The nonprofit Culture for One will be honoring Bergdorf Goodman with the Inspiration Award at its annual gala this fall.
Scheduled for Nov. 3 at the Edison Ballroom in New York City, the gathering is expected to attract 200 guests and it will coincide with its 15th anniversary. The organization shares the power of the arts with New York City children who are in foster care. Many of the event’s stylish attendees will recognize Harold Koda, the former curator in charge at the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, who, as a Culture for One board member, will present the Inspiration Award to Melissa Xides, chief retail officer of Bergdorf Goodman, in recognition of the company’s support and partnership over the past three years. With that added enforcement, Culture for One has been able to expand its arts scholarships, cultural excursions and creative arts workshops in order to reach more than 3,000 children each year.
In 2023, when Bergdorf Goodman established the Bergdorf Goodman Foundation Fund, the aim was to create a charitable initiative that uplifted underserved communities in New York City by way of the arts. At that time, Culture for One was singled out as its first beneficiary. Together they have helped marginalized youth with diverse cultural experiences and positive role models to inspire them to recognize their talents and to be emboldened to explore the possibilities of the future.
“Bergdorf Goodman’s support enables Culture for One to increase the number of children it serves and the richness of its programs,” said the nonprofit’s executive director Susan Kasarsky. “In our milestone 15th year, we are thrilled to have the ongoing support of an organization that prioritizes giving back to our community and understands the importance of the arts in changing lives.”
The organization aims to offer opportunities in the arts that inspire creativity, build confidence, create community and widen opportunities for the future. The luxury retailer is nearing a major milestone of its own, as it is a nearly 125-year-old New York institution. Touting the retailer’s pride in supporting Culture for One’s mission, Xides, who has worked with the luxury retailer for more than six years, said, “Their tireless work provides invaluable access to the arts and empowers young people in New York City to achieve and thrive.” Guests at this fall’s gala will catch live performances by two groups of young singers and some dancers. There will also be an exhibition of art by children who participate in art classes that Culture for One makes possible. The funds that are raised at the event will further expand Culture for One’s arts-based programming which empowers children to build resilience, forge meaningful connections, and envision brighter futures.