New York (HedgeCo.net) – Child abuse prevention and awareness non-profit, Hedge Funds Care, said its 12th Annual New York Open Your Heart to the Children Benefit raised over $2 million this year at a New York gala last week.
“Braving a snow storm, more than 1,100 industry leaders joined in support of the vital work of Hedge Funds Care. This ongoing generosity will truly empower New York area programs focused on producing a lasting difference in the lives of our children,” stated John M. Budzyna, President and Chairman of Hedge Funds Care.
The Co-chairs for the event were Dean C. Backer, Managing Director, Goldman Sachs and Richard H. Baker, President, Managed Funds Association. CNBC anchor and reporter Trish Regan served as master of ceremonies. The event featured a gala cocktail reception and the presentation of the Hedge Funds Care Award for Caring to Liya Kebede, for her efforts to improve health conditions for women and children around the world, and Michael E. Novogratz, President of Fortress Investment Group, for his corporate and philanthropic leadership. Lee Daniels, Director of the film, Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire, received the Hedge Funds Care Founder’s Award.
Since the first benefit in 1998, Hedge Funds Care has awarded over 600 grants totaling $21 million in the United States and abroad. In 2009. the New York benefit raised $1.3 million, which supported 30 organizations that address child abuse in the tri-state area. Due to the economic downturn, many more organizations are in need of funding for their vital services. The success of the New York Benefit means that Hedge Funds Care is in a position to provide increased support in 2010.
Hedge Funds Care is an international charity whose sole mission is preventing and treating child abuse. This mission is accomplished by raising money and awarding grants in 11 major cities in the United States, Canada, the Cayman Islands, and the United Kingdom. Hedge Funds Care awards grants to organizations that prevent child abuse through education, research, and advocacy, or that treat abused children.
