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NEW YORK — New York City’s young people face converging crises, while the nonprofits that serve them operate at the limits of their capacity. For over 30 years, Youth INC has worked to change that by proving that strong nonprofits build stronger futures for young people.
On November 12, 2025, Youth INC will spotlight the people and partnerships driving this work at its 31st Annual Celebration Gala at the Ziegfeld Ballroom. This year, the John C. Whitehead Leadership Award will be presented to Stratton Heath, Partner at Oak Hill Capital, and Kathleen McCabe, Partner at PJT Partners, in recognition of their extraordinary leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to expanding opportunities for young people.
Named in memory of philanthropist, civic leader, and founding member of Youth INC’s National Advisory Board, John C. Whitehead, the award honors individuals whose vision and service strengthen communities and advance philanthropy.
“Stratton and Kathleen understand that capacity is the catalyst for change,” said Lauren McCort, Executive Director of Youth INC. “When you strengthen one nonprofit, you multiply the impact for every young person it reaches. Their leadership captures the spirit of this year’s Gala theme, Because of You, underscoring that every breakthrough for young people begins with those who choose to invest in them.”
Youth INC’s network of more than 85 nonprofit partners serves over 300,000 young people annually, one-third of New York City’s public school students. These organizations provide essential academic enrichment, mentorship, college readiness, arts, and sports programs in neighborhoods where such resources are often out of reach.
“Nonprofits that deeply engage youth have the power to change the trajectory of a young person’s life and the communities they call home” said Heath. “Through targeted investment behind these organizations and their tireless leaders, Youth INC strengthens teams, expands reach and drives lasting change.”
Since 1994, Youth INC has raised over $125 million, fueling the growth of more than 200 nonprofits and reaching over one million young people.
“The nonprofit leaders I meet are some of the most resourceful and innovative problem-solvers in the city,” said McCabe. “Because of Youth INC, they have the capacity to adapt, and the confidence to lead boldly for the young people who count on them.”
The Celebration Gala is a cornerstone of Youth INC’s work, spotlighting the collective impact of business, philanthropy, and nonprofits, united in its commitment to the next generation.
This year’s event is made possible by the leadership of the Celebration Gala Event Committee: William Q. Derrough, Moelis & Company; Mark DiMilia, Morgan Stanley; Daniel S. Evans, American Industrial Partners; Wray T. Thorn, Focus Impact Partners; Douglas M. Kaden, SDC Capital Partners; Mark Liggitt, Ares Management; Emmett McCann, Duration Capital Partners; Robert H. McCooey, Jr., Nasdaq; Daniel Pine, tvg hospitality; Ken Prince, Advent International Corporation; Maheshwar Saireddy, Goldman Sachs; Julie Silverman, PJT Partners; and Dana Weinstein, J.P. Morgan.
Youth INC also thanks its top sponsors: Goldman Sachs Gives; Oak Hill Capital Partners; Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP; Ares Management Corporation; Blackstone; J.P. Morgan; King & Spalding; Latham & Watkins LLP; Proskauer; and Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP.
