Annual Dinner Raises More Than $240,000 for New Yorkers in Need
Annual Gala Highlights WellLife Network's Accomplishments
“What Matters to You . . . Matters to Us,” the newly launched theme of the WellLife Network was much in evidence as inspired corporate supporters and community leaders gathered at the agency’s 3rd Annual Gala Benefit Dinner, held Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at the corporate headquarters of Mutual of America, New York City.
The event raised more than $240,000 to support WellLife Network’s comprehensive array of health and social services that, each year, helps more than 25,000 individuals and families achieve greater personal and economic independence. “Through the work that we do, thousands of people in need benefit," said Sherry Tucker, CEO.
WellLife Network Tops Forbes Best Employer List in New York State
Forbes named WellLife Network to its inaugural list of America’s Best-New York State Employers 2019. "We are thrilled with this designation,” said Jeff Finkle, WellLife Network Chairperson.
This recognition highlights our determination to provide the best services to New Yorkers in need and reinforces the fact that WellLife Network offers a diverse range of career opportunities, competitive salaries, excellent benefits and the opportunity to work for a well-regarded organization in New York State.
Special guest Bill Ritter, Emmy Award-Winning Broadcaster, WABC-TV News, once again served as host and special guest for the event.
Sherry Tucker, CEO, commented on the challenges faced by all health and human services organizations in developing a caring and compassionate staff in offering creative and value-based services catering to the unique needs of the individuals and families we serve. This "I See You" approach addresses the ever-expanding base of individuals and families in need.
Ashley Griffin, renowned author and actress of TRIAL gave an inspiring keynote on the plight of sexual trauma survivors, admonishing both men and women who have experienced this to continue believing in their self-worth and value as contributing members of society.
Corporate Partners Make A Difference
Brian Rooney, Senior Vice President, Mutual of America received the WellLife Network Corporate and Philanthropic Leadership Award.
In accepting the award, Mr. Rooney commented, “WellLife Network is a valued partner of Mutual of America. We try to give back and enrich the lives of the staff and people WellLife serves. It is our way of saying 'thank you'."
Mutual of America, one of the largest retirement plan companies in the United States, provides group and individual variable annuity contracts and related services for the pension, retirement, and long-range savings needs to hundreds of organizations and their employees.
Beverly Garcia was honored with the Elaine and Thomas A. Blumberg Staff Inspiration Award, thanks to the generous funding from esteemed board member Tom Blumberg.
An emotional highlight of the evening included the personal stories of two WellLife Network program participants, Andrew Alba and Christine and Yassah Johnston who benefit from the agency’s services.
Corporate Partners Make A Difference
WellLife Network acknowledges the support of major benefit donors, including:
• Visionary Sponsor: Mutual of America
• Patron Sponsor: Lamb Insurance Services
• Supporting Sponsor: BDO USA, LLP; Carr Business Systems; Elaine and Tom Blumberg; CSD Housing, LLC; Keezac Pharmacy; Levy, Stopol & Camelo, LLP; Angela & Anthony Rinella; Joanne and Joseph Stein, Jr; Urban Architectural Initiatives and WellLife Network Executive Staff.
• Partner Sponsor: Gallagher; Jackson Lewis, P.C.; The Richman Group; TD Bank; TGI Office Automation andTristate Apartment Furnishers
WellLife Network, one of the region’s largest and most diversified health and human services organizations, has touched the lives of more than 1 million people over the past 40 years.
To view the Annual Gala Photo Album, click here.
