On a crisp September evening in New York, the city’s philanthropic and cultural circles gathered at Findlay Galleries to toast the upcoming 25th Annual Casita Maria Fiesta, the signature black-tie fundraiser that has become a staple on the autumn social calendar.
Hosted by Findlay Galleries owners Stephanie and Fred Clark, the cocktail reception offered an intimate and spirited prelude to what promises to be a milestone celebration for Casita Maria, the nation’s oldest Latino charity. Guests were welcomed with glasses of champagne and a gallery filled with world-class art, setting an atmosphere of both elegance and conviviality.
A Warm Welcome from Leadership
Casita Maria Board Chair Jacqueline Weld Drake, radiant as ever, addressed the crowd with warmth and gratitude. “This event is to thank all our supporters and people that we love,” she shared. “And we hope that you will all buy tickets, if not tables, and meet us at Fiesta! as this year is truly special. We’re honoring my dear friends Kamie Lightburn, David X. Sánchez (a.k.a. David Daxsen), and Tina Vidal-Duart—each recognized for their work in youth empowerment, cultural leadership, and community advancement. Barbara Tober will also receive the special Jackie Award, recognizing her longstanding service in support of Casita Maria’s mission and her many philanthropic projects.”
The remarks underscored the evening’s theme: a blend of celebration and purpose, highlighting the vital work Casita Maria has championed for more than nine decades in the South Bronx and East Harlem.
An Illustrious Guest List
The cocktail brought together an impressive mix of board members, patrons, and tastemakers. Trustees Martha Bograd, Michèle Gerber Klein, Patrick Moran, and Jean Shafiroff were in attendance, alongside a constellation of New York society names. Guests spotted mingling included Muffie Potter Aston, Peter Bacanovic, Paola Bacchini, Edgar Batista, Louis and Cece Black, Kathy Bleznak, Lady Liliana and Lord William Cavendish, Angela Chen, Joan Hardy Clark, Lee Fryd, Susan Gutfreund, Mai Hallingby, Cheri Kaufman, Margo Langenberg, Christopher Mason, Brock Pierce, Encarnita and Robert Quinlan, Topper Quinn, August Quinn, Marc Rosen, Hunt Slonem, Mary Snow, Kyle Thompson, Saundra Whitney, Kamie Lightburn, Tina Vidal-Duart, and HRH Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia.
The atmosphere was buoyant as guests moved through the gallery, admiring both the artwork on display and the glittering company. Conversations about the upcoming Fiesta mingled with updates on art, travel, and the season’s social highlights, giving the night the unmistakable energy of New York at its philanthropic best.
Honorees and Highlights
This year’s Fiesta honorees reflect Casita Maria’s commitment to recognizing leaders who have not only excelled in their fields but also contributed meaningfully to the community. Kamie Lightburn is celebrated for her philanthropic endeavors and longstanding dedication to education and youth empowerment. David X. Sánchez, known professionally as David Daxsen, is recognized as a global cultural entrepreneur whose work bridges music, media, and social innovation. Tina Vidal-Duart, a distinguished healthcare executive, is honored for her leadership and advocacy in advancing community wellness.
Adding to the evening’s sense of heritage, the Jackie Award will be presented to philanthropist Barbara Tober. A longstanding supporter of Casita Maria and an influential figure across the arts and nonprofit sectors, Tober’s recognition ties together a lifetime of service with the organization’s enduring legacy.
Looking Ahead to the Plaza
All eyes are now on the main event: the 25th Annual Casita Maria Fiesta, set for Monday, October 20, at The Plaza Hotel. The black-tie evening promises dinner, dancing, and live music in the grand tradition of New York society galas. But beyond the sparkle lies a deeper mission: raising critical funds to support Casita Maria’s year-round arts education, youth development, and family programming in underserved communities.
Founded in 1934, Casita Maria has become a cornerstone for thousands of children and families in the South Bronx and East Harlem. Its programs cultivate creativity, leadership, and opportunity, shaping future generations through the transformative power of the arts. As the organization marks its 91st year, the Fiesta stands as both a celebration of its achievements and a rallying call for continued investment in its future.
A Legacy of Celebration and Service
For many attendees, the kickoff at Findlay Galleries was more than just another cocktail—it was a reminder of how philanthropy, art, and community converge in New York. The evening exemplified the unique spirit of Casita Maria: honoring tradition while embracing innovation, nurturing community while celebrating excellence.
As guests departed into the night, anticipation for the upcoming Fiesta was palpable. With its luminous honorees, glamorous setting, and worthy mission, this year’s gala promises to be one of the most memorable yet—a fitting tribute to a quarter-century of Fiesta and to Casita Maria’s enduring impact.
For tickets and further information, please visit: https://www.casitamaria.org/fiesta-2025
