2019 Gala Spectacular
Sonny Hagendorf, Dawna Michelle Fields, Erica Hill, GEM Management Partners LLC (George, Edward, and Michael Nukho)
With more than 225 guests in attendance, The Guidance Center of Westchester’s (TGCW) annual gala not only raised vital funds but also increased awareness about the critical needs of those in our community who are impacted by homelessness, mental illness, substance abuse, and poverty.
“I’m here today because of The Guidance Center of Westchester,” says David R., a client who shared with gala attendees his personal 30-year struggle with addiction and homelessness. “The good thing about The Guidance Center is that they didn’t give up on me. I want to say thank you for all the support…because I don’t have to suffer and cry myself to sleep in abandoned buildings anymore.” David currently lives in an apartment supported by one of TGCW’s housing programs.
The evening also focused on the work of our dedicated honorees: Dawna Michelle Fields (Colgate-Palmolive / Bright Smiles, Bright Futures); GEM Management Partners LLC (George, Edward, and Michael Nukho); and Sonny Hagendorf (Columbian Stamp Company Inc.) CNN anchor and national correspondent Erica Hill acted as emcee.
Guests enjoyed spirited bidding during the live and silent auctions as well as an abundance of fun and creative raffle prizes. The party continues online through CharityBuzz.com where fans of American Ninja Warrior can win tickets to the taping of the 2019 finals being held in Las Vegas in June.
The gala is the largest source of unrestricted funds which help support the many programs and services offered by TGCW. Each year, more than 5,000 people turn to the agency for help and support. TGCW empowers our program participants to become active members of their community through education, treatment, housing, and rehabilitative and vocational services.