On Thursday, September 30, 2010, Tony and Emmy Award winning actor and producer Hugh Jackman was the Guest of Honor at the Children of the City Benefit hosted by WABC Features & Lifestyle reporter Lauren Glassberg. Also in attendance was Miss U.S.A. 2010 Rima Fakih, and recently retired New York Giants wide receiver David Tyree.
Hugh Jackman was so gracious as he mingled with guests and supporters who came out in support of Children of the City. Guests gathered at Pier Sixty to help raise awareness of the educational needs and social challenges of underprivileged children in Brooklyn communities. The evening not only featured both a live auction and silent auction, but an exquisite dinner served against the magnificent décor and ambience of Pier Sixty.
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Children of the City Rocco Basile was honored by District Attorney Charles J. Hynes, for his tireless efforts in supporting the work of Children of the City. He was also recognized for his positive example of one that can make a great come around when given a second chance. Brooklyn Retail Market Manager for TD Bank Eileen Holmes, was honored with the 2010 Children’s Champion Award.
“This Benefit Gala was a tremendous opportunity to invite New Yorkers to partner with us to address the challenges these children have to face” said Joyce Mattera, the dynamic Founder and President of Brooklyn-based Children of the City, who has dedicated her life to helping disadvantaged and neglected children. “With a 48% dropout in a community of over 30,000 children, and 1 out of 4 living in abject poverty, Children of the City is dedicated to changing the culture of poverty. We are grateful that our friends and guests were able to come together in support of the work we are doing.”