A powerful virtual evening of hope to support Abbott House's mission and celebrate the courageous frontline staff and well-deserving 2020 award recipients who make our work possible.

Streaming Live: Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at 6pm

Proceeds raised will support Abbott House in our mission, while keeping our essential workers safe and providing all that is needed to bring a sense of safety, healing and hope to children, families and adults entrusted to our care. To learn more about Abbott House, who we care for, and how we support communities throughout New York, visit our website at www.abbotthouse.net

The evening will feature a special musical performance by Nathan Carlisle, a member of the celebrated Metropolitan Opera Chorus.

 2020 Honorees:

• Dignity of Family Life Award-  Photo Safe Founder & CEO Karen Segal

Karen Segal is the founder and CEO of Photo Safe, an organization whose passionate mission is to create historic photographic records for foster youth. Photo Safe’s commitment to Abbott House has been unparalleled. Whether photographing parties, celebrations or taking portraits of kids in their Sunday best, Photo Safe fills emotional and psychological gaps with beautiful moments and memories that instill a true sense of belonging for so many children at Abbott House.

• Dave Wade Heart of Gold Award- Jesse Ruggiere

Jesse Ruggiere first became involved with Abbott House when a family member suggested he teach a yoga class to the children in our care. In Jesse’s words, “When I met the children and heard their stories of strength and adversity, I knew I had found my heroes.” Having undergone a fair share of trauma in his own life, Jesse formed an instant connection with the children. He is an avid advocate for Abbott House and is always the first person to answer our call for help

• Chairperson’s Leadership Award - Robert Ruotolo

Robert (Bob) Ruotolo has been been a member of the Abbott House Board of Directors since 2004, and the Chair of the Audit and Finance Committee since 2010. Prior to joining the Board, Bob was a mentor to a foster child in our residential program, and he often volunteered his time to assist the organization in reviewing and improving their financial information systems. His extraordinary service and commitment have helped strengthen and secure the future of our mission for generations to come.

• Joseph M. Pastore Difference-Maker Award - Daanyal Agboatwalla

Daanyal Agboatwalla is fiercely committed to supporting marginalized communities and fighting inequality wherever it may exist. He first became involved with Abbott House when he volunteered to be a Teacher’s Assistant at the TRC School to make a meaningful and impactful difference in the lives of migrant families. He continues to bring help and hope to a number of children in our care, most recently via ZOOM tutoring sessions. According to Daanyal, there is no purer type of joy than to make someone else feel important or cared for.

The livestream is free to join, but please consider purchasing a Sponsorship or making a donation. Your gift is 100% tax deductible! Simply click on the "Donate & Tickets" button at the top of this page.

Click Here to View Available Sponsorship Opportunities

If you have any questions, comments or concerns please contact Kristina Papa or Kate Giscombe at [email protected]. If you would like to help Abbott House fundraise for this important event, click on "Fundraise" at the top of this page to join our team!