NEW YORK CITY —The annual To the Rescue! Gala supporting the work of the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International took place on Nov. 11, 2022, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City and raised over $2 million to benefit the organizations’ work, including animal rescue efforts and fur-free campaigns.
Award-winning radio and television talk show host, executive producer and author Andy Cohen served as host of the star-studded affair, which brought together hundreds of celebrities, supporters and fashion executives including actors Justin Theroux, Amy Sedaris, Styles P, and Sarah Jeffrey, vegan chef and restauranteur Pinky Cole, editor and host Laura Brown, U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, and many more to celebrate a fur-free future and highlight the organizations’ victories for animals.
“Tonight was such an important night for animals. With the money raised, the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International will be able to fight for all animals to fulfill their ultimate goal of making the world a more humane place. I am proud to have hosted and been a part of this event and know that I was able to help more animals,” said Cohen.
Throughout the evening, signature sponsor Neiman Marcus displayed a storefront of animal friendly products, while Materials Innovation Initiative showcased pioneering fabrics and textiles. Nefertiti Greene, president of Science and Diagnostics for Mars Petcare, accepted the Corporate Consciousness Award on behalf of Mars, Incorporated for its support to improve the lives of homeless and vulnerable companion animals around the world. Guests were regaled with music by DJ Mad Marj and a gourmet plant-based dinner by vegan Chef Eddie Garza.
“It was remarkable to be in a room filled with so much excitement for our mission to create a more compassionate world for animals,” said Kitty Block, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States and CEO of Humane Society International. “These incredible people and companies are doing invaluable work to help move us toward a more humane and sustainable future. Thank you to everyone who made this evening possible. The money raised tonight will help continue our fight to protect all animals.”
Georgina Bloomberg and Suzy Welch served as gala chairs. The leadership committee included Susan Atherton, Ian Bass, Wendy and Howard Berk, Yolanda Berkowitz, Peggy Bunker, Wayne S. Flick, Allison Broude Friedberg, Kimberly Handler, Gretchen Jelinek, Cathy Kangas, Jennifer Laue, Terry Rakolta, Debra Shore and Courtney Stroum Meagher.
In addition to Neiman Marcus Group, the gala was made possible by the generous support of sponsors including Moroccanoil, Mars, Dolce & Gabbana, ROI Solutions, Givebridge, Stray Dog Capital, Save the Duck, Liberty Mutual Insurance, TJX, Chapmine Cubine Allen + Hussey, Merkle and Mylo.