November 16th, 2024

The Gala raised funds in honor of the WPA (Women in Prison Association).

The Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller, Commandery of New York (one of the worlds’ oldest orders of chivalry) held its Annual Charity Gala at The Union League Club on Saturday November 16th.  The Gala raised funds in honor of the WPA (Women in Prison Association). To provide scholarships for women with the training and guidance to not only provide for their children and families but to give them an opportunity to build confidence and pride in changing their course in life.

H.E. Grand Dame Ann M. Van Ness, Prior Emeritus of the America’s Priory remarked, “For years, the WPA has worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for women in prison.  It validates the Order’s mission, to support non-profit organizations like the Women’s Prison Association.  I am proud that OSJ Knights and Dames have stepped up to support this extraordinarily worthy cause".

In the past 5 years, the global Order of St. John Knight Hospitaller NY Commandery has raised funds for Americas’ Vet Dogs, Westside Campaign Against Hunger, The NY Oasis – a Haven for Women & Children, Hour Children of NY and Samaritan’s Purse for the Florida Hurricane relief.

The Gala Co – Chairpersons were Chevalier Robert McCrie and Dame Fulvia Madia McCrie with support from Dame Jacqueline Von Rohrscheidt – Hill, Vice Chairman James Joseph Doran and Treasurer Dame Mary Elaine Morris and Dame Michelle Ayres. Sponsors and corporate sponsors included Grand Benefactor - H.E. Grand Dame Ann M. Van Ness and Chevalier William Van Ness. Sovereign Benefactors - Thomas and Carla Mcauley, Grand Patrons - Dame Evelyn Berry, Patricia Cossutta, Puly Rincon, Helen King, Dame Fulvia Madia Mccrie and Chevalier Robert Mccrie, Dame Mary Elaine Morris, And David Morris, Robert and Heidi Roberts. 

 

Photos by David DuPuy and Annie Watt