Celebrating Gouverneur's 124th Anniversary at this year's annual Gala, held on Thursday, September 10, 2009, was a resounding success. Funds raised will go towards Gouverneur's Modernization project. Despite the tough economy, contributions are still rolling in and we expect that this year's Gala will be as successful as last year's.

"We are enormously grateful for the support we've received from our community, our partners, our staff, and our extended HHC family," said Mendel Hagler, Executive Director. "This generosity reflects a whole-hearted commitment to Gouverneur and the vital services we provide to the community."

The festive evening kicked off with an open bar happy hour where colleagues and guests had the opportunity to mingle before the delicious 10-course meal was served. A belly dancer shimmied into the evening with a dazzling solo performance that entranced the crowd. Afterwards, guests were treated to a sampling of Chinese culture during the night's festivities with kung fu, singing and dancing performances.

This year, we honored two distinguished New Yorkers-Thomas DiNapoli, New York State Comptroller, and Peter Koo, City Council candidate and the influential Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, all for their vital impact, service, and commitment to the Chinese community on the Lower East Side.

"Each of these honorees represents Gouverneur's core values of service to the community and an unwavering commitment to excellence," Mendel said. "We are honored to pay tribute to their work, which has improved the lives of New Yorkers across the five boroughs."

We're already gearing up to celebrate a very special milestone next year-Gouverneur's 125th Anniversary. If you have any ideas and would like to participate in the planning of this tremendous achievement, please contact Maritza Cales at maritza.cales@nychhc.org.

Many thanks to the Fundraising Gala team and to the volunteers whose hard work makes the Gala a success every year.