The New York Young Leaders gathered on Thursday, July 16th to celebrate the summer, along with their love for Ireland, at Inside Park at St. Bart’s on Park Avenue.
Located on the terrace at historic St. Bartholomew’s Church, the Summer in the City Celebration welcomed over 140 young friends of Ireland for food and drink beneath the stars (and maybe a glimpse of President Obama, at work in the neighboring Waldorf Astoria!) The evening included a live auction for a luxury trip to Ireland, complete with a night in an Irish castle (generously donated by Tourism Ireland), as well as raffles for great summer-themed prizes. Winners included Young Leaders Caitlin Duffy, Paul McFarland and Kathryn Vreeland. Adding even more excitement to the evening was special guest boxer John Duddy, former IBA World and WBC Continental Americas title-holder, who chose the winning raffle tickets.
In attendance were AIF Chairman Loretta Brennan Glucksman and Young Leaders Patron Bob McCann, who spoke of the Young Leaders’ commitment to philanthropy in these challenging times and the strength of Irish America, over 40 million strong.
Acknowledging the momentous completion of their $1 million fundraising target a year early, Bob thanked the Young Leaders for their work with PeacePlayers International and Sesame Street Northern Ireland, and congratulated them on yet another successful celebration.
Special thanks to sponsors Dillon Eustace, Invest Northern Ireland, Mekhong and Tourism Ireland, whose generosity helped make this the most successful Summer in the City Celebration yet. Many thanks to all the supporters and attendees for their great spirits, kind support and ability to bring the best energy to every party!
