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Wednesday, 18 May 2011 19:08 |
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 The 18th annual Gridiron Gala at the Waldorf-Astoria on Tuesday night raised more than $2 million for United Way of New York City. The event is co-presented by the New York Giants and New York Jets.
“United Way of NYC is dedicated to ensuring quality education for every child in New York City. The event’s proceeds will fund outcome-driven United Way programs that will transform lives and foster long-term, sustainable change,” said United Way of NYC CEO Gordon J. Campbell. “We are grateful for all the support from the NFL as well as the corporate and community leaders who joined together tonight to support this cause.”
Every year, the Gridiron Gala honors leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to giving back to the community.
The 2011Hometown Heroes were
- Chris Canty, Defensive Lineman, New York Giants; and
- Tony Richardson, Fullback, New York Jets
The 2011 Community Quarterbacks were:
- Barry Salzberg, CEO, Deloitte LLP
- Blackstone, represented by Laurence Tosi, Senior Managing Director and CFO.
All funds raised at the Gridiron Gala will support United Way-led initiatives that improve the lives of the city’s most vulnerable children by:
- Combating childhood obesity by engaging young children, families and staff at Head Start Centers in learning about the importance of healthy eating and exercise.
- Promoting early grade literacy – a key foundation for success in middle school and beyond.
- Helping at-risk youth make a smooth transition into high school and stay on track to on-time graduation.
More than 1,000 corporate and community leaders, current Jets and Giants players and NFL legends were on hand for the evening.
"I am humbled to be acknowledged as an advocate for those in need in my hometown,” said Chris Canty. “It is my hope that this recognition will encourage and inspire others to be more active in serving our community."
“United Way has changed the lives of so many young people and I am blessed to be able to do my part to help that effort,” said Tony Richardson.
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