Last Wednesday the New York City Mission Society held the Champions for Children Gala at The Plaza Hotel on ritzy Fifth Ave and Central Park.
Guests dazzled into the gorgeous grand ballroom for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres of mini hot dogs with scripted mustard and lobster bites to the sounds of the Minisink Drum Corp.
Host Bill Ritter from WABC introduced the society’s Interim Executive Director, Maria Orengo who kicked off proceedings, before each of the honorees were thanked individually by a Youth Ambassador, whose life has been directly influenced by the New York City Mission Society.
The dashingly accomplished and unassuming Valentino D. Carlotti (Partner – Goldman, Sachs & Co.), Jean Shafiroff (Advocate and Philanthropist) and the Founders of the Sisulu-Walker Charter School of Harlem, New York State’s first charter school, Steven and Maureen Klinsky and William Allen were honored by Gala chairs Lloyd W. Brown II, John U. Moorhead and Stanley H. Rumbough.
A wonderful time was had by all at this inspiring and motivating ball that highlights this organization which for over 200 years have been helping New York City children, youth, and families break the cycle of poverty by creating comprehensive programs that 
focus on the areas of education, workforce development, prevention, youth development and community building.
Pictured:
Jean Shafiroff, Valentino D. Carlotti
Carlotti
Members of the board and honorees surrounding Former Mayor David Dinkins, Shafiroff & Carlotti.
Great event!