Celebrating 20 Years of the Golden Heart Awards

The celebration opened with welcoming remarks from Neil Patrick Harris and GLWD Culinary Council member David Burtka, followed by the premiere of the new GLWD agency video, A New Ambassador, starring Jane Krakowski, Ariana DeBose, and Michael Kors. Leading with comedy and heart, the video highlights the power of volunteerism that makes it possible for us to nourish New York.

The evening’s first honor recognized Andrew Scott, recipient of the Golden Heart Award for Outstanding Humanitarianism & Cultural Impact. Andrew was introduced by actor and writer Stephen Beresford, who wrote Andrew’s latest film set during the 1980s AIDS pandemic, Elsinore. Celebrated for his artistry and commitment to using storytelling to inspire empathy and understanding, Andrew was honored for the positive impact he continues to make both on and off screen.

Andrew shared:

“A meal from God’s Love We Deliver is about the preservation of life, of course. But it’s also about the joy of life. It’s someone knocking on the door to say: you haven’t been forgotten. You’re still one of us. Human connection is what gives us purpose, joy, and courage.”

Following the video, GLWD President & CEO Terrence Meck reflected on Barbara’s story and the personal connections made possible through every meal prepared and delivered.

Terrence shared:

“Somewhere in this great city, perhaps only a few blocks from here, someone else is receiving news that will change their life forever. An unexpected diagnosis. A future, suddenly filled with uncertainty… One day very soon, thanks to the generosity in this cathedral tonight, there will be a knock at their door. And standing on the other side will be someone like Dite. Holding a nourishing meal. A warm smile. And a reminder that they are not alone.”

With Barbara and Dite’s story and our mission in their hearts, guests enthusiastically raised their paddles during our auction led by The Fundraising Guy Harry Santa-Olalla before gathering for dinner.

After dinner, Vogue Editor-in-Chief Chloe Malle introduced Julia Louis-Dreyfus, celebrating a groundbreaking career that includes six Emmy Awards, the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, and her recent Broadway debut in Other Desert Cities.

Chloe also reflected on Julia’s advocacy following her breast cancer diagnosis, noting how she openly shared her experience and used her platform to expand conversations about healthcare access and support for those facing serious illness.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus received the Golden Heart Award for Outstanding Artistry & Advocacy.

Julia shared:

“I am so happy to support God’s Love We Deliver and I’ll tell you why. The work they do is critical. It’s urgent. And, I love this organization.”

Event Co-Chair and GLWD Board member Michael Kors then presented the Michael Kors Award for Inspiring Philanthropy to Misty Copeland.

In heartfelt remarks, Misty reflected on growing up in a childhood of uncertainty and remembering the people who helped her feel safe, cared for, and seen.

She then shared:

“There’s something universal about the need to feel that we matter. That we haven’t been forgotten. That someone cares enough to do something… [and] it’s not simply the meals [GLWD] delivers, as extraordinary as that work is, but what those meals represent to the people receiving them. Someone is thinking about you. Someone cares.”

Lea Michele returned for her second Golden Heart Awards and introduced Broadway star Jasmine Amy Rogers. Rogers, joined by The Cathedral Choir, brought the crowd to their feet with a soaring rendition of The Sound of Music’s “Climb Every Mountain.”

Attendees included Martha Stewart, Nicky Hilton, Olivia Munn, Judith Light, Neil Patrick Harris, David Burtka, Lea Michele, Huma Abedin, Jasmine Amy Rogers, Peppermint, Brad Hall, Carlos Nazario, and Olu Evans.

The evening raised nearly $4 million, funding nearly 400,000 medically tailored meals for our clients, their children, and their caregivers.

The evening was produced and directed by Erich Bergen. Event design by Raiola/Co. Production by Michael J. Mortiz Jr. Catering by Canard, Inc. Florals by Wilder Gardens and Flowers. Crystal awards by Baccarat. Sparkling wine by Bricoleur Vineyards.

Fundraising events like the Golden Heart Awards allow GLWD to continue growing and innovating to provide free, life-saving services to New Yorkers affected by illness.

Photos by Getty Images, Rommel Demano, and Daniel Paik