(Bronx, N.Y.)—On May 17, Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) celebrated 50 years of dedicated service to the Bronx community by hosting the Inspiring Generations and Transforming Lives fundraiser.
“I am humbled to be recognized as an honoree by KHCC and District 11 in the Bronx at the KHCC 50th Anniversary Gala - what a memorable evening.” said Perkins&Will Principal Jennifer Graham
Held at Tribeca Rooftop in Manhattan, the event featured music, entertainment, a silent auction, and a special performance by renowned hip-hop icon Darryl McDaniels from RUN DMC. The highlight of the evening was a heartwarming performance by youth with developmental needs. The live auction included items such as a Balloon Dog by Jeff Koons.
Throughout the evening, KHCC honored individuals who have demonstrated visionary leadership and dedicated service to KHCC and the Bronx community. Among the honorees were:
Jennifer Graham is the principal at Perkins&Will, with a prolific 30-year career marked by groundbreaking projects and an innovative approach to leadership that integrates mentorship and fosters a supportive work environment. Passionate about Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI), social purpose, and sustainability, Jennifer leverages these principles in her client engagements and community initiatives. She is a driving force behind LMNOP NYC, Inc. and actively contributes to the boards of IIDA NY and AIA NY.
Margaret Della served as the Executive Director of the Kingsbridge Heights Community Center, where she spearheaded strategic initiatives that significantly enhanced the organization's structure and outreach. Her roles have spanned the U.S. Senate to academia, and she has held board positions at organizations like Habitat Newark and Democracy Prep. Her commitment to leadership development and community engagement during her tenure at KHCC from 2014 to 2023 exemplifies her role as a Community Champion.
City Council Member Eric Dinowitz represents the Northwest Bronx with a profound dedication to public service and community welfare. A former special education teacher and United Federation of Teachers Chapter Leader, Eric has always prioritized education and community engagement. His efforts extend to improving senior accessibility, transit, and voter participation. His service on the Bronx Community Board 8 and his ongoing role in local governance highlight his commitment as a Community Champion
Senator Robert Jackson has been a formidable advocate for New Yorkers, championing significant legislative reforms and community initiatives. His tenure as School Board President was marked by the landmark Campaign for Fiscal Equity lawsuit, securing substantial funding for NYC public schools. In the State Senate, he continues to advocate for public education, workers' rights, and climate justice.
“It is going on 10 years since I was introduced to the KHCC by Michel Smalley, JP Morgan Chase banker, and my appreciation/inspiration for the incredible work the organization does each year. (or a reflection of your time working with the org here). From my first involvement with KHCC, I was amazed at the outreach, programming, and the ease at which you receive and organize volunteers. The KHCC spirit is inspiring – making it easy to be an ambassador of KHCC’s impactful and purposeful mission! Thank you for welcoming me, my professional and industry colleagues, friends, and family into your home to engage with the Kingsbridge Heights community.” said Graham
In addition to presenting awards, KHCC received several honors, including proclamations from Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, New York City Council Member Eric Dinowitz, and New York Senator Robert Jackson. KHCC was also recognized with a proclamation declaring May 17 as Kingsbridge Heights Community Center Day by Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson.
My many thanks to Perkins&Will, clients, project teammates, International Interior Design Association NY, The Parish of Calvary St. George's, my friends and family who came to celebrate and support KHCC and me on Friday May 17.Congratulations on 50 years of empowerment to the Bronx community!” said Graham
ABOUT KINGSBRIDGE HEIGHTS COMMUNITY CENTER
KHCC provides resources to empower Bronx residents from cradle to career to advance education and well-being for a vibrant community. We achieve this in an environment that fosters academic milestones, literacy, mental health support, nutrition, technology, and the arts. To learn more about KHCC, visit our website: www.khcc-nyc.org.
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