United Hatzalah holds NYC gala
More than 1,300 supporters and friends of United Hatzalah from the tristate Jewish community attended the organization’s annual New York gala at Cipriani in Lower Manhattan.
The gathering brought together major American Jewish philanthropists, business leaders, cultural figures, political voices, and community influencers, reflecting the depth of support United Hatzalah has built across the American Jewish landscape.
Over the years, United Hatzalah’s New York gala has become more than a fundraising event. Its significance is measured not only by the funds it raises to support fast, free, and professional emergency medical care in Israel, but also by the caliber of those who choose to stand publicly behind the organization’s mission.
Ambassador Ron Dermer was presented with the Hero of Israel award, recognizing his efforts to bring all the Israeli hostages home from Hamas captivity. Alex Witkoff, the son of U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, introduced Mr. Dermer for a conversation with American investor and sports team owner David Blitzer. Comedian Modi Rosenfeld, who received the Beacon of Joy award, brought humor and warmth to an evening rooted in lifesaving purpose, paying tribute to the volunteers whose work defines United Hatzalah on the ground every day. Bar Kupershtein attended as a special guest and told his story of being held hostage in Gaza for 738 days.
Young Leadership co-chairs Brandon and Kyle Lutnick, children of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, helped energize a new generation of supporters, reinforcing the gala’s role as both a marquee communal event and a platform for sustained engagement.
“Our volunteers are known for doing extraordinary things, but what we saw in New York was no less extraordinary,” Eli Beer, United Hatzalah’s founder and president, said. “Leaders from every sector came together not only because they believe in what we do, but because they understand what it represents. Saving lives transcends borders, politics and differences. It is one of the few missions that can bring people together through a shared sense of responsibility.” For more information, go to UHNYGala.com