New Alternatives for Children Raises Record-Breaking $2.17 Million at Annual Gala Honoring David J. Sorkin of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. LP
PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 11/12/15
NEW YORK, NY – New Alternatives for Children (NAC), New York City’s only child welfare agency exclusively devoted to serving children with severe disabilities and chronic illnesses, held its 33rd NAC Kids Can Gala Benefit on October 27, 2015. The event, which honored David J. Sorkin, Member & General Counsel of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. LP, raised a record-breaking $2.17 million for NAC’s vital programs and services.
Over 700 top corporate philanthropic and community leaders gathered at the elegant Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers for the evening soiree. As guests arrived, they were treated to decadent hors d’oeuvres and cocktails overlooking the Hudson River’s nighttime sparkle. Bidding frenzies ensued for the graciously donated rare and one of a kind silent auction items on display.
Gala host Chris Cuomo of CNN them welcomed the distinguished audience entering the exquisite dining room, and explained the life-changing role NAC has had in thousands of families’ lives. The lights dimmed, and the stories of four young adults, whose childhoods were fraught with uncertainty, filled the screens. The alums shared the circumstances that led each of them to the organization, and how they are thriving since NAC stepped in. After the poignant video concluded, the stars took the stage along with Executive Director Dr. Arlene Goldsmith in a roar of applause.
NAC’s ability to continually go above and beyond for its children and families is reflected most in the remarkable people behind the agency. The event would not have been complete without honoring passionate and longtime supporter David Sorkin. Dinner chairs Kenneth Mehlman of KKR and Alan Klein of Simpson Thatcher Bartlett LLP presented Mr. Sorkin with a specially framed piece of art created by a NAC child. In accepting the honor, Mr. Sorkin spoke of the inspiring strength and perseverance of children and families touched by NAC and asked guests to join him in supporting the innovated and dedicated organization – which they gladly obliged.
About NAC
Annually, NAC serves 1,500 low-income medically fragile children and their families throughout the New York City Metropolitan area. We help children with severe disabilities and/or chronic illnesses achieve permanent and stable lives by enabling them to stay with their birth families through intensive family support services or assist in their adoption by loving and nurturing foster families. NAC helps our city’s most vulnerable children reach for and realize their potential. Today, NAC children are not only living with nurturing families but are also attending college, working in the community, and succeeding in areas never thought possible.
