The annual To the Rescue! gala supporting the work of the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International, which took place on Nov. 3, 2023, at Cipriani 42nd Street, raised $2.2 million to benefit the organizations’ work to protect animals.
Actress, author, producer and rabbit lover Amy Sedaris and actor and activist Justin Theroux, along with Theroux’s beloved rescue dog Kuma, served as the evening’s hosts. Celebrities, influencers and animal lovers including actress and comedian Bridget Everett; actress and writer Lauren Graham; Peloton instructor, Under Armour athlete and author Emma Lovewell; Peloton instructor and global Puma athlete, Olivia Amato; Emmy Award-winning television producer for Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock Marci Klein; actress Tricia Helfer and more gathered to support and celebrate the bond between people and animals.
This work includes making veterinary care, pet food and essential supplies such as leashes and collars more affordable, available and accessible for everyone—no matter their economic or geographic situation. The organizations also work to reduce populations of free-roaming cats and dogs, to rescue animals from cruelty, neglect and disasters, and to prevent cruelty.
“Tonight, animal advocates came together to raise $2.2 million dollars to help make veterinary care and essential pet supplies more affordable and accessible to everyone as well as reducing pet homelessness. Co-hosting with Amy and Kuma was such a memorable experience, and I am proud that the work we did tonight will help people and their pets,” said Theroux.
“The bond between an animal and their person is so sacred. I know that I would do anything for my rabbit, Tina, and I know that so many others feel the same way about their pets. Nobody should have to give up their companion due to lack of resources and I am thrilled that the money raised tonight through generous donations will go towards keeping pets and their families together,” said Sedaris.
Online pet food and product retailer Chewy was honored with the Corporate Consciousness Award for their work to provide much-needed resources directly into the hands of millions of pet parents. Actor and advocate Daniel Henney presented Homeless World with the Humane Impact Award for their efforts to help displaced animals in Ukraine.
"I couldn't be more thrilled to have been a part of this year's To the Rescue! gala,” said Henney. “Advocating for the well-being of animals has always been a passion of mine and I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of providing a home for a rescue pet. I’m proud to join Humane Society International and the Humane Society of the United States and work towards a world where every animal gets the love and care they deserve."
“The energy in the room tonight really showed the power of the collective in our quest to protect animals in the U.S. and around the world,” said Kitty Block, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States and CEO of Humane Society International. “From our amazing hosts to our incredible sponsors and supporters, thank you to everyone who made this evening possible. The funds we raised tonight are critical in our continued fight to protect all animals.”
The signature gala benefitted from the generous support of top sponsor, Moroccanoil, as well as from Demandbright, Liberty International Underwriters, Stray Dog Capital, TJX Companies, Friends of Miami Animals, CSAA Insurance, Debra and Marc Shore, MissionWired, Royal Canin, Humble Brands, Data Axle, Doggy Do Good, Engaging Networks, Monticello Associates, Printcinch, ROI, Veg.vet and Moore Response Management Group.
Georgina Bloomberg, Tessa Benson Tooley, Nathan Turner and Suzy Welch served as gala chairs. The leadership committee includes Susan Atherton, Wendy and Howard Berk, Yolanda Berkowitz, Jacqueline Dow, Leslie Durso, Wayne S. Flick, Cathy Kangas, Jennifer Laue, Terry Rakolta and Courtney Stroum Meagher.
Guests were served a gourmet plant-based meal crafted by Chef Leslie Durso and regaled with a performance by composer Chloe Flower.