New York’s Annual Founding Families Gala Kickoff 2019
Beautiful Jean Shafiroff and her better half Martin hosted a cocktail party at their Park Avenue pied a tere for the upcoming Founding Families Gala on the evening of April 4th in Manhattan. The elegant black tie soiree will benefit the Mission Society of New York programs for equity in urban education.
The Shafiroff’s were joined by the lovely President of the New York Mission Society, Elsie McCabe Thompson whom greeted guests and supporters. All were welcomed graciously with silver trays of champagne and delicious hors d’ouerves. Pianist Micah McLaurin serenaded the crowd. The delightful weather and good cause lured 100 guests Geoffrey Bradfield, Emma Snowden Jones, New York State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright, Janna Bullock, Edgar Batista, Cole Rumbough, Jay Moorhead, Matthew Mamak, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Matt Richard, Flo Anthony, Jane Scher, Dr. Gary Rumbough, Jason Daniel Fair, Michele Herbert and Jarrod Freeman among them.
Jean rang a bell to get the lively reception’s attention. Elsie began, “Our Founding Families Gala theme is designed to highlight the story of the Mission Society which parallels the story of the building of our City. Over two centuries ago the Mission Society was founded by some of the City’s most enlightened residents to serve and enable those residents living in poverty. New generations of equally enlightened families have also responded to this call to serve and support. They knew that building a City takes the work, dedication and ingenuity of those with means as well as those without”.
This year the 200 year old Harlem based nonprofit has worked with over 3,700 diverse students and parents. Last year the Learning to Work Program gave 265 students paid internships. The students earned a collective $600,000 and gained professional work experience.
“Mission Society of New York City has been changing lives for more than two centuries, and I’ve been privileged — and humbled — to witness the impact it continues to make,” said Jean. “I encourage you to attend this year’s Founding Families gala, where you will support programs that serve underserved children in New York City.” Jean who has been described as the New Mrs Astor serves as Gala chair for the seventh time. The gala will be cochaired by Katrina Peebles and Stanley Rumbough.
The Founding Families Gala will be held the evening of Tuesday, June 3rd at the chic Capitale located at 130 Bowery in Lower Manhattan. The evening holds many surprises and one reveal is a musical performance from the cast of the Broadway show ,“The Choirboys”. The 96th gala marks the impact of the Y Mission Society of New York programs that have provided a lifelong love of learning and achievement for an underserved community.
