A Night for Second Chances: NYC Second Chance Rescue Honors Martha Stewart and Dr. Dan Belkin at 5th Annual Rescue Ball

New York’s philanthropic and social set gathered for an evening that shimmered with both elegance and heart at the 5th Annual Rescue Ball hosted by NYC Second Chance Rescue. Held at Pier Sixty along the Hudson River, the gala not only offered waterfront views and a star-studded guest list but served a greater mission: supporting the organization’s critical efforts to save the most vulnerable animals in need.

This year’s honorees — Martha Stewart and Dr. Dan Belkin — were celebrated for their enduring commitment to animal welfare. Stewart, a household name synonymous with lifestyle innovation, was recognized for her lifelong advocacy for animals. Dr. Belkin, a renowned dermatologist with a passion for rescue work, was honored for his ongoing efforts to raise awareness and resources for shelter pets. Their shared dedication served as the evening’s emotional cornerstone.

The gala unfolded with appearances and performances that balanced entertainment with impact. Grammy Award-winning artist Rob Thomas delivered a special live performance, while Georgina Bloomberg — an equestrian and noted philanthropist — made a surprise appearance. Z100’s Elvis Duran took the reins as auctioneer, energizing the crowd with high-profile items like Billy Joel and Sting concert tickets at Citi Field and a bucket-list safari experience at Wilderness Vumbura Plains Camp in Botswana. The night closed with a DJ set by GEO ROC that turned the elegant venue into a dance floor with a cause.

Among the guests lending their presence to the night were Alexandra Daddario, Dylan Lauren, Dr. Tomas Infernuso, Elizabeth Sutton, Clayton Thomas, and Rachel Donohue, joining NYC Second Chance Rescue co-founders Jennifer Brooks and Lisa Blanco in championing the organization’s impact.

Proceeds from the evening support NYC Second Chance Rescue’s Critical Care Fund — the backbone of its lifesaving work. The fund enables emergency surgeries, long-term medical treatments, and rehabilitation for animals requiring advanced veterinary intervention. Additional support from the gala will further key initiatives such as the Long Island City Adoption Center, Community Outreach Medical Fund, Freedom Rides from overcrowded and high-kill shelters, and the transformation of the organization’s new Ford Transit vehicle for transport and rescue missions.

The Rescue Ball’s fundraising momentum was bolstered by lead sponsors Carriage House Motor Cars and Hampton Jollys, whose support helped make the evening a success in both experience and outcome.

Founded in 2009, NYC Second Chance Rescue has saved over 16,000 lives — many of them large breed dogs and critically ill animals often overlooked in traditional shelter systems. The organization focuses on the pets who are hardest to place and most at risk, offering them comprehensive medical care and a path to a loving home through its foster network and permanent adoption center.

With over 90% of the animals it takes in originally facing euthanasia, the nonprofit continues to rewrite the narrative for shelter animals, one life at a time. The Rescue Ball stands as both a celebration of that mission and a reminder of what’s possible when compassion meets action.