2 minute read
Letter From Leadership
LETTER FROM LEADERSHIP
Dear Friends,
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WELCOME TO THE 28 TH ANNUAL GRIDIRON GALA! For nearly 45 years, United Way and the National Football League have huddled to improve the lives of youth across the country. Here, in our community the New York Jets, New York Giants, and United Way of New York City, along with all of you, gather at the Gridiron Gala to celebrate the impact of this partnership and the incredible work we accomplish together.
This year has been a year like none other. When last year’s Gala was affected by COVID-19, none of us imagined that 365 days later we would still be adapting to this global health crisis and the social problems it inflamed. Yet through the devastating pandemic, the heightened focus on racial injustice, and unprecedented economic and educational challenges, our community has banded together— stronger than ever.
Our COVID-19 Community Fund raised an incredible $17 million and impacted the lives of millions of New Yorkers with emergency food, eviction prevention support, books and educational supplies and resources, funding to support vital small businesses, and access to healthcare, testing, and vaccinations. The NFL, corporate partners, foundations, and individual donors—many who are in our audience tonight—were instrumental in supporting relief and recovery efforts. In fact, the New York Jets made the first corporate gift to our fund, with the New York Giants just behind them through the NFL Draft-a-Thon.
We are incredibly proud to honor these teams as this year’s Hometown Heroes along with our Community Quarterbacks from 2021 and 2020. Thank you to our sponsors, and Gridiron Gala Committee for your loyalty and dedication—none of this would be possible without you. And of course, a tremendous thank you to each of you. It is your continued generosity and support that have raised more than $32 million at the Gridiron since 1994.
Tonight, we celebrate and reflect on the accomplishments we have achieved in partnership with the New York Jets, New York Giants, and all of you and we fuel our passion to continue our drive down the field.
Thank you and enjoy the evening,
DONALD F. DONAHUE
Board Co-Chair
MICHAEL J. SCHMIDTBERGER
Board Co-Chair
SHEENA WRIGHT
President & CEO
