The Alzheimer’s Association made its mark for the 40th anniversary of its Imagine Benefit. Founder Princess Yasmin Aga Khan created the foundation in honor of her mother, Hollywood legend Rita Hayworth, to end Alzheimer’s and other dementias through research, quality care, and support. This year’s event, held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York, raised over $1.2 million. Since its establishment in 1984, the yearly events have contributed nearly $90 million.
Emmy-award-winning actor, singer, producer, and television personality Wayne Brady kicked off the celebration. The multi-talented host expressed his gratitude toward the event, stating, “I am here in honor of my grandmother, who raised me. To me, she’s always been ‘Mom.’ The impressive work being done by the Alzheimer’s Association gives me hope that one day, no one will have to go through what my family and so many of our families have gone through.”
In addition, there were many moving performances throughout the event. Setting the tone for the evening, singer-songwriter Chris Mann performed “My Funny Valentine” and his Alzheimer’s-inspired song “Remember Me.” Grammy and Tony-Award-winning artist Leslie Odom Jr. followed, enchanting the audience with “A Change Is Gonna Come” and “The Room Where It Happens.” Further entertainment was provided by the iconic Cafe Wha? UNLIMTD Band, keeping the celebratory energy alive.
This year’s event honored flutist and Alzheimer’s advocate Eugenia Zukerman and her husband, Richard (Dick) Novik, for their commitment to Alzheimer’s awareness and research. Zukerman, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s seven years ago, and her dedicated partner, Novik, were recognized for their unshakeable contributions to the cause. Then, Eugenia joined the stage alongside flutist Alex Sopp to play the piece “Syrinx” by Claude Debussy.
Additionally, the evening welcomed a long list of attendees from fashion, media, and society. These guests included David Hyde Pierce, Brian Hargrove, Ubah Hassan, Joseph Altuzarra, Jason Wu, Peter Som, and Huma Abedin. As well as Kara Ross, David Monn, Amara Walker, Rene Marsh, Josie Natori, Didi and Oscar Schafer, and more.
The Imagine Benefit flourished thanks to the members of a truly remarkable team. This includes event chairs Joseph Boitano, Brooke, and Oliver Kennan. It also includes vice chairs Karim Barrada, Jaqui Lividini, Sarah Tam Marin, Alexis Bryan Morgan, Kathleen Ruiz, and Suzanne Silverstein. Randy and Paula Harris, along with Ashley and Marc Koch, play pivotal roles as vice chairs of the Next Generation.
Additional and equally important members included Ann Dexter-Jones, Diandra Douglas, Chele Chiavacci Farley, Emily and Jon Gelb, Cheri Kaufman, Naeem Khan, Karyn Kornfeld, and Steven Kobre. Also included were Robin and Roger Meltzer, Sharon Bush and Bob Murray, Peter Thomas Roth, Michelle Rubel, Katherine Schultz, Nicole Sexton, Martha Webster, and Jennifer and Lonnie Wollin.
Overall, the Alzheimer’s Association Imagine Benefit was more than a success! Supporting programs and services in communities worldwide, the Alzheimer’s Association inspires and gives hope to many individuals. To donate to the Imagine Benefit, visit alzimagine24.givesmart.com and alz.org for more information.
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
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