The New York Mission Society, held its annual Champions for Children Gala on Tuesday, April 24, 2018, to support educational programs and support services that help youth and families in New York City’s underserved communities break the cycle of poverty and achieve success. This year’s Gala Co-Chairs were Katrina & Don Peebles, Leah & Stanley H. Rumbough, and Jean & Martin Shafiroff.
The Gala, attended by more than 330 people, was held at the Mandarin Oriental in Columbus Circle overlooking Central Park and featured music, dance, and a program including awards presentations.
Legendary Cathy Hughes, Founder, and Chairperson, Urban One, Inc. (which includes TV One and Radio One), received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her myriad, trailblazing accomplishments in media, and Mannie Jackson, 2017 Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and President, Mannie Jackson for the Humanities Foundation, received the Dina Merrill Hartley Public Service Award, named after the longtime actor and philanthropist whose family has supported the Mission Society for generations.
Mannie Jackson, Elsie McCabe Thompson, Francis W. Kairson Jr., Cathy Hughes2018 Champions for Children Gala
Other awards were presented to LTC Francis W. Kairson, Jr., Ret., Director Emeritus, of the Mission Society; BNY Mellon; and, International Flavors & Fragrances.
“We are celebrating those who have been committed to empowering others to achieve their dreams,” said New York Mission Society President Elsie McCabe Thompson. They embody a profound commitment to make the world a better place, one full of promise and of opportunity, particularly for our younger generations.”
Reflecting on the New York Mission Society’s storied history, Ms. McCabe Thompson spoke about the organization’s increased focus on education through initiatives such as Learning to Work, the free afterschool music program GRIOT, and the summer and afterschool program, Power Academy, and its plans to provide even more opportunities in the future.
“From our earliest days, we have provided access to services. We have created programs that have benefited people who needed a chance, but who didn’t always see a light at the end of their tunnel,” she said. “For 206 years we have opened doors, we have changed lived, and we have brought out the best in those we served – – individuals who had the ability but often came to us without the skills or self-confidence to realize their full potential.
Gala Champions were: International Flavors & Fragrances; Katrina & Don Peebles; Leah & Stanley Rumbough; and Jean & Martin Shafiroff. Visionaries are BNY Mellon; Fiona & Stanley Druckenmiller; and, Yemi & Patrick Vatel. Advocates are Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP’ MacFarlane Partners; and, Stifel Financial Corporation.
Among the notable attendees at the event were: Jean & Martin Shafiroff, Don & Katrina Peebles, Amelia Ogunlesi, Yemi & Patrick Vatel, b. Michael, Valerie Simpson, Elsie McCabe Thompson, William Thompson, Cathy Hughes, Mannie Jackson, Victor DeSouza, Randi Schatz, Tanja Dreiding Wallace, Anthony Marx, Michele Herbert, Lucia Hwong Gordon.
Celebrity Photographer Patrick McMullan celebrated the luckiest of birthdays on March 17th at a surprise dinner hosted by philanthropist Jean Shafiroff. Over 50 guests of the photographer’s friends and family dined on Asian-inspired dishes at Jue Lan Club, located in the former Limelight space in Chelsea.
Liliana Cavendish and Geoffrey Bradfield
Notable guests included Lady Liliana Cavendish, interior designer Geoffrey Bradfield, writers Michael Must and R. Couri Hay, and editor of Andy Warhol’s diaries Pat Hackett, to name a few. Shafiroff personally honored McMullan with a toast wishing who the Irish Embassy calls “a vital Irish American,” the happiest of birthdays.
Dr. Penny Grant
Enthusiasm for St. Patrick’s Day wasn’t lost amidst the birthday celebrations. Tables were festively decorated with green confetti bombs. Many guests, including Dr. Penny Grant, Irish American actor James Francis Ginty, and socialite Janna Bullock, all donned the holiday’s signature hue.
Roy Kean, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Ann Rapp, and Ryan Nessing
Holiday-themed festivities continued after the private dinner in the venue’s main room with the arrival of an additional 600 guests from every stratagem of Manhattan culture. Halstead Properties agent Roy Kean partied next to composer Lucia Hwong Gordon, and interior designer Ryan Nessing. For McMullan, it was certainly a birthday to remember.
Liam McMullan, Jean Shafiroff and Patrick McMullan
This year’s Gala’s honorees are legendary actress and singer Diahann Carroll, entrepreneur Don Peebles, and three lifetime members of the Mission Society’s Board of Directors: actress and philanthropist Dina Merrill Hartley, whose family has supported the Mission Society for four generations; Lloyd W. Brown, II; and, LTC Francis W. Kairson, Jr.
Co-chaired by Mission Society’s board members Jean Shafiroff — Gala Chair for the previous two years and a former Mission Society Gala honoree — and Katrina Peebles, the benefit will support the Mission Society’s programs and services that help youth and families in our city’s most underserved communities.
Last week, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) hosted its 19th Annual Collaborating For A Cure Benefit Dinner & Auction at Cipriani Wall Street. Beyond marking the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation by noted oncologist Samuel Waxman, M.D., the event also made history in introducing the SWCRF Vince Camuto Memorial Cancer Research Program in honor of Mr. Camuto; the founder of Camuto Group passed away from prostate cancer in 2015. Louise Camuto, Chief Creative Officer of Camuto Group, accepted the honor in memory of her late husband. Downtown interviewed Dr. Waxman in advance of the event, who was in attendance among notables that included Jean Shafiroff, John Varvatos and Michael Nierenberg.
This year’s event was attended by more than 750 corporate executives, board members and their guests. It was hosted by Chris Wragge — co-anchor of CBS 2’s News This Morning — as master of ceremonies, and raised approximately $2.5 million for SWCRF cancer research programs. The money raised will support the Foundation’s research efforts to produce a cure for cancer by reprogramming cancer cells and to deliver tailored, minimally toxic treatments to patients. The scientists funded by the SWCRF have made significant breakthroughs in cancer research, including identifying pathways to deliver novel therapies to treat cancer.
The evening was capped off by a full-length performance by Roger Daltrey of The Who. Daltrey, a regular supporter of cancer-related causes, played nearly every song by The Who that a classic rock fan would want to hear, as backed by a five-piece band that included guitarists Simon Townshend and Frank Simes, bassist Jon Button, keyboardist Loren Gold and drummer Scott Devours. For a handful of songs, the group was joined on-stage by singer/songwriter Willie Nile, who recently premiered a music video through Downtown. Daltrey and band closed the evening with an impromptu Johnny Cash medley, which highlighted Daltrey as a guitarist. Beyond Daltrey, other celebrity performers at SWCRF events have included Ziggy Marley, Train, Peter Frampton, Gregg Allman, Kid Rock, Steely Dan, Glenn Frey, Joe Walsh, Sheryl Crow, John Fogerty, and Counting Crows.
For more information on the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, please visit www.waxmancancer.org.
Originally from Long Island, Jean Shafiroff is a philanthropist, author and socialite who splits time between Manhattan and Southampton. She currently serves on the board of seven non-profit organizations, including the NYC Mission Society. In turn, it is not surprising that New York Magazine featured her in its “Who Runs New York?” article, while Gotham Magazine included Jean as one of its “100 Most Powerful New Yorkers.” With an M.B.A. from the Graduate School of Business at Columbia University and a B.S. in physical therapy from Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons, Jean’s strong educational background is also of note.
Earlier this year, Jean’s Successful Philanthropy: How To Make A Life By What You Give was released via Hatherleigh Press. Featuring an intro by Georgina Bloomberg, the book is available in both digital and hardcover formats. A unique guide to philanthrophy, Jean’s book both explains the philosophy behind philanthrophy and how a person can become a fulfilled philanthropist. In support of Successful Philanthrophy, she is currently very active on the speaking circuit, set to appear as the keynote speaker at the National Association of Professional Women’s event on Oct. 26 and as part of a New York Junior League event on Dec. 13.
What inspired you to write this book? Did a publisher approach you?
Jean Shafiroff: I was given a contract by a publisher a number of years ago, but because of my philanthropic obligations, I did not have the time to write the book. In early 2015 my time freed up and I sent the publisher an outline. They approved the outline and then a contract was signed. That year I sat down and wrote the book. Writing a book is a huge project.
How did you meet Georgina Bloomberg? Where did the idea come from to have her to write the book’s introduction?
JS: Georgina Bloomberg and I met in 2014 when we honored her at the Southampton Animal Shelter Gala in July of that year. I was the chair of the even and because of this she and I became friendly; I have chaired this event for the past 5 years.
Georgina and I are on the Honorary Board of the Shelter together. She and I both love animals. In August 2014 we were also both honorees at the Pet Philanthropy Gala in Water Mill. Georgina is a bright young philanthropist. She represents the millennials. She was perfect for the introduction.
In the book you mention being inspired to get into the world of philanthropy after working within the medical field and within finance. Was there a specific person that inspired you?
JS: A number of people influenced me. My father was a teacher who truly cared about his students. The nuns at the schools I attended taught the importance of taking care of those in need. Mother Theresa, for the work she did, was a great inspiration. My travels deep into places like Cambodia, Columbia, Nicaragua, China and Costa Rica gave me a firsthand view of those who live in enormous poverty. We have great poverty in the United States. It would be criminal to ignore it and do nothing to try to help out.
Jean Shafiroff / Photo: Michael Paniccia
What was the first cause that you got involved with?
JS: I started by becoming involved with charities that had Junior groups rather than getting involved with a specific cause. As a very young person, I enjoyed being with people my own age. Now I am involved with several charities — all with different causes — I do not think it is necessary to limit yourself to one or two causes.
What do you feel is the best first step a person can take towards becoming a philanthropist?
JS: Start by being kind to others. If you are disrespectful and nasty you can never be a true philanthropist. Philanthropy is love of mankind. Next, volunteer for a cause you believe in. Get involved with a group you are comfortable with. My book, Successful Philanthropy: How To Make A Life By What You Give, guides the reader on how to become a philanthropist. It has chapters on such things as how to analyze a charity, what boards look for, how to be a good volunteer, and when and how to do volunteer fundraising. Anyone who wants to become a philanthropist will want to give his/her time, knowledge and resources to a charity that is well run and that manages its finances wisely.
How does one usually go about getting on the advisory board of a charity?
JS: In most cases you have to be asked. You could also volunteer to be on an advisory board and then you would have to be accepted. I have an entire chapter in the book about what boards look for. With any board membership comes the responsibility of making sure your help the charity in a number of ways.
Which board was first for you?
JS: I think the American Jewish Committee. As a Catholic, I thought it would be interesting to serve on their Diplomatic Outreach Committee. It was a great board — all professionals, lawyers, business people and a few doctors. We all respected one another for all of our differences. I was in my very early 30’s then.
What’s coming up for you, besides promoting this new book of yours?
JS: I serve on seven charity boards, chair many galas each year and host many charity parties. This takes up quite a bit of my time. Presently, I am being asked to speak on philanthropy by various groups and by different television networks. Public speaking comes naturally for me. I especially love television and would love to have my own show one day.
How do you like to spend your free time when not working?
JS: I love style and fashion, so this interest takes up a good deal of time. My family and husband are my top priority and I’d like to spend more time with them. I love to travel. This year we took several trips. The ones that were most interesting were the two trips to Costa Rica and then the two trips to Nicaragua. My daughter Elizabeth Shafiroff and her friend Lindsey Spielfogel planned them. We took these trip for animal rescue — and then to meet and support several animal rescue groups. We met and mingled with the very poor of both countries, too. Wherever we could, we gave our support.
What is your favorite restaurant in New York?
JS: Michael’s for lunch. For dinner I like Sant Ambroeus restaurant. Also Craft, for its farm fresh ingredients, and then the new Upland.
Are there any concerts or events that you have tickets to in the coming months?
JS: I love the opera, ballet and then fashion and art exhibits. Each year, I usually go to several openings including ones for the MEetOpera, NYC Ballet and ABT. I have had a subscription series for NYC Ballet forever. Ballet is another favorite of mine.
Finally, Jean, any last words for the kids?
JS: Children need to be taught to be philanthropists. This must occur both at home and at school. An entire section of Successful Philanthropy: How To Make A Life By What You Give is devoted to this topic.
Each year, Jean Shafiroff chairs numerous galas and hosts events benefiting not-for-profit organizations across the city and in the Hamptons. Known widely in social circles, she has gained a reputation for staunchly dedicating herself to a cause.
The Manhattan resident took another step toward helping the underserved this month when she stepped into a new role as a member of NYC Mission Society’s Board of Directors.
“I believe deeply in the work of the NYC Mission Society and how it changes the lives of our most underserved children in New York City,” Ms. Shafiroff said. “NYC Mission Society is interested in adding business and community leaders to its board – individuals who are focused on advancing our city’s children forward through education and supportive after school programs.”
A fixture on DOWNTOWN Magazine’s pages, Ms. Shafiroff is known for her work chairing galas for the New York Women’s Foundation, Southampton Hospital, Southampton Animal Shelter, French Heritage Society, JBFCS, Lighthouse International, American Cancer Society, Southampton Bath and Tennis Club’s Charitable Foundation and Solar One.
NYC Mission Society is a multi-service, community-based organization that improves the lives of children, youth and families in the city’s most underserved communities through programs and services that respond to community needs.
She additionally sits on the boards of the New York Women’s Foundation, Couture Council, French Heritage Society, JBFCS, Advisory Board of Lighthouse Guild, Southampton Bath and Tennis Club’s Charitable Foundation and Honorary Board of Southampton Animal Shelter.
Ms. Shafiroff has already devoted time to help NYC Mission Society. On March 12, the nonprofit presented her with the Dina Merrill Award for Public Service at its annual gala. She co-chaired a successful fundraiser in East Hampton on August 30th and the nonprofit’s Bicentennial gala in 2012. She also is co-chairing the annual gala next Spring.
“NYC Mission Society has been fortunate to work with Jean Shafiroff because of her deep commitment to support children in need,” said Derek E. Steinhiser, Chair of the organization’s Board of Directors.
“She is someone who puts words into action, all to the benefit of others. We welcome Jean to our board, and to the NYC Mission family,” added Lloyd W. Brown II, immediate Past Board Chair. “We are extremely happy that she is giving more of her time and energy to help NYC Mission Society strengthen its presence and programs during this third century of service to New York City.”
