Isaacs Family Homecoming Fundraiser a Success

On September 30, we shared music, champagne, a delicious meal prepared by our very own Soup’s Up team, and the long-awaited pleasure of one another’s company in our senior center “home.”

Greg Morris, who has led us thoughtfully and with passion for the last 7+ years as executive director, toasted the Isaacs Center’s long history of compassion and service, and the important work that lies ahead as we continue to promote dignity and self-reliance across generations of New Yorkers in partnership with Goddard Riverside.

We honored outgoing Isaacs Center board president Richard Nesson and longest-serving board member Gretchen Stone, who have given – and continue to give – their time, expertise, and devotion to our organization for many years.

Damion Samuels, who heads education and workforce development – including the culinary arts training program that prepares vulnerable young adults for sustainable careers – engaged celebrity chef JJ Johnson on leveraging his success to mentor trainees.

Finally, we enjoyed canapés and a beautiful, three-course meal prepared in our kitchen by Chef Cori Boudreaux and the training program grads now employed on our Soup’s Up team.

Thanks to those who attended, sponsored tables, donated, and bid on our silent auction items, we exceeded our fundraising goal, raising $100,000 for programs and services that will help sustain and uplift our neighbors in need.

Thanks…

…to Chef JJ Johnson for donating his time, his cookbook “Between Harlem and Heaven,” and his FIELDTRIP gift certificate for our event and silent auction, and for being an active source of support and employment for our young adults.

…to Our Honorees Richard and Gretchen, who continue to lead us graciously and powerfully

…to the Junior Board for sourcing some seriously fabulous auction items

To the Volunteers who transformed our humble home into an elegant event space for the evening and who welcomed and served our guests with grace

…to the student jazz musicians of Kaufman Music Center’s Special Music School High School who dazzled during cocktail hour

…to the Planning Committee – Ashley Higgins Dieck, Marion Hedges, Gail Berry O’Neill, Lee Wareham, and Amy Zeng – you are invaluable to this organization and so much fun to work with

Record your message of thanks to the honorees, board members, staff, and other members of the Isaacs Center family here!

View photos from our Isaacs Family Homecoming!