RESIDENT’S MOST INSPIRING YOUNG PHILANTHROPISTS

By W.A. Muller

A new generation of New York's most innovative and talented young philanthropists has arrived! Each bearing fresh takes and new perspectives on their respective field, our list of Philanthropists Under 30 has achieved much in local history preservation, animal care or fine art education. Here they share their inspiring stories and visions for the organizations they care most about.

ALEXANDER N. HAMER is 26 year-old. He grew up in Cheshire, England and lived there until he was 15. He then moved to Greenwich, CT, and traveled back and forth between the two places. He attended school until he was 20 due to his passion for equestrian sport. School and horses were obviously conflicting. He has since moved to Manhattan and maintains a home in Bedford where there is a large equestrian community. His passion for horses, riding and animals led him there. He has served on the Board of Trustees for The Friends of John Jay Homestead, and The Board of Directors for The Bedford Riding Lanes Association for more than six years. He joined the Bedford Historical Society Board in 2010. After living in a historic town like Bedford, he recognized how important the preservation of history and conservation of open space is to the town. He wants to help make sure it stays that way. Not only is his knowledge of Bedford history now fairly vast, he is also able to bring a young and energetic vibe to these organizations which are often run by older members of the prominent families who have lived in the community for generations. Also a supporter of the Humane Society, the ASPCA and numerous horse rescue groups, Hamer has two dogs; Lilly (6) from the ASPCA and William (2) from Danny and Ron's Rescue.

For more information:
johnjayhomestead.org

NICOLE HANLEY MELLON is the co-founder of HANLEY MELLON – a luxury lifestyle brand she created with her husband, Matthew Mellon. The mother of two, Nicole serves on the Museum of the City of New York's Director's Council. The Museum celebrates and interprets the city, educating the public about its distinctive character, especially its heritage of diversity, opportunity, and perpetual transformation. Founded in 1923 as a private, nonprofit corporation, the Museum connects the past, present, and future of New York City. It serves the people of New York and visitors from around the world through exhibitions, school and public programs, publications, and collections.

For more information:
mcny.org

DAVID COLGATE "COLE" RUMBOUGH is the 22-year-old grandson of actress and socialite Dina Merrill. He is the fourth generation in his family to support the New York City Mission Society. The oldest charitable organization in New York, the NYC Mission Society helps children, youth, and families in New York City's poorest neighborhoods transcend the ills of poverty and create a cycle of success for generations to come.

When Dina Merrill was first married to Stanley Rumbough, her mother-in-law, Elizabeth Colgate, introduced her to the Mission Society saying "Every bride needs a charity." She has been involved ever since as has her son, Stanley Hutton Rumbough, and now grandson, Cole. By the way, Dina Merrill wasn't the only talent in the family; you can now hear Cole Rumbough sing jazz at the Le Cirque Cafe.

For more information:
nycmissionsociety.org