Event Name: Gala 2010: Flights of Fancy

Join the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in hosting  its annual black-tie social gala and afterparty at the Central Park Zoo.

Date: Thursday, June 10, 2010

Location: The Central Park Zoo

Charity/Nonprofit beneficiary: Wildlife Conservation Society

Event Chair: Gillian Hearst Simonds

Vivanista sat down with Event-chair, and animal lover, Gillian Hearst Simonds, to find out more about this fun and fabulous event to save wild animals.

What is it about the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) that made you willing to take on the role as event Chair?

I’ve always loved animals, and grew up with dogs, cats, cockatiels, goldfish and a parrotlet. Though these weren’t wild animals, I realize that the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) with the aquarium and the zoos around New York may be the only chance people have to see amazing creatures. It can just take one animal to make someone want to learn more about a species and how they can help them. Over the last few years, I’ve continued to become more involved with WCS and their events, and that is how I eventually became an event Chair.

What will be special about this annual event? And what new elements will be added this year?

Each year a different theme is selected based on areas or species that WCS works with around the world and in its five New York parks.  This year’s event is called “Flights of Fancy” and focuses on birds and their habitats. Last year was an exciting one because we introduced the Allison Maher Stern Snow Leopard Exhibit and its new inhabitants, Zoe, Bo and Chocolate.

What constitutes success for the fundraiser?

Success for me is when someone attends an event and leaves wanting to learn more about the organization and how they can get involved. Each ticket or donation is incredibly important, but if we can also engage people to act on behalf of wildlife and wild places, we will make a much greater impact.

How do you balance the quantifiable goal of raising money with the goal of broadening goodwill?

I think the two go hand-in-hand. Without the donations from all of WCS’s wonderful supporters we wouldn’t have the impact that we do, and through the trust that we have built as an organization we are able to broaden the goals of what we can accomplish. The economy can go anywhere, as we’ve all learned in the last year or so. If you have to narrow your fundraising down to a few things, make sure you’re supporting issues/topics that you personally care about.

What plans have you made to address problems that may arise?

I think the best plan is to be flexible! Problems arise, and you need to be able to adapt and deal with them. And don’t sweat the small stuff.

Are there any pre-event parties for benefactors?

There was a pre-gala event at the Judith Leiber store. Judith Leiber was gracious enough to sell 100 bags for $100 each with all proceeds benefitting the Wildlife Conservation Society.

What other organizations are you involved with?

I have helped raise money for ACRIA (AIDS Community Research Initiative of America) and the High Line. I am the Event Chair for UNICEF’s Next Generation. I am a chair for Operation Smile, and I have been for four years, in addition to being a Smile Ambassador

What will be the most compelling event element?

When guests enter the Central Park Zoo and see the spectacular crystal trees and décor by Preston Bailey. You walk in at dusk and are greeted by the lit up sea lion pool. It’s a night that you, literally, see the zoo in a whole new light.

What are you wearing to the event?

I will be wearing Marchesa and carrying a Judith Leiber peacock bag to the event.

What is your fundraising motto?

The more the merrier!

What qualities do you think make an event Chair successful?

I think just as with everything else you have to be passionate about what you’re supporting. If you care about what you’re involved in, the people around you will see that passion and support you.

What external resources do you use in your fundraising efforts (i.e. websites, mentors, etc.)?

Twitter, Facebook, email! Anything and everything that will broaden my reach.

What is one fundraising tip you’ve learned that you’re willing to share?

You never know unless you ask, whether it for an event space, a sponsor, a donation, whatever you need.

What are three words that best describe You?

Happy, honest and passionate