On a recent evening in Manhattan, philanthropist, author, and television host Jean Shafiroff opened her home to a distinguished group of guests for a cause close to her heart: wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. The reception honored the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center of the Hamptons and marked the official start of the nonprofit’s summer campaign leading up to its 25th Annual Get Wild! Gala, set for Friday, August 1, 2025, at the Southampton Arts Center.
The gathering brought together a sophisticated mix of conservation-minded guests, including public officials, fashion designers, and cultural figures, all united in their support for the Rescue Center’s vital work. In a warm and elegant atmosphere—complete with live piano music, passed hors d’oeuvres, and thoughtful conversation—guests had the opportunity to learn about the center’s mission and the profound impact it continues to make on Eastern Long Island’s ecosystem.
The evening’s hosts, Jean Shafiroff and Kathleen Mulcahy, CEO of the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center, were formally recognized with citations from New York State Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright. The honor underscored their shared dedication to animal welfare and public education, as well as their leadership in preserving the region’s rich biodiversity.
“Our work with wildlife is vitally important to the preservation of our ecosystem. It’s a joy to support an organization that embodies compassion, science, and long-term stewardship.”Jean Shafiroff, Hostess of Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center’s 25th Anniversary Gala
She added that she hoped many attendees would join her in Southampton for Get Wild! to further support the Rescue Center’s mission.
“With Jean’s support, we’ve been able to introduce new audiences to our work. Our goal is not only to rescue but to return—restoring balance in a world where wildlife is increasingly threatened.”Kathleen Mulcahy, CEO of the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center
Among the evening’s attendees were a range of recognizable names and civic contributors, including Missy Hargraves, Sylvia Hemmingway, Ron Dyce, Malan Breton, Victor dE Souza, Maribel Lieberman, and many others. Their presence reflected the cross-section of interests—fashion, media, public service—that continue to coalesce around the Rescue Center’s cause.
Jean Shafiroff’s deep philanthropic footprint was felt throughout the evening. A longtime advocate for both human and animal rights, she currently serves on the boards of organizations such as the New York Women’s Foundation, Southampton Hospital Foundation, and Global Strays. Her work spans causes as varied as healthcare equity, women’s empowerment, and heritage preservation. Through her book Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give, and her eponymous television show, she remains committed to demystifying the giving process and encouraging others to get involved at any scale.
Located on the eastern end of Long Island, the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center is the region’s only full-service wildlife hospital. Situated on public parkland with proximity to diverse natural habitats—from pine barrens to freshwater wetlands—it provides essential care to wild animals impacted by human development. Each year, the Center handles more than 25,000 calls and treats hundreds of injured animals, with the goal of returning them to their natural environments.
The nonprofit is supported almost entirely through private donations and offers a robust schedule of educational programs for students of all ages. Its 25th Get Wild! Gala this August will serve as both a fundraiser and a celebration of the center’s enduring legacy.