About LEAP
We believe in the power of art. Each year, LEAP offers 20,000 NYC school children creative experiences that inspire them to pursue their passions, develop their strengths, and amplify their voices.
We're thrilled to host our third annual Spring Benefit: LEAP for the Stars!
This vibrant evening shines a bright light on the impact we have in the lives of young people across NYC and celebrates the team members, partners and supporters who make our mission possible!
Event Highlights
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Cocktail Hour with signature drinks and hors d’oeuvres
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Live Youth Performances and Art Gallery
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Silent Auction with exclusive experiences
Benefit Co-Chairs
Karen Sonet-Rosenthal
Lori Rotskoff
Andy Tomback
Host Committee
Mauricio Barberi Dora Gutierrez
Katrin Bruschi Jenny Harris
Lisa Pilar Cowan Patricia Keim​
Joel Dankwa Bianca Kofahl​
Drew Giddings​ Stacey Winter
Jared Giles Larissa Zhurakovskaya
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Rich Souto
LEAP Leadership Award
For his 10 years of transformative leadership and 25 years in service to NYC youth
For 25 years, Rich has led creative and effective youth programs in partnership with educators, supporters, and community leaders to create opportunity and promote equity for NYC children. Throughout his career, Rich has led with purpose, passion, and results and this evening will offer recognition and appreciation for his authentic leadership.
Daisy Santiago and Torey Nelson
Creative Mentors of the Year
Highlighting two talented and passionate Teaching Artists who exemplify the LEAP Way in their work with young people and in our communities. This year, we're awarding our first Creative Mentor Awards!
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Daisy Santiago, Teaching Artist, LEAP Afterschool Programs
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Torey Nelson, Teaching Artist, LEAP Arts Residency Programs
Tyrik Iman-Washington, Jr.
Alumni Host
Tyrik Iman-Washington Jr. is a Brooklyn-born performer, writer, director, and educator, raised in a musical and artistic family where his passion for the performing arts was nurtured from an early age. He began his journey singing in church, which soon led him to both stage and screen, with appearances on PBS Theatre Talk and CUNY TV's Let It Rip. As a writer, educator, and director, Tyrik is deeply committed to using art as a vehicle for education, empowerment, and social change.
Tyrik’s LEAP journey began in 2017 as a student at the Dock Street School in Brooklyn. From his first performance in The Movement to starring in multiple LEAP productions, Tyrik quickly emerged as a passionate and powerful performer. Today, he continues to shine—not only as an actor—but as a LEAP Teaching Artist, mentoring the next generation of young creatives. We are thrilled to have Tyrik as our Host for this year’s Spring Benefit: LEAP for the Stars!​