Vivanista recently caught up with event chair, Capera Ryan to get the inside scoop on the fabulous fundraiser.

Describe the AFA’s upcoming gala in a few sentences… What makes the event unique?

This is a very special evening where guests are able to celebrate artists and others in the art world who are making a difference. The American Federation of the Arts has a wonderful history of honoring not only the artists but those who support and lead in the art world.

How many years has the event been in existence?

The AFA was founded over 100 years ago and has been supporting its programming through many different events—with the annual gala being the major event. The Gala was first hosted at the Metropolitan Club in 1979, and because of the wonderful following of patrons, artists and leaders in the art world we have been able to continue to recognize and encourage the accomplishments of some of the most talented and committed individuals.

Who are this year’s honorees?

Our honorees are the performance artist Marina Abramovic and the Director of the National Gallery, Earl A. Powell III, and we’re thrilled to be honoring them both. Abramovic’s work includes interventions and sound pieces, video works, installations, photographs, solo performances, and collaborative performances, and she is considered one of the most extraordinary and challenging artists of our time. Powell has a long and extremely distinguished history in the arts and has overseen an amazing array of projects at the National Gallery

The Honorary Chair, Elizabeth “Betty” Blake, is a longtime patron of the arts and a dear friend to me. She has been a resident of Dallas since the 1940s and lived in Newport, RI, almost every summer of her life. She has been a major advocate of modern and contemporary artists, and collecting works of art is her great passion. At 95, she is an inspiration to all those who have an interests in making a difference in the arts and nurturing the wonderful opportunities for artists, institutions, and patrons.

Proceeds from the evening will support AFA. Can you tell us a bit about the organization and how it contributes to the community?

The American Federation of the Arts is a nonprofit institution that organizes art exhibitions for presentation in museums around the world, publishes exhibition catalogues, and develops educational materials and programs.

How many participants are you expecting?

It is wonderful as we have over 150 guests joining us from all over the world.

Is this an open event? If so, how much are tickets, and what percentage of proceeds will go to AFA?

This is an open event and tickets range from $15,000 to $350. All the proceeds from the gala will go toward AFA exhibitions, lectures, catalogs, and educational programs.

What has been one of the biggest challenges in planning the event so far?

The three co-chairs are all very involved in the planning for the gala, and being the chair from Dallas it is always a challenge to coordinate calls and schedules.

What external resources have you used in your fundraising/outreach efforts?

We have used all of the above. We live in a time where we have information coming at us in all directions, and that is the best way to get in front of our audience.

What characteristics do you think make an event chair successful?

Commitment to the cause, passion, enthusiasm, wonderful and supportive friends, a true vision of what needs to be accomplished, and delegating the carrying out of all the details to capable people.

What are you wearing to the event?

I am wearing a Cartier necklace given to me by my grandmother and a black Michael Kors satin dress.

What is your fundraising motto?

“Passion, enthusiasm, great friends, and a vision make anything possible!”

Dr. Samuel Zhou

Over forty top chefs, from numerous countries and parts of the U.S., competed for two days in the heart of Times Square. The winning Chefs, in five distinctive regional cuisines, prepared last night’s extraordinary meal at Chelsea Piers, Pier 60.

Chef's for the Emperor's Banquet

A special presentation during the evening was made to Kerry Kennedy, President of The RFK Center for Justice & Human Rights. Their mission is to realize Robert Kennedy’s dream of a peaceful and just world by advancing human rights. Ms. Kennedy gave a riveting speech and quoted the eloquence of her father.

Cory Lee Violinist

Food Networks celebrity host Marc Summers served as a special guest host. He discussed the importance of NTD’s mission and shared with the crowd his extensive food knowledge while listing the 10 salivating courses they would be eating.

Martial Artist Long Fei

To salute and celebrate NTD’s 10th anniversary, donors and sponsors from around the globe contributed their products and services. There was an Emperor’s Vodka ice luge & Atlantico Rum served ice cold mojitos. Villa Magnolia was a highlight of the evening, sponsored by Domodimonti Wines. Black River Caviar provided more than a tasting– they served ‘generous samples’ of exquisite Ossetra Caviar. A tasteful signature gift bag included spa products by Cornelia and Dilmah Tea.

Han Couture

NTD was established 10 years ago and is a nonprofit, multi-language TV network. The station serves more than 250 million potential viewers in China and around the world. With reporters in over 70 cities worldwide, NTD is a pioneer in broadcasting uncensored news directly into mainland China via satellite and the Internet. NTD is a longtime proponent of the human rights of journalists in their never ending quest for “Freedom of the Press.” Dr. Samuel Zhou spoke at length about how 9/11 affected the way reporters presented news to the public. He discussed how important it is to have a news station that can deliver messages without any constraints.

Han Couture

Han Couture

Han Couture

Zhong Lee, Patrick Harvey, Kerry Kennedy, Tim Gannon, Jane Holzer

Kean Wong, Kerry Kennedy, Pithet Ong, Greg Grossman

Steve Norris, Lilly Chang, Miya Zhu, Pia Maria Norris

Ava Roosevelt, Judy Grubman

Donna Soloway, Dick Soloway

Stuart Sundlun, Natalie White

Photos courtesy of: Bob Rich

Tell us about your upcoming Bachelor/ette auction. What makes the event unique?

The event will also include a “Win a Date with a WGIRL” where the highest bidder gets to choose a WGIRL of their choice to take out on a date. We also offer an hour open bar and great raffle/silent auction packages.

The event is organized by WGirls. Who is WGirls and how do they give back to the community?

WGIRLS NYC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded by a small group of young professional women from New York City and incorporated in 2007. The WGIRLS organization is dedicated to serving underprivileged women and children and, in times of crises, people in need around the world. By partnering with other nonprofit organizations working to achieve similar goals, WGIRLS is able to provide those less fortunate with the support and resources necessary to achieve health, happiness, and the ability to build and lead successful adult lives. Since its inception, the WGIRLS has grown to a large organization with chapters in 15 cities, and has donated over $500,000 to support dozens of local charitable organizations in New York and across the country. For more information on WGIRLS and our ongoing efforts please visit www.wgirls.org.

How many years has the event been in existence? What makes the event a success each year, and how has it been changed this year to keep it fresh?

This is our 5th auction, and every year we have an amazing crowd, big bidders and great sponsors/donors. Last year our highest bid was $1,000. The event was so amazing that we asked comedian Bones Rodriquez and DJ Chachi to return this year and they are both determined to help us raise even more money.

This year we threw a meet and greet with the bachelor/ettes so they could all meet each other and potential bidders could meet them as well. It was a great night and I hope we spiked some interest in potential bidders. The bachelor/ettes did an amazing job mingling with the guests. We will also be featuring the date package for each bachelor/ette in the program this year so each bidder will know exactly where they are going.

Who will be some of the Bachelors/Bachelorettes auctioned off?

We have great bachelor/ettes this year, including Phil who is Mr. September in the 2012 Nation’s Bravest (fireman) Calendar, Scott who founded Party with Purpose, Marianne a private Pilates instructor and Erica a teacher so she knows how helpful our donation to Donorschoose.org will be. You can check out all our bachelor/ettes at http://wgirls.org/new-york/bachelor-bachelorettes.

Proceeds of the evening will support Donors Choose. Can you tell us a bit about their goals and why they were chosen as the beneficiary?

 DonorsChoose.org was created in 2000 so individuals could connect directly with classrooms in need. DonorsChoose.org engages the public in public schools by giving people a simple, accountable and personal way to address educational inequality. They envision a nation where children in every community have the tools and experiences needed for an excellent education.

How many participants are you expecting? Will there be any surprise guests?

We are expecting over 700 guests at the event and to be at full capacity at the Highline Ballroom. You will have to see if there will be any surprise guests. After all, it’s not a surprise if everyone knows.

Is this an open event? If so, how much are tickets, and what percentage of proceeds will go to Donorschoose/WGirls?

Tickets are available at www.wgirlsnyc5thauction.charityhappenings.org and a single ticket is $40. Attendees also have the option to purchase four tickets for $140, table for $450 which includes 6 tickets, access to the upstairs bar and VIP entrance and host committee for $800 which includes 20 tickets, VIP entrance, access to the upstairs and the group’s name in the program. The majority of proceeds go to Donorschoose.org and 10 percent of proceeds go to WGIRLS NYC.

Who are some of your event sponsors?

We have three types of sponsors: liquor sponsors for an hour open bar (Satisfaction Vodka, OneHope Wine, and Anheuser Busch), date sponsors, and raffle/silent auction donors. We have some amazing date packages planned, for instance, sailing on the Hudson, dinner at amazing restaurants, wine tastings, hip hop tours, cupcake making classes and plays. Our dates are going to have an amazing time.

What has been one of the biggest challenges in planning the event so far?

Getting the donations and sponsors we need in order to make the event as successful as it is.

What external resources have you used in your fundraising/outreach efforts?

We have posted the site on numerous websites and blogs, we are using Charityhappenings.org as our ticketing page, and we are utilizing Facebook and Twitter as much as possible. We are currently announcing a bachelor and bachelorette every day on Facebook so our followers will get to see the great people they can bid on at the auction.

What characteristics do you think make an event chair successful?

Patience, determination and optimism. All three are necessary when you are trying to find sponsors and donors for any event. It is also needed when you are encouraging the other members who are hitting the same walls when they are calling places for donations.

What is WGIRL’s fundraising motto?

The WGIRLS motto is Looking Forward…Giving Back

For more information about WGIRLS- visit them at http://wgirls.org/new-york-city

Jackie Shafiroff, Jean Shafiroff, Liz Shafiroff

This year Charitybuzz was the official online auction dealer for the event and promoted exciting experiences and packages including a backstage tour of NBC with Chuck Scarborough, a signed copy of Keith Richards’ biography, tickets and backstage passes to the Big Apple Circus, and a round of golf at the exclusive Maidstone Golf Club. Interested bidders still have the chance to make offers online until Thursday August 18, 2011 at 3:00 PM by visiting http://www.charitybuzz.com/auctions/arfhamptons.

See more event photos below.

Dr. Lewis Berman

Cindy Adams

Nicole Gabona, Annie Coleman, Kristin Johnson, Michelle Chae, Jennifer Corwin

All photos: Courtesy of Adriel Reboh from Patrick McMullan

Stephanie, Hessler, Laura Lofaro Freeman, Jean Shafiroff, Sara Herbert Galloway, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Katlean DeMonchy

The Summer Party, ‘A Tropical Paradise,’ was chaired for the second year by Jean Shafiroff who expressed her gratitude to this year’s committee members and Hospital staff for their hard work and support. “It is an honor for me to again chair this important event and we are anticipating another success!” Hospital President and CEO Robert S. Chaloner greeted guests, joking that “when staying in the Hamptons, the last place you would want to be is in a hospital!”

Chris Obetz, Sandra McConnell, Bob Chaloner, and Debbie Bancroft

The time-honored tradition supports the Hospital’s Jenny and John Paulson Emergency Department, which was named after the Paulsons in recognition of their generous support. The emergency department serves more than 25,000 residents and visitors annually on Long Island’s South Fork. Tiffany & Co. was the Honorary Jewelry Chair, Barclays Wealth was the Honorary Corporate Chair, Cushman & Wakefield was the Honorary Commercial Real Estate Chair, and Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate was the Honorary Residential Real Estate Chair.

Bob Chaloner, Senator Ken LaValle

Attendees danced the night away to the magical and memorable music of The Alex Donner Orchestra in a tropical getaway created by renowned interior designer Tony Urrutia. The night was an elegant and tasteful affair, catered by Robbins Wolfe Eventeurs, and included a raffle and silent auction with enticing items, among them a $25,000 cash prize, a trip to Paris, a Tiffany & Co. clutch, and an Oscar De La Renta handbag.

Jean Shafiroff, Martin Shafiroff

ABOUT THE JENNY AND JOHN PAULSON EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT: Southampton Hospital treats more than 25,000 people annually in the Jenny and John Paulson Emergency Department. Its board-certified Emergency Medicine physicians and specialty-trained staff are available 24 hours a day to treat a full spectrum of patient accidents and illnesses from minor cuts to heart complications. Southampton Hospital is the ambulance destination when a heart attack or stroke is suspected because it has the most sophisticated, non-invasive cardiac diagnostic and monitoring technology available, and is a New York State-designated Stroke Center. Awarded the HealthGrades Patient Safety Awardâ„¢ in 2008 and 2010, Southampton Hospital is an affiliate of the Stony Brook University Medical Center, a member of the East End Health Alliance, and is accredited by the Joint Commission.

See more event photos below.

Howard Lorber, Jean Shafiroff, and Bob Chaloner

Sandra Mcconnell, Jean Shafiroff, Melanie Wambold, and Sharon Kerr

Nancy Stone, Martin Stone, Yvonne Mccallum, and Bill Mccallum

Stephanie Hessler, Stephen Hessler

Ellen Scarborough, Chuck Scarborough

Jean Shafiroff, Sara Herbert Galloway, and Lucia Hwong Gordon

Katlean DeMonchy, Sheline Rosenblum, Mario Singer, and Ramona Singer

Johnathan Farkas, Somers Farkas

Photos courtesy: R. Cole for Rob Rich

Selita Ebanks

The evening started with a cocktail hour and silent auction where guests enjoyed drinks and mingled around displays of auction items, including sports memorabilia, jewelry sets, works of art, and pop culture memorabilia.

Dylan Walsh, Noah Bean, Bryan Batt

Celeb guests included Hugh Jackman, Broadway star, Anthony Mackie; Author and media personality, Dr. Ruth Westheimer; “The Hurt Locker” star Anthony Mackie; Victoria’s Secret Super Model, Selita Ebanks,  “Nip-Tuck” star Dylan Walsh; “Mad Men” star Bryan Batt; and Miss New York- Kaitlin Monte who had the privilege of presenting the evenings honoree, Vickie Del Toro.

Eric Kelly

Guests were then ushered into the seating room where a three course dinner was served to the soothing sounds of a live band.  Following dinner, the live auction began. Auction items included exclusive getaways, special dinners, and donations made by celebrity guests: including a dinner date with Miss New York, Kaitlin Monte.  Guests then made their way to the dance floor to celebrate the successful event, having raised approximately $150,000 for Children of the City.

Noah Bean, David Hryck, Dr. Ruth Westheimer, Miss New York, Kaitlin Monte

About Children of the City:

Since 1981, Children of the City has been serving the underprivileged children in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.  Starting out as a children’s prevention outreach in the early years, services have evolved to include educational support, counseling and mentorship, financial and career guidance, legal guardianship, social and life skills training, and much more. Over one thousand children are visited every single month. Services are provided to hundreds on a daily and weekly basis and additional referrals are made to connect the children and their families with partnering agencies, all with the goal to help them break the cycles of poverty and abuse.

See more photos below.

Georgia Curatola, Miss New York, Kaitlin Monte, Gerry Curatola

Noah Bean, Dr. Ruth Westheimer

Joyce Mattera, Michael Schweinsburg

Eric Kelly, Joyce Mattera, Holt Mccallany, Joeph Mattera

The board

All pictures: Courtesy of Rob Rich

Celebrity guests included Betsey Johnson (who threw in the ball to mark the start of the game), Russell Simmons and Kelly Klein, among many other high profile Hamptonites.

Vanity Belles sing at the 15th annual Bridgehampton Polo challenge at Two Trees Farm

Lulu Johnson and Betsy Johnson attend the 15th annual Bridgehampton Polo challenge

The afternoon begun with The Vanity Belles performing the national anthem live followed by guests watching high profile polo players like the face of Ralph Lauren Nacho Figueras take to the CIRCA Championship Field.

Dave Levinbook and Neil Levinbook

The Blue Star Jets VIP Tent also included  live music by DJ Airloom and delicious bites by Southampton Social Club.  Bridgehampton Polo Club will be receiving a Five Star Diamond Award for their 15^th Anniversary Season, to be presented by Founder Joe Cinque and Award Winning Journalist Marvin Scott.

DJ AirLoom

Additional 2011 season partners include:  Urban Zen Foundation, Sector, Alex and Ani, Nest Seekers, Whitmores, The Aurelia Group, Niche Media, 4 Orange, Sobieski, Aperol, Martin Codax, Don Miguel Gascon, Vita Coco and Smartwater.

See more event photos below.

Leesa Rowland, Larry Wohl, Irwin Mensch, Marlo Sariol, Heinz Haas

Sarah Halpin, Christina Halpin, Debbie Randazzo, Oliver

Millen Magese, Russell Simmons, Imany Doucoure, Mari Malek

All photos: Courtesy of Rob RIch

Founded in 1875 in Manhattan, The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (The NYSPCC) is the world’s first child protection agency. The NYSPCC works to develop and carry out programs that protect children from harm and ensure their healthy development. Vivanista recently caught up with Junior Committee member, Abigail Sullivan to learn more about their mission to prevent child abuse.

How and when was NYSPCC inspired and created?

It all began with a little girl known only as “Mary Ellen” in 1874. “Mary Ellen” was found neglected and brutally beaten by her foster mother. At that time in history, animals were legally protected from inhumane treatment by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals but there was no such organization for abused or neglected children. Following Mary Ellen’s case, a small group of impassioned citizens in New York City came together in her defense to become the first organized child protective institution in the country — The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

What is the overall goal of NYSPCC? How do you hope to impact change?

The NYSPCC focuses on the complex needs of abused and neglected children, and working with their caregivers, by providing superior counseling, legal and educational services. The NYSPCC believes that everyone must get involved in keeping children safe from abuse and neglect. It’s not just the responsibility of the government, it is friends, neighbors, relatives, teachers – it’s everyone’s responsibility to take action if they think a child is in danger.

Change has to come through research, communication and training initiatives, we work to expand these programs to prevent abuse and help more children and families heal.

How do you quantify the impact your organization has?

The NYSPCC has investigated more than 650,000 cases on behalf of over two million children and has educated over 47,000 professionals working with children on child abuse and neglect issues. The impact of our work can be felt nationwide, as one of our most important duties is to train professionals all over the country on how to recognize abuse and what to do if it is suspected.

What has been your organization’s biggest accomplishment to date?

We cover a lot of ground at The NYSPCC. There is amazing work done everyday – the staff works closely with troubled families and helps parents repair or restore their relationships with their children– giving many children and parents the opportunity and tools with which to heal and live a good life.

Do you have a volunteer fundraising organization? If so, what is their charter?

Our Board of Directors oversees our fundraising efforts and meets monthly to help the agency development team with their work. We also have an amazing Junior Committee that holds an annual event for us every year raising both funds and awareness of our work with the young professionals in NYC.

Who are your partners or sponsors? Do you work with any other volunteer groups or non-profit organizations?

The NYSPCC has a long standing and successful relationship with the NYC Administration for Children’s Services and the NYC Family Court. Most of the families we serve are referred from these organizations. On the funding side, we work closely with many corporations and foundations that support our mission.

What are the top ways that NYSPCC raises funds?

The NYSPCC raises funds through individual gifts, corporate and foundation grants, a newsletter appeal twice a year, government grants, and special events. On-line donations can be made at www.nyspcc.org.

What is the most effective fundraiser, event, or campaign that you, or NYSPCC, has ever been a part of?

Our last annual gala surpassed its goal of $500,000, generating over $630,000 for The NYSPCC’s work with NYC’s children.

How do you thank your donors?

Our donors are sent personal letters signed by the Board President and the Executive Director. We also host donor breakfasts/luncheons and discuss topics pertinent to raising children in NYC to keep parents/donors “in the know” about the latest issues impacting children. We also laud them in our annual report, our newsletter and through the awards ceremony at our annual gala.

What external resources do you use in your fundraising and outreach efforts?

The NYSPCC’s website, on-going public relations campaign, the internet, and Executive Director, Dr. Mary Pulido’s Huffington Post blog are all a part of outreach. In addition, for the first time this year, The NYSPCC launched a texting campaign with Mgive.com to help us reach new audiences. (by texting NYSPCC to 50555 people can donate $10 to help The NYSPCC’s programs)

How can we get involved/help?

We would love more young professionals to get involved in our Junior Committee, and I urge anyone interested to reach out to The NYSPCC. We also host an annual toy drive for the holidays and always welcome the donations of new toys for our children.

Do you have any upcoming events?

We are very excited about our upcoming Junior Committee benefit “Empire State of Mind” coming up on Thursday, May 26th at the The Empire Room in the Empire State Building. It will be a wonderful evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a great silent auction.
On Thursday, November 10th, we will hold our annual Gala at the Plaza Hotel. We will honor Allan and Tamara Houston, founders of the Allan Houston Legacy Foundation, for their efforts in enriching the lives of children and strengthening families. Previous honorees include: Chris Hansen, Steven Golub, , Andrea Jung, Marlo Thomas, and First Lady Barbara Bush to name a few. Their concern and efforts in promoting programs that safeguard and improve the lives of children are an inspiration to us all. We are also pleased that Deborah Norville has agreed to serve as our emcee again this year, and Lynda Carter has generously donated her time to perform at our gala