Wednesday, May 5, 2010

More Than One Million Dollars Raised at Annual Benefit!

Carver Center has reached a record fundraising level following its annual gala, held Saturday April 24th at The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. State Senator Suzi Oppenheimer led the effort to get the Center a State funded grant totaling $750,000, which, combined with the generous giving of gala guests and area residents, resulted in a total of $1,223,795 in donation

“The generous grant we received under the stewardship of Senator Oppenheimer and the amount of money raised at the Gala primarily from residents in the surrounding community, reflects the incredible support the Center has from all of our neighbors. We have the honor to serve so many Port Chester families, and the proceeds from the evening along with the grant will allow us to continue improving the services we offer, giving our local families the support they need and helping the kids in our programs achieve their goals,” said Kerry Walsh, Carver Center Executive Director.

The Annual Gala event, co-chaired by Augustina Santucci of Rye and Clare Butler of Harrison, drew more than 400 guests to The Capitol Theatre, including keynote speaker Senator Suzi Oppenheimer. Also in attendance were State Assemblyman George Latimer, Westchester County Legislator Martin Rogowsky, Head Coach of the New York Knicks Mike D’Antoni, Assistant to President for Basketball Operations for the New York Knicks Allan Houston, and Dateline NBC correspondent Chris Hansen.

“The real stars are the kids,” said Senator Oppenheimer. “Carver is all about creating Community, and the Community stepped forward as did the State to show its support. This was a very special night and I am delighted to help this wonderful center.”