FDNY Foundation Honors Supporters, Raises More Than $1.7 Million at Annual Humanitarian Awards
The 2012 Humanitarian Award recipient was Jonathan (Jody) Durst, President of the Durst Organization. (L to R) Chief of Department Edward Kilduff, Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano, Jody Durst, Chairman of the FDNY Foundation Steve Ruzow, former Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen.
It was a night to honor some of the FDNY's biggest supporters.
The Fire Commissioner's Humanitarian Awards and Dinner on Apr. 4 at the New York Hilton was a night for the FDNY Foundation to honor leaders who support the FDNY and fire safety. The successful event also raised more than $1.7 million for their programs.
This year's Humanitarian Award recipient was Jonathan (Jody) Durst, President of the Durst Organization. Mr. Durst oversees the management and operations of 15 million square feet of office and residential space, as well as leading the Durst Organization's development, management and leasing of One World Trade Center.
The FDNY Foundation Special Recognition Award was presented to Congressman Peter King, Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Congressman King is currently serving his 10th term in the U.S. House of Representatives and has been a major champion for FDNY and 9/11-related causes.
FOX 5 Good Day New York Anchor Rosanna Scotto served as the evening's Master of Ceremonies.
The Service Recognition Award was awarded to the FDNY's Chaplains for offering endless support to FDNY members. And the Chief William M. Feehan Fire Safety Education Award was presented to representatives from P.S. 140 in the Bronx for their dedication to implementing the FDNY's fire safety initiatives.
Established in 1981, the FDNY Foundation is the official non-profit organization of the Department that helps bring the vital message of fire safety and prevention to all New Yorkers. It also supports the life-saving work of the FDNY through various programs that provide new equipment, training and support for thousands of firefighters and EMS members.
In the last several years, thanks to the efforts of the FDNY Foundation, more than one million New Yorkers have received fire safety education and more than 100,000 New Yorkers have received CPR training. Each year the FDNY Foundation helps distribute more than 100,000 batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.