United Way of Westchester and Putnam, located in White Plains, New York, hosted its 10th annual Imagine Gala, presented by Paraco Gas, on Tuesday, June 2, at Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, New York. Nonprofit leaders, community supporters and corporate partners gathered for a special evening celebrating the “Spirit of Caring,” honoring those whose generosity and leadership transform lives across Westchester and Putnam counties.
“Whether this is your first time or you’ve been with us for many, many years, we can’t thank you enough for choosing to help us write stories of hope, resilience and survival in our community,” said Tom Gabriel, president and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, in his opening remarks.
The “Spirit of Caring” award is United Way’s highest level of recognition. This year, the honor was presented to three exceptional recipients.
Community Service Award – Sidney W. Witter:
A native New Yorker, Sidney Witter’s life has been defined by a deep commitment to community service and philanthropy. During a lengthy career in finance as an equity analyst and trader, she became deeply involved in New York City nonprofits supporting vulnerable populations. After moving to Westchester, Witter began an especially active period of philanthropic and civic involvement in the local community, supporting United Way and guided by a strong belief in the importance of community programs that strengthen families and improve lives.
“This recognition means a great deal to me because it comes from an organization that has consistently changed lives in our community for decades,” said Witter.
Corporate Citizenship Award – MVP Health Care Volunteers
MVP Health Care is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit health insurer caring for members in New York and Vermont. Beyond coverage, MVP is dedicated to community well-being, investing in local health initiatives, education, fitness programs and care access. MVP volunteers have supported United Way, on a monthly basis, embodying a shared commitment to improving health and well-being across the community. The award was accepted by Jackie Marciniak on behalf of MVP Health Care.
“What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it reflects a collective commitment. It represents thousands of volunteer hours, strong community partnership, and a shared understanding that improving health requires all of us,” said Marciniak.
Chairman’s Award – Christina Armentano and Paraco Gas
Christina Armentano, COO/EVP of Paraco, a family-owned energy company, is a business leader deeply committed to strengthening the communities where she lives and works. A board member of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Armentano strongly believes that leadership extends beyond the workplace and is actively engaged in nonprofits focused on stability, opportunity and access to essential resources for families.
“United Way has given so much to me personally. I am surrounded by people that are so amazing, inspiring and really motivated to do something that makes a significant difference,” said Armentano.
The evening also served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need that exists across the region. In his remarks, Tom Gabriel spoke candidly about the economic realities facing working families in Westchester and Putnam, noting that nearly 40 percent of neighbors are living in poverty or paycheck to paycheck. He highlighted United Way’s growing impact, sharing that last year the organization invested or leveraged nearly $46 million in community impact, a 300% increase since 2019.
“It may seem like a small act of kindness, but I can tell you, your being here tonight tells a powerful story,” said Gabriel.
For nearly 65 years, United Way has served as a safety net for the community, and the generosity shown at the 10th annual Imagine Gala was a testament to that enduring commitment.
United Way’s Imagine Gala is generously supported by Paraco Gas, Sidney W. Witter, IBM, Margaret and David Yawman, MVP Health Care, PepsiCo, Webster Bank, African American Men of Westchester, Dan Drake and Elliot Stultz, PCSB Community Foundation, PURE Insurance, Simone Development Companies, Wegmans, Apple Bank, Atlantic Tomorrow, Empire Casino by MGM Resorts, Engage PEO, Fifth Third Wealth Advisors, Lori and Walter Hosp, Lawley Insurance, M&T Bank, NewYork-Presbyterian, and White Plains Hospital.
United Way of Westchester and Putnam is an anti-poverty organization dedicated to improving the lives of 40 percent of the people who live in poverty or paycheck to paycheck. United Way provides strategic resources and tools to help struggling residents lead a better, more stable life. The tools include 211 Helpline operating 24/7 across the Hudson Valley, early literacy programming for preschoolers in underserved communities, job skills training and financial empowerment for financially struggling adults and families, as well as access to health services and discounts on prescription drugs. United Way supports hundreds of local nonprofits with millions of dollars in grants and essential goods for basic needs, as well as by providing affordable professional development and connecting nonprofits to new resources.
