Thursday, April 3, 2025
6PM – 10PM
An Evening Celebrating 130 Years of Hope, Strength, and Inspiration
Hosted by Monica Morales of WPIX 11
Located At
The Edison Ballroom
240 West 47th Street
New York, NY 10036
Contact
Details
The "Journey To 130" Honorees
The “Journey To 130” Honorees
Union Settlement’s “Journey To 130 – Rejuvenate, Refine, Revitalize” gala celebrates our 130 years of unwavering commitment to empowering and uplifting our community. We are excited to share our rich history, highlight our significant achievements, and unveil our vision for our future.
Dawn M. Zappetti, Chair, Board of Directors is proud to honor the following individuals at this year’s Gala.
EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP AWARD
Tom Allon
Publisher – City & State NY
Tom Allon receives the Excellence In Leadership Award for his leadership and pioneering work in local neighborhood-based journalism and the New York City publishing industry.
A lifelong New Yorker, Tom Allon has been a leader in local neighborhood-based journalism and the New York City publishing industry for the past 30 years. He is currently the CEO and owner of City and State NY, the most influential political media company in New York State. Before privatizing Manhattan Media in August 2001, Tom was the executive vice president of News Communications, Inc., a public media company that owned 23 newspapers in New York City’s boroughs, Long Island and Washington, D.C. He was involved with the start-up of the successful Capitol Hill daily, The Hill, and helped supervise News Communications’ expansion throughout NYC’s neighborhoods in Queens, the Bronx and Brooklyn. A former Journalism and English teacher at Stuyvesant High School, Tom helped create two successful public high schools, Eleanor Roosevelt H.S. on the Upper East Side and Frank McCourt H.S. on the Upper West Side. Tom was the Liberal-backed candidate for Mayor of New York City in 2013.
LEGACY OF SERVICE AWARD
Diana Ayala
Deputy Speaker – NYC Council
Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala receives the Legacy of Service Award for her unwavering and dedicated service to the 8th District in social service agencies and government, focusing on housing, gun violence prevention, and senior services.
Diana Ayala is a dedicated advocate with nearly two decades of experience serving the 8th District in social service agencies and government, focusing on housing, gun violence prevention, and senior services. Born in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, and raised in New York City, Diana’s early challenges, including navigating public housing and personal loss, shaped her commitment to public service. After earning her associate’s degree in Human Services from Bronx Community College, she served as a senior center director in East Harlem and later as Deputy Chief of Staff for Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito. Diana has played a key role in enacting transformative legislation, including reforms to the CityFHEPs program, syringe buy-back initiatives, and comprehensive plans to address the opioid crisis, all while amplifying the voices of her constituents on critical issues like mental health and education.
SOCIAL IMPACT PARTNERSHIP AWARD
Lorraine Cortés-Vazquez
Commissioner – New York City Department for the Aging
Lorraine Cortés-Vazquez receives the Social Impact Partnership Award for her dedication to promoting equity and diversity in older adult services while spearheading the Aging Cabinet to address the challenges faced by older New Yorkers.
Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez, appointed by NYC Mayor Eric Adams as Commissioner of the Department for the Aging in March 2022, is dedicated to promoting equity and diversity in older adult services while spearheading the innovative Aging Cabinet to unify city efforts in addressing the challenges faced by older New Yorkers. With a robust background that includes serving as Senior Advisor to former Mayor Bill de Blasio and leadership roles at EmblemHealth and AARP, she has consistently championed the needs of multicultural communities and the dignity of older adults. A former New York State Secretary of State and President of the Hispanic Federation, Cortés-Vázquez boasts over 30 years of distinguished experience across the nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors, earning her numerous accolades. She holds degrees from Hunter College and New York University, along with prestigious certifications from Harvard and Columbia University.
NON-PROFIT PARTNER AWARD
Denora Getachew
Chief Executive Officer – DoSomething.org
Denora Getachew receives the Non-Profit Partner Award for founding the largest organization empowering young people to create social change, and mobilizing millions to make an impact in their communities.
Denora Getachew is dedicated to fostering a more just, equitable, and inclusive society. As CEO of DoSomething.org, the largest organization empowering young people to create social change, she mobilizes millions to make an impact in their communities. Under her leadership since 2021, DoSomething.org has engaged over 8 million youth across thousands of campaigns in every U.S. area code and over 189 countries. Previously, Denora was the New York Executive Director of Generation Citizen, Campaign Manager & Legislative Counsel at the Brennan Center for Justice, and Policy Director for the NYC Public Advocate. A mother of three, including a teenage son, she is inspired by the young people who are actively demanding change, equity, and justice in this transformative moment.
DISTINGUISHED JOURNALISM AWARD
Monica Morales
Report/Anchor – WPIX 11 News
Monica Morales receives the Distinguished Journalism Award for her powerful activism in journalism and community advocacy.
Monica Morales is a powerful force in journalism and community advocacy, captivating viewers with her high-energy show “Monica Makes It Happen” at 5:45 p.m. With a remarkable track record of visiting over 150 events, fixing 45 homes, and restoring 55 buildings, she has earned accolades for her tireless work in NYC public housing, including a special invitation to the White House in 2018. Committed to uplifting families across the Tri-state area, Morales has hosted more than 90 live Facebook shows featuring influential guests such as the New York City Comptroller and Police Commissioner, delivering impactful results through her “Subsequent Fridays” series. An award-winning journalist, she boasts a National Emmy for Breaking News, five local Emmys, and an Edward R. Murrow Award, reflecting her dedication to excellence in reporting. Recognized for her community service with numerous honors—including the Canon Fredrick Boyd Williams Community Service Award and the Latina Voice of the People Award.
Sponsorship Packages, Tickets/Tables
Sponsorship Levels & Benefits
As Union Settlement approaches its 130th anniversary, “Rejuvenate” represents the spirit of renewal and growth. It signifies our commitment to revitalizing our programs, services, and community impact. This theme highlights the importance of staying energized, adaptive, and forward-thinking, ensuring that we continue to meet the evolving needs of East Harlem and beyond.
“Refine” emphasizes our dedication to continuous improvement. Over 130 years, Union Settlement has grown and evolved, but we remain focused on enhancing our effectiveness, efficiency, and excellence. This theme reflects our goal to fine-tune our strategies and approaches, ensuring that our work remains of the highest quality and that we continue to lead as a trusted and transformative community partner.
“Revitalize” speaks to our ongoing efforts to reinvigorate the community we serve. It underscores our mission to breathe new life into East Harlem, creating opportunities for individuals and families to thrive. Through our comprehensive services and initiatives, we aim to empower the community, fostering vitality and strength for the next generation.
Together, these three pillars—“Rejuvenate, Refine, and Revitalize”—embody Union Settlement’s enduring legacy of service and its vision for a brighter, stronger future as we celebrate 130 years of impact.
Sponsorship Includes
- 30 Premium VIP Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Tickets – Premier Seating Section
- Exclusive Access to our VIP Reception with Talent & Special Guests
- Pre-Recorded 60-Second Video Acknowledging the value of your partnership with Union Settlement
- Premier Logo Prominently Displayed on the Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Signage and Program
- Full-page Platinum Sponsor Advertisement in the Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Program
- Feature in Media Posts and Website as Gala Platinum Sponsor
- Special Recognition as Platinum Sponsor on the Union Settlement Website
Sponsorship Includes
- 20 Premium VIP Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Tickets – Premier Seating Section
- Exclusive Access to our VIP Reception with Talent & Special Guests
- Premier Logo Prominently Displayed on the Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Signage and Program
- Full-page Gold Sponsor Advertisement in the Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Program
- Special Recognition as Gold Sponsor on the Union Settlement Website
Sponsorship Includes
- 10 Premium VIP Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Tickets – Premier Seating Section
- Exclusive Access to our VIP Reception with Talent & Special Guests
- Premier Logo Prominently Displayed on the Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Signage and Program
- Half-page Silver Sponsor Advertisement in the Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Program
- Special Recognition Silver Sponsor on the Union Settlement Website
Sponsorship Includes
- 6 Premium VIP Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Tickets
- Exclusive Access to our VIP Reception with Talent & Special Guests
- Premier Logo Prominently Displayed on the Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Signage and Program
- Half-page Bronze Sponsor Advertisement in the Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Program
- Special Recognition as Bronze Sponsor on the Union Settlement Website
Sponsorship Includes
- 4 Reserved Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Tickets
- Premier Logo Prominently Displayed on the Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Signage and Program
- 1 Journey to 130 Anniversary Gala Tickets
Commemorative Journal Advertisement Packages
Commemorative Journal Advertisement Packages
Celebrate Union Settlement’s historic 130th Anniversary by placing an ad in our exclusive Commemorative Journal, a beautifully designed keepsake that will be distributed to all attendees at our milestone celebration event. The journal offers a unique opportunity to honor our legacy, show your support, and promote your business or organization to a distinguished audience of community leaders, philanthropists, corporate partners, and local residents.
By purchasing an ad in the journal, you are not only marking this important occasion but also contributing to Union Settlement’s continued work in the East Harlem community. Your message will be seen by hundreds of individuals who share a commitment to strengthening and uplifting the lives of those we serve.
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate Union Settlement’s 130 years of service to the East Harlem community with a special anniversary concert. This exclusive event will feature a live performance, reflecting the vibrant spirit and culture of the neighborhood we’ve served for over a century.
$3,000 “Rejuvenate, Refine, Revitalize” Full Page – Journal Ad
$2,500 Half Page Journal Ad
$1,500 Quarter Page Journal Ad
$250 Name listing in Journal under “Friends of Union Settlement” Journal Ad (No Ticket)
Make A Donation
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Your Sponsorship Impact
Your Sponsorship Impact:
As a Sponsor you will play a pivotal role in the success of our gala, ensuring that all event expenses are covered so that every dollar raised can go directly to supporting our mission.
Your contribution will have a transformative impact across all Union Settlement programs. Your support will fund critical initiatives that strengthen the foundation of our services, including educational programs, workforce development, mental health services, and senior services. This sponsorship will:
- Support the operation of our Early Childhood Education Centers for an entire year, ensuring over 250 children receive quality care and education.
- Enable us to expand our Youth Services programming, providing mentorship, job training, and college preparation for over 500 East Harlem youth.
- Support after-school programming for 400 children, offering a safe and supportive environment for academic enrichment and personal growth.
- Provide scholarships for 100 children to attend summer camp, helping them experience nature and outdoor learning.
- Provide comprehensive college prep services to 50 high school students, including SAT/ACT prep, application guidance, and one-on-one counseling.
- Support workshops on financial aid, scholarships, and navigating the college admissions process, helping students and their families make informed decisions.
- Fund college campus tours, giving students the opportunity to explore higher education options and envision their future.
- Your commitment ensures that students in our community have the resources and support they need to succeed academically and enter college with confidence.
- Provide comprehensive health and wellness programs for over 1,000 seniors, offering meals, exercise programs, and social services.
- Fund mental health counseling for 300 individuals and families, addressing the critical need for emotional support and mental wellness in the community.
- Fund workforce training programs for 500 individuals, helping them secure sustainable employment in industries such as healthcare, technology, and hospitality.
- Provide small business support services to 50 entrepreneurs, helping local businesses grow and thrive.
- Fund emergency support services for families in crisis, including food distribution, housing assistance, and access to healthcare.
- Provide technology and resources for our Adult Education programs, helping over 150 adults improve their literacy and career skills.
- Fund community-building initiatives, including neighborhood events, volunteer opportunities, and local partnerships.
- Provide essential services like legal assistance, case management, and financial counseling for over 100 East Harlem residents.
- Support capital improvements in community centers, making them safer and more welcoming for all residents.
This sponsorship offers exceptional programs and services to the East Harlem community and beyond.