Psychiatric Foundation Fundraiser A Towering Success

Alittle rain and fog did not stop the American Psychiatric Foundation's event, “A Toast to New York,” from becoming the most successful foundation benefit to date. High above New York City on the 80th floor of the Empire State Building, nearly 300 people gathered to celebrate the foundation's mission to advance public understanding that mental illnesses are real and can be effectively treated.

The event raised nearly $130,000, with the proceeds going to support foundation grants and programs. Participants enjoyed a cocktail reception, live music, and silent auction.

Foundation President Altha Stewart, M.D., presented the first Minority Mental Health Awards to the Project for Psychiatric Outreach to the Homeless Inc. (PPOH), located in New York, and to psychiatrist Carl Bell, M.D., of the Community Mental Health Council and Foundation in Chicago (Psychiatric News, April 2).

“Dr. Bell and PPOH have made significant contributions to mentally ill people in minority communities that are often ignored,” said Stewart. “Their efforts to remove barriers to services are an example to all who care about providing access to the underserved.”

A new foundation initiative also was launched at the New York fundraiser. All-Stars at Work, a program of the National Partnership for Workplace Mental Health, educates and provides resources for employees and employers across the country about the benefits of a mentally healthy workforce and the need to provide access to quality mental health services.

The evening also featured the induction of four members into the Benjamin Rush Circle, the foundation's most prestigious donor club, which is composed of donors who have given $10,000 or more over time to the foundation. New members include Rodrigo Muñoz, M.D., Carolyn Robinowitz, M.D., Mary Scully, and Nicholas Stratas, M.D.

“The event was extremely successful,” Stewart said. “We had record attendance, raised a record amount of money for the foundation and its programs, and we were able to enjoy a New York City landmark with colleagues and friends. This was truly a great night.”

A Toast to New York was supported by Cyberonics, GlaxoSmithKline, Janssen Pharmaceutica, Pfizer Inc., Sanofi-Synthelabo, Forest Laboratories, Otsuka America Pharmaceutical Inc., and Professional Risk Management Services Inc.▪