NEW YORK CITY— Tony and Emmy-winning actor Neil Patrick Harris hosted Humane World for Animals’ annual To the Rescue! gala last night in New York City. The event brings together animal advocates, philanthropists, celebrities and supporters to advance the organization’s mission to protect animals and create lasting change.
The event raised over $2 million to support the efforts of Humane World for Animals, formerly called the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International. The evening featured a special performance by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Vanessa Carlton, best known for her global hit “A Thousand Miles,” and an appearance by longtime gala supporter, actress, author, producer and devoted rabbit enthusiast Amy Sedaris.
“What an unforgettable evening! It was a truly magical night hosting Humane World for Animals’ gala, and seeing so many people come together to celebrate the incredible strides being made toward ending animal testing,” said Harris. “The dedication of everyone involved was a beautiful reminder of the impact we can make when we use our voices to advocate. The evening showed just how powerful compassion and collective action can be. Thank you to Humane World for Animals for the opportunity to be part of such an important cause.”
Legendary supermodel Christie Brinkley presented Emulate, Inc. with the Corporate Conscience Award, honoring the company’s leadership for its technology that reduces reliance on animal testing. The company has also helped advance the scientific validation and regulatory acceptance of human-relevant, animal-free methods, supporting a broader transformation in biomedical research.
“To the Rescue! is a powerful reminder of what it means to be part of a worldwide movement for animals. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who has joined us in building a more compassionate future,” said Kitty Block, president and CEO of Humane World for Animals. “The generosity and commitment of our supporters drives the critical work we do to protect animals used in testing and research and all animals from cruelty, creating lasting systemic change around the world.”
Humane World for Animals has played a leading role in advancing alternatives to animal testing through advocacy, legal action, scientific collaboration and public policy. For decades, the organization has pushed for reforms that reduce reliance on animals in research and testing—including efforts that helped to end research on chimpanzees—and remove regulatory barriers to non-animal methods to advance acceptance by federal agencies. Today, that work is driving a broader shift at the Food and Drug Administration, Environmental Protection Agency and National Institutes of Health toward more humane, human-relevant approaches to research and testing.
Georgina Bloomberg, Caren Fleit and Suzy Welch served as gala co-chairs. The gala leadership committee included Yolanda Berkowitz, Liz Dee, Leslie Durso, Adriana Echavarria Eisenhower, Cathy Kangas, Jennifer and Chuck Laue, Courtney Stroum Meagher, Terry Rakolta, Jessica Rivera and Rachel Ruggeri.
Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception and an innovative plant-based dining experience curated by Overthrow Hospitality, the James Beard Award-nominated, Michelin-recognized restaurant group known for its modern plant-based cuisine. Executive
Chefs Amira Gharib and Haley Duren created a menu showcasing the creativity and artistry of plant-based dining.
The gala was supported by sponsors including Stray Dog, Liberty Mutual, Giulia & Romeo, TJX, Get Joy, Four Tails, Moroccanoil, author Lisa Palumbo, Safeguard Global, FlyteVu, MissionWired and Moore.
