Had New Rochelle Revolutionary War patriot Thomas Paine, author of “Common Sense,” been alive today, he would indeed say, “These are the times that try men’s souls.” If the new coronavirus has taught us anything, it’s that there is a razor’s edge between culture and chaos, civilization and unbridled nature. But we can’t give up on civilization, which is man’s Promethean response to nature. Many organizations, trying to retain our social fabric both in the profit and nonprofit worlds, need our aid.
We’ve been writing regularly in our daily posts about Feeding Westchester, which continues to provide for the food insecure at different pickup spots. feedingwestchester.org
Meanwhile, Westchester Jewish Community Services, which does so much for the county’s vulnerable populations, is not giving up on the start of the gala season. WJCS is hosting its “Virtual but Vital 2020 Gala” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 31 atWJCS.com. When you join in, you’ll meet WJCS clients; gala honorees Ellen Gelboim and Bob Mensch, whose contributions epitomize the concept of Tikkun Olam – repairing the world; and have the opportunity to donate to specific WJCS programs that most resonate with you in the Give for Good Auction.
Supporters Neil and Wendy Sandler have generously offered a dollar for dollar match for every $5,000 raised in the Give for Good Auction, up to $25,000. Wjcs.com.
For decades, the Westchester Philharmonic has been making beautiful music in the county. Now the orchestra needs a helping hand to continue. Music is one of the things that’s keeping everyone going together at this time. (See Yo-Yo Ma’s “Songs of Comfort.”) Let’s keep it going. Westchesterphil.org.
Last but not least, restaurateur and longtime WAG fave Jean-Georges Vongerichten has launched a Go Fund Me site to help support the more than 1,000 employees at The Inn at Pound Ridge by Jean-Georges and his New York City restaurants who are now out of work because of the virus-causing closures. Here’s the link.
Does your organization need a boost? We at WAG want to hear from you. And as always, stay safe.
– Georgette Gouveia
