Our First-Ever Virtual Gala Was a Night to Remember

2020 has brought many surprises and changes, but one thing has remained constant: Friends of CenterLight’s commitment to serving elderly New Yorkers in need. Our virtual gala was broadcast live on October 28th, 2020, and we were delighted to share it with the hundreds of supporters who tuned in. Now, we’re opening it up for the world to see. Re-watch your favorite moments or experience the magic for the first time—we’re just happy that you’re here with us.

Soledad O’Brien welcomes you to our 2020 gala

CenterLight staff On Rising to the challenge for 100 years

Honoring the CenterLight Facilities Team

CenterLight’s Facilities Team truly encapsulated the spirit of this year’s gala: rising to the challenge. COVID-19 changed the world as we know it, and to keep our participants safe, we closed the Day Health Centers to in early March. When staff learned that some participants were food insecure, the Friends of CenterLight and Facilities Team worked together to create a food pantry at our Wallerstein center. More than half a year into the pandemic, they still deliver weekly groceries to participants to ensure their wellbeing.

a message from Rolanda Watts

You have really set the example and raised the bar over the past 100 years and it’s a perfect example being set for a devastating time for many people.
— Rolanda Watts

Keynote Address from David B. Agus, MD

David B. Agus, MD has been at the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic and a voice of reason for people searching for information. Following his keynote address, our CEO David Rock leads a Q & A that covers some of the topics we’ve all had our minds on this year.

our commitment to Alzheimer’s Disease care

A fun conversation with Tom Mita and Virgilio Nieves

Our Success Stems from Your Support

Soledad O’Brien wraps up our gala with an important message: that all the work we do is made possible by our generous sponsors. Your continued support makes a difference in the lives of our participants. Drew Bordeaux Music ends the night with “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz and “Times Like These” by the Foo Fighters.

Messages from top sponsors

2020 journal Ads