Shatterproof, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the devastation addiction causes families, hosted their second annual benefit at Richards on Tuesday night.
Over 250 supporters came out to show their support of Shatterproof. The event raised over $622,000 with more funds coming in.
Shatterproof was founded by Easton resident Gary Mendell to spare others the tragedy his family suffered with the loss of his son Brian to addiction in 2011.
Mr. Mendell is an experienced businessman and CEO who founded HEI Hotels & Resorts (Norwalk) and is the former president of Starwood Lodging Trust.
Shatterproof is committed to ending the stigma associated with the disease of addiction and fosters a community of support for families. They also advocate for changes in federal and state policy and support the development and implementation of evidence-based solutions for the prevention, treatment, and recovery of substance use disorders. The funds raised will help Shatterproof continue to train ambassadors, educate and empower families, effect state and federal policy change, and shatter the unjust stigma of addiction.
Mr. Larry Leeds, Chairman of Buckingham Capital, received the 2018 Brian Mendell Award, given in honor of Shatterproof founder and CEO Gary Mendell’s son who passed away in 2011 after a long struggle with addiction.
Mr. Leeds lost his son Cary to addiction and, in 2013, opened the Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning in the Bronx where youth ages 5-18 receive free year-round tennis instruction and educational programs.
Dave Price of WNBC served as the emcee for the evening. Co-chairs were Joanie and Maurice Reznik, Megan Flanigan and Rick Swift. The auction chairs were Doris Arieven and Mary Hoffman. The production chair was Nancy Alchek. The setting was perfect as guests enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres prepared by On The Marc. The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood provided the beverages. Moffly Media was the official media sponsor. The event featured cocktails, appetizers, a raffle and live auction.
Join the next Shatterproof event on October 14 for the 2nd annual Rise Up Against Addiction 5k Walk/Run in NYC.
