Transforming Lives 2024
Transforming Lives 2024
Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s Transforming Lives Gala possible. We welcomed 193 guests to celebrate everyone supporting our mission to transform lives, from long-time supporters to those joining us for the first time. This year’s new venue, Tribeca Rooftop, provided the perfect backdrop for a night of inspiring speeches, heartfelt stories, and meaningful connections.
Thanks to all of your efforts, we raised $371,610.
Meet Our 2024 Circle of Mercy Honorees
Kathryne Lyons
Kathryne Lyons’ dedication to advocating for education and supporting immigrants has made her a pillar of the Mercy Center community throughout the years. Serving as an ESOL teacher and a member of our Board of Directors’ Development Committee, she embodies the spirit of giving back to her community. Throughout his career, Jonathan Teplitz has prioritized continuous learning and corporate social responsibility, including pitching and founding Technology for Social Good at JP Morgan Chase and his active involvement in the Alzheimer’s Association annual gala.
Justin and MacKenzie Forgberg
Justin and MacKenzie Forgberg’s commitment and generosity to Mercy Center has known no bounds since becoming involved six years ago. Between expanding the annual turkey drive to supply a full-sized delivery truck of donations each year to starting an annual women’s hygiene supplies drive that brings in over 200 toiletry bags, the Forgberg’s efforts have helped grow Mercy Center programs and made a tangible difference in the lives of our community members.
Sean Adcroft
Sean Adcroft’s contributions to Mercy Center have taken many forms since becoming involved in 1995, including teaching Job Readiness Program computer classes, redesigning our computer lab, and serving on our Board of Directors. His technological talents and deep connections have helped shape his exemplary dedication to Mercy Center.
Transformation Award Recipient
We also honored Hanty Almánzar Hernández as this year’s Mercy Center Transformation Award recipient. Her journey began in 2014 when she arrived in New York with her infant son, facing the challenges of adapting to a new culture and city. Through Mercy Center, she improved her English, found support, and embraced opportunities to give back. Today, Hanty is a published author and active volunteer, helping children in her community and exemplifying the transformation Mercy Center fosters every day.
Thank you to everyone who made this event possible!
Gala Committee
Daria Pizzetta
Linda Camardo
Nancy Gallin
Barry J. Gilman
Kathryne Lyons
Jackie Ostick
Emcee
Frank DiLella
Auctioneer
Jim Miller
Host Committee
Roseann Bonadia
Mary and Sean Davey
Barry J. Gilman
Ann Harris-Jacobs
Honorary Chairs
Maria Brinkmann
Blanca Cofino
Tim O’Connor and Peggy Rafferty
Daria Pizzetta and Charles Brown
MaryAnn Rich
Michael Termini
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