On Thursday, September 30, 2010 Children of the City held its 2010 Gala at Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers in New York City. Hugh Jackman, the Tony and Emmy Award-winning actor came out to cheer on his friend, Rocco Basile, one of the evening’s two honorees. “New Yorkers are big givers, not just with their money but with their time,” said the Hollywood giant. His sentiment captured the spirit of generosity that pervaded the air at Pier Sixty throughout the night. Another “Giant” in the house was former NY Giants wide receiver David Tyree, a long time supporter of the organization. The Super Bowl hero presented honoree Eileen Holmes with her award. Later, during the live auction, a bidding war ensued over the helmet he donated, signed by Tyree himself and the current Giants team.

WABC’s Lauren Glassberg was the evening’s Master of Ceremonies and led the program with wit and style. Speaking of style, the gorgeous Miss USA 2010 Rima Fakih had men craning their heads to look at her, as she drew the winning raffle ticket. Despite all the glamour and glitter, the true meaning of the evening was never far from everyone’s minds. Speeches by Senator Martin Golden and D.A. Charles J. Hynes inspired and called the crowd to action. Joyce Mattera, the founder of Children of the City, touched hearts as she introduced one of the children, Kace, whom the organization has helped the past few years. For over two decades, Children of the City has served the Brooklyn community, responding to the critical needs of families coping with trauma, abuse delinquency and poverty through various programs. Seeing Kace triumphantly take the stage brought home the importance of Children of the City’s mission and work.

Children of the City, has successfully served Southwest Brooklyn for more than two decades by changing to meet the needs of the community. Since founded in 1981, the organization has been responding to the critical needs of families coping with trauma, abuse and delinquency. The programs from youth mentoring to financial counseling have been design to empower families with the necessary skills to overcome poverty.