2007 Gala: Giving Hope, Saving Lives Gala Benefit Dinner

Giving Hope, Saving Lives, took place at the Pierre Hotel in New York City on May 8. More than 330 leaders in government, business, and the health field attended the event to recognize the MHA of NYC's achievements and advances our mission.

The MHA of NYC honored two staunch supporters who take pro-active roles in meeting the mental health needs of New Yorkers: Michael Gardner, Chairman and CEO of Baytree Capital, an investment banking and asset management company he founded 15 years ago; and Hon. G. Oliver Koppell, Chair of the Mental Health, Mental Retardation, Alcoholism, Drug Abuse & Disability Services Committee of the New York City Council.

Giselle Stolper, Executive Director of the MHA of NYC (left), with Honorees Michael Gardner, his wife and MHA of NYC Board member, Lynda, and Hon. G. Oliver Koppell

Kathryn Power, Director of the Center for Mental Health Services of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) shared remarks as a guest speaker. She also presented the MHA of NYC with the Transformation Award in recognition of the organization's work in suicide prevention through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which the MHA of NYC operates in partnership with SAMHSA.

Kathryn Power of SAMHSA, guest speaker at Giving Hope, Saving Lives

Honorary co-chairs of the event were Ric Clark, CEO of Brookfield Properties and a long-time MHA of NYC Board member; and Hon. Ginger Lerner-Wren, who pioneered the nation's first Mental Health Court and serves on the National Advisory Committee of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

The evening's entertainment was provided by legendary Jon Anderson who performed with the Paul Green School of Rock All-Stars. Mr. Anderson was the vocalist and composer for YES, the legendary English rock band he originally formed, known for its timeless hits, "Roundabout," "Your Move," and "Owner of a Lonely Heart." Philadelphia guitarist Paul Green founded the School of Rock to give students, ages 7 to 17, the opportunity to study and perform with established rock bands.

Jon Anderson of YES performs with his All-Stars from the School of Rock

Giving Hope, Saving Lives 2007 raised $400,000 and caps over 40 years of the MHA of NYC's important life-changing and life-saving work.