The Plaza Hotel have hosted everyone from debutantes, dignitaries, and Hollywood royalty. Last week, the legendary venue played host to the City of Hope Charity luncheon, raising $400,000 for cancer research. Founded in 1913, City of Hope has grown into one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S.
The Hosts with the Most
At the helm of this event were sisters Lisa Fuld and Kathy Kaye, backed by an established board. They curated an afternoon for 200 guests balanced inspiration with exclusive auction items, all going to raise money for cancer research. Lisa Friedman Clark, a serial entrepreneur, and Jennifer Santiago, CEO of ArtRepublic Global, took the stage to accept the Spirit of Life® Award. Both cancer survivors inspired guests with their stories, with a fierce call to action on early detection, and offering praise to the physicians of City of Hope. Past recipients of the The Spirit of Life® Award include Jane Fonda, Dr. Jill Biden, Brooke Shields, Katie Couric, Kelly Ripa, Robin Roberts, and Fran Drescher, among others.
The Swag Bag
This year’s silent raffle and auction—overseen by NYC auctioneer Lisa Rezak—offered a bucket list of luxuries. The auction highlights:
- Legends on the Links: A round of golf with Paul O’Neill, the five-time World Series champion, former Yankee.
- The Impossible Reservation: Dinner for two at Rao’s (arguably New York’s most exclusive table).
- Coastal Cruising: A month-long lease on a brand new Cadillac luxury vehicle.
- The Manhattan Smile: A complete set of veneers from a high-profile cosmetic dentist.
- The Ultimate Refresh: A full surgical facelift from a top NYC plastic surgeon.
