This year, we doubled the fun and the impact with not one, but two incredible comedy show fundraising events. Together, Humor for HOPE and the first-ever Chuckle for HOPE raised over $205,000 in support of our job training and career services. We are so grateful to everyone who joined us, laughed with us, and made both evenings truly unforgettable.
Humor for HOPE
The evening kicked off with powerful remarks from Councilmember Dr. Yusef Salaam, whose commitment to creating opportunities for New Yorkers who deserve a second chance continues to inspire us. We are deeply grateful for his championship of our work.
Our graduate speaker, Julio S., moved the room with his story of personal and professional transformation. Julio shared how The HOPE Program taught him the power of discipline, punctuality, and integrity—lessons that have shaped both his career and his life.
This year, our host for the evening was Ophira Eisenberg. The night brought plenty of laughs courtesy of comedians Erin Jackson, Erin Macguire, Julio Diaz, and Mike Finoia.
A heartfelt thank you to our Humor for HOPE sponsors: Macquarie Group, LGT Capital Partners, Julienne Silverman & Stefanie Spina, Akin, Irene Ritter Foundation, Prosek Partners, Jennifer Mitchell & David Szuchman, and J.P. Morgan Asset Management.
Swipe to see photos from our fantastic evening! You can find more photos from Humor for HOPE here.
Chuckle for HOPE
Due to popular demand, we welcomed a brand-new event to our lineup this year! Chuckle for HOPE spotlighted up-and-coming comedians and brought a fresh, joyful energy to our community. We had an amazing time celebrating laughter and new beginnings together.
Our graduate speaker, Zarravon Q., shared a powerful story about how HOPE helped turn his life around when he needed it most, giving him the drive, problem-solving skills, and hands-on training to build a career in the clean energy industry.
Kevin Dombrowski hosted the evening, with a stellar lineup featuring James Mwara, Ayanna Dookie, Liza Treyger, and Philipp Kostelecky.
A heartfelt thank you to our Chuckle for HOPE sponsors: Tracey Capers, Julia Schonfeld, Karen Edelman, Lauren Samuel, Josette & Kevin Thompson, and Jennifer Mitchell & David Szuchman.
Both events were made possible by the generosity of our sponsors, attendees, and event committee. Your support empowers New Yorkers to achieve economic mobility for themselves and their families, and that is something worth celebrating. Swipe to see photos from our amazing evening! You can find more photos from Chuckle for HOPE here.
