New York’s philanthropic community gathered in style on June 8 as the City of Hope East End Chapter / Jeanne Kaye League hosted its annual Award Luncheon at The Plaza Hotel, raising an impressive $400,000-plus to support groundbreaking cancer research and treatment initiatives.
City of Hope Auction
The elegant afternoon brought together more than 200 supporters, community leaders, and advocates committed to advancing innovative therapies for cancer patients and their families. The event was led by Lisa Fuld and her sister Kathy Kaye, alongside a dedicated board composed of some of New York City and the Hamptons’ most influential women.
Lisa Friedman Clark
One of the most moving moments of the day came as two remarkable cancer survivors, Lisa Friedman Clark, entrepreneur, and Jennifer Santiago, CEO of ArtRepublic Global, received the prestigious Spirit of Life® Award. Both women shared deeply personal stories about their cancer journeys, emphasizing the importance of early detection and expressing gratitude to the physicians and researchers at City of Hope who continue to transform lives through medical innovation.
Jennifer Santiago
Guests were also treated to a lively silent raffle and auction led by renowned New York auctioneer Lisa Rezak. The coveted auction items generated tremendous excitement throughout the ballroom, with standout offerings including a round of golf with five-time World Series champion Paul O’Neill, an exclusive dinner for two at the legendary Rao’s, the use of a Cadillac luxury vehicle for one month, a complete veneer makeover from a leading Manhattan cosmetic dentist, and a facelift procedure donated by a top New York plastic surgeon. Transportation for the honorees was graciously provided by Broadway Elite Limousine.
Lisa Rezak
The Spirit of Life Award has a distinguished legacy, with previous recipients including actresses Jane Fonda and Brooke Shields, former First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, television personalities Katie Couric, Hoda Kotb, Kathie Lee Gifford, Kelly Ripa, Robin Roberts, Joan Lunden, Rosanna Scotto, Paula Zahn, and many other influential women who have made meaningful contributions to their communities.
For more than four decades, the City of Hope East End Chapter/Jeanne Kaye League has played a vital role in supporting lifesaving medical advancements. Comprised of approximately 500 women from New York’s business, cultural, and philanthropic communities, the volunteer-driven organization has raised more than $14 million to accelerate innovative cancer treatments and improve patient care.
Jennifer Santiago, Lisa Friedman Clark
Founded in 1913, City of Hope has become one of the nation’s leading cancer research and treatment organizations. Its pioneering work has contributed to numerous breakthrough cancer therapies, as well as advancements in diabetes treatment, including the development of human synthetic insulin and monoclonal antibodies. Today, City of Hope continues to expand its national network of cancer care centers, bringing hope and innovative treatments to patients across the United States.
Photo credit: Steve Prue