, through generous gala sponsors: Michael and Susan Delaney; The Mannion Family, Zurich Insurance; Anonymous; American Airlines; BNY Mellon; Breakthru Beverage Group; Brookfield; CBRE; Duggal Visual Solutions; Cheryl and Blair Effron; Lili and Wilson Ervin; Jennifer and James Forese; Penney and Gerry Klingman; Bret Leas; Sukey and Michael Novogratz; Susan and Stephen Scherr; Anne and Alan Schnitzer; Lisa and Michael Senter; Jennifer Langer and Brad Cooper; Luxaire Heating and Air Conditioning; and Travelers.
To view photos from the evening please click here.