NYC’s philanthropic and animal advocacy communities came together in spectacular fashion as NYC Second Chance Rescue hosted its 6th Annual Rescue Ball at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. The signature fundraising gala delivered an inspiring evening dedicated to saving the lives of vulnerable dogs and cats, reinforcing the organization’s growing impact across New York and beyond.
Georgina Bloomberg (Image Credit: BFA / Kevin Czopek)
This year’s highly anticipated event honored Ralph Macchio, alongside Rob Thomas and Marisol Thomas of the Sidewalk Angels Foundation, as well as Dr. Tom Walker. Each received the prestigious Angel & Hero Award for their unwavering commitment to animal welfare and rescue initiatives.
Rob Thomas, Marisol Thomas (Image Credit: BFA / Kevin Czopek)
The star-studded guest list featured notable advocates and familiar faces including Georgina Bloomberg and Elaine Hendrix. The evening’s entertainment was equally memorable, with a dynamic performance by John Lloyd Young, while DJ GEO ROC kept the dance floor energized late into the night.
Guests indulged in handcrafted cocktails by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, alongside a thoughtfully curated vegetarian and vegan menu. The gala also featured both live and silent auctions, celebrating a major milestone 17 years of rescue work and more than 17,000 lives saved.
Ralph Macchio (Image Credit: BFA / Kevin Czopek)
One of the night’s most talked-about moments came during the live auction, where a stunning 1966 sky-blue Fiat 500 Jolly conversion from Hampton Jollys ignited a bidding frenzy. The rare vehicle ultimately sold for an impressive $85,000, underscoring the generosity and enthusiasm of attendees.
Proceeds from the Rescue Ball will directly support NYC Second Chance Rescue’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome critically injured, neglected, and at-risk animals. Funds will also expand essential community programs, including medical care, free microchipping, and spay-and-neuter initiatives.
Additional notable attendees included David Lauren, Lauren Bush Lauren, Mike Woods, Dylan Lauren, Joe Gatto, and Jennifer Brooks, among many others who showed their support.
Dylan Lauren, Paul Arrouet (Image Credit: BFA / Kevin Czopek)
With continued backing from top sponsors including TD Bank and Bloomberg Philanthropies, NYC Second Chance Rescue remains a vital force in animal welfare. Since its founding in 2009, the nonprofit has saved over 17,000 animals, focusing on those most at risk, and continues to expand its lifesaving work through its adoption center and foster network.
The Rescue Ball stands as a powerful reminder that glamour and giving back can go hand in hand proving that compassion is always in style.