Henry Buhl and ACE Programs Will Unite Philanthropy, Music, and Glamour at the Mandarin Oriental
New York, NY — October 9, 2025.
New York City’s skyline will soon glitter a little brighter as the Association of Community Employment Programs for the Homeless (ACE), founded by the visionary philanthropist Henry Buhl, will host its highly anticipated Dream Gala 2025 at the iconic Mandarin Oriental Hotel. The black-tie affair will bring together luminaries from the worlds of business, art, and entertainment for an unforgettable evening dedicated to empowerment, compassion, and the transformative power of opportunity.
A Night of Purpose and Glamour
Guests will gather for a cocktail reception followed by an elegant dinner and program hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Cynthia McFadden. The evening will celebrate those who have made extraordinary contributions to community advancement and social change. This year’s distinguished honorees — Henry Hay and Andrew Torrey — will be recognized for their leadership and enduring commitment to creating opportunities for vulnerable communities.
But the true heartbeat of the night will come from the stage when Tony Award-winning Broadway legend Jennifer Holliday, best known as the original “Dream Girl”, will grace the gala with a soul-stirring performance. Her powerful voice and emotional depth will embody ACE’s mission — inspiring resilience, dignity, and hope in the face of adversity.
An Elegant Evening Curated to Perfection
Throughout the night, guests will enjoy live music by the renowned Alex Donner Orchestra, setting the perfect tone for an evening of joy and reflection. A spirited auction, led by celebrated auctioneer Gabriel Butu, will invite attendees to bid on exquisite experiences and items — all in support of ACE’s life-changing programs.
The events media and PR will be orchestrated with flawless style and sophistication by Lawlor Media Group, under the expert direction of Norah Lawlor, whose public relations mastery continues to define New York’s most prestigious philanthropic gatherings. Her team’s impeccable curation ensures that each ACE Dream Gala will be not only a celebration of compassion but also a cultural highlight of the season the world notices.
Transforming Lives, Building Futures
Since its founding in 1992, ACE has been a beacon of hope for New Yorkers rebuilding their lives. Through job readiness training, work experience, and long-term support services, ACE has empowered thousands of individuals affected by homelessness, incarceration, and addiction to reclaim stability and independence.
Funds raised during the Dream Gala will directly support these vital initiatives — creating a path toward employment, dignity, and lasting change.
A Legacy of Hope Continues
As the evening unfolds under the stars of Manhattan, guests will not only witness a night of glamour but participate in a legacy of transformation. Each smile, each song, and each generous contribution will echo ACE’s guiding principle: “Everyone deserves a second chance to dream.”
Event Details & Contact
Event: ACE Dream Gala 2025
Date: Thursday, October 9, 2025
Location: The Mandarin Oriental Hotel, New York City
Honorees: Henry Hay and Andrew Torrey
Host: Cynthia McFadden
Headliner: Jennifer Holliday
Music: Alex Donner Orchestra
Auctioneer: Gabriel Butu
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or table purchases, please visit www.acenewyork.org.
About ACE Programs for the Homeless
The Association of Community Employment Programs (ACE) works alongside New Yorkers with histories of homelessness, incarceration, and addiction to provide job training, work experience, and a lifelong support network. These programs empower participants to achieve their goals, gain economic independence, and build stronger, more resilient communities.
Website: www.acenewyork.org
Instagram: @aceprogramsny
Facebook: aceprogramsny
X/Twitter: @aceprogramsny
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