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Virtual event will spotlight and support URI’s comprehensive domestic violence and homeless services while honoring inspiring partners and clients

New York, October 12, 2021—Urban Resource Institute (URI), the largest provider of domestic violence residential services in the United States and a leading provider of homeless services in New York City, will host its annual fundraising gala virtually on Wednesday, October 20 at 7:00pm EST. Dedicated supporters, friends, staff and special guests will gather for the free event to celebrate milestones of the past year, share stories of hope, and raise awareness and funds for URI’s services for New York City’s most vulnerable populations impacted by domestic violence and homelessness.

“We are honored to celebrate the resiliency of our clients who rise up every day to transform their lives, and to recognize the many supporters and partners who make our work possible,” said Nathaniel Fields, Chief Executive Officer of URI. “We are also thankful that our innovative programs and services continue to provide a lifeline for our clients, even during the pandemic, and proud to serve as a model for providers across the U.S. and globally.”

The hour-long, virtual celebration, which will be easily accessible on the URI website, will highlight the people behind the programs – the dedicated board and staff and, above all, the inspiring clients who will share their stories of rising up. The award-winning comedian, author and semi-finalist on “America’s Got Talent” Jackie Fabulous will host the evening’s program, with special guests John Quiñones, news correspondent and television host, and Joy Taylor, sports radio and television host, domestic violence survivor and URI Ambassador.  Vy Higginsen’s extraordinary Sing Harlem! Choir will deliver rousing performances throughout the event to keep spirits high.

The evening will include the presentation of three awards:

  • PetSmart Charities, a longtime supporter of the pioneering URI People and Animals Living Safely (PALS) program, will receive the Trailblazer Award, accepted by their president, Aimee Gilbreath.

 

  • Two Triumph Awards will be given to former URI clients who demonstrate the resilience to rise up: Deedra Cheatham, from the Domestic Violence Program, and Lindsay Coker, from the Programs for Homeless Families.

 

To reach a broad audience, especially during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the virtual program is free to participants through registration on the Event web page.  Significant fundraising has been achieved by generous sponsors, including Presenting Sponsors A1 Equities and Heights Advisors. URI welcomes additional sponsorship and donations; funds raised will help URI continue providing life-saving prevention, intervention, and emergency services for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence and homelessness.

For more information or to register to attend for free the 2021 URI Celebration: Rise Up! please visit urinyc.org/events/2021uricelebration or contact URI directly at events@urinyc.org.

About Urban Resource Institute

Urban Resource Institute (URI) is a leading non-profit organization that empowers individuals, families, communities, particularly communities of color and other disenfranchised populations, to end cycles of violence, homelessness, poverty, and trauma by increasing safety and resiliency. As the largest provider of domestic violence shelter services in the country, URI’s programs provide care for survivors of domestic violence, homeless families, and other at-risk populations, allowing them to live in safety and recover from trauma in both residential and non-residential settings. With deep community relationships and a flexible, innovative approach to program development and service delivery, URI is uniquely equipped to provide solutions to the challenges affecting New York City’s most vulnerable populations. For more information, please visit www.urinyc.org.

 

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