Jean Shafiroff Kicks Off NYC Mission Society Annual Gala Planning

On Tuesday, January 24, philanthropist Jean Shafiroff brought together several dozen supporters of the New York City Mission Society to begin planning for the annual Champions for Children Gala. Jean Shafiroff will again chair the benefit, which will be held on April 5 at the Mandarin Hotel.

"I am proud to once again chair the annual benefit for this worthy organization, because the New York City Mission Society makes a real - and lasting - difference in the lives of so many New Yorkers. Tonight, we are not just throwing a party; we are helping children," Gala Chair Jean Shafiroff said.

Added Mission Society President Elsie McCabe Thompson, "Through robust programs, events, and services, the Mission Society is leveling the playing field for New Yorkers who live in some of our city's poorest neighborhoods. It's important to step up, and use our hands and hearts to change lives for the better."

The benefit will support the Mission Society's programs and services that help youth and families in our city's most underserved communities break the cycle of poverty and achieve success.

The Gala will be held at the Mandarin Oriental at 80 Columbus Circle in Manhattan, starting with cocktails at 6:30 PM followed by dinner and a program, music and dance. The evening's honorees and special guests will be announced in the coming weeks. More details about the event and sponsorship opportunities are available at: https://www.nycharities.org/Events/EventLevels.aspx?etid=9605

Last night's planning event at the Shafiroff's home brought together longtime and new supports of the nonprofit. In addition to Jean and Martin Shafiroff and Elsie McCabe Thompson, attendees included: Stan Rumbough (Board Member); Kenita Lloyd (SVP of Development & External Affairs); Geoffrey Bradfield; Randi Schatz; Lady Liliana Cavendish; Countess Isabel Rattazzi; Alex Donner; Flo Anthony; Victor de Souza; Helen Shelton; Cole Rumbough; Lee Fryd; Catherine Petree; Natalie Ross; Patricia Shiah; Sophia Bishop; Elaine Bernanke Appelle; Jerry Bonura; R. Couri Hay; and, Matt Rich.

About the New York City Mission Society

The New York City Mission Society has been on the frontlines of the war on poverty for more than 200 years. Today, our progressive portfolio of educational, workforce development, cultural enrichment, and community-building programs, make a positive, long-term impact on the City's most underserved communities by promoting academic achievement, and providing career opportunities and cultural enrichment. Each year, we serve more than 13,000 children and families throughout New York City with our programs, supportive services, and community events. Learn more at http://www.nycmissionsociety.org.

Photo credit: Krista Kennell/PMC