Zero Tolerance Benefit Raises $2.15M

Attended by prominent members of the New York City community, the annual Zero Tolerance Benefit at Pier Sixty/Chelsea Piers raised $2.15 million for programs that help survivors of domestic violence and sex trafficking.

Sanctuary For Families, a nonprofit that works with victims of domestic violence and gender violence, hosted the event. The Benefit was well attended, with stars such as Willie Geist, co-host of NBC’s Today and MSNBC’s Morning Joe, designer Rory Tahari, and academy award-wining director Ellen Goosenberg—among other notable guests.

Michael J. Sharp, general council and executive vice president of Jefferies Group, was presented with the Zero Tolerance Award for commitment to the Sanctuary for Families. The Law Firm Leadership Award was given to Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP for its “tireless and effective pro bono work on behalf of Sanctuary’s clients,” according to a Sanctuary for Families press release.

“Tonight Sanctuary for Families is proud to celebrate 30 years of progress against domestic violence and sex trafficking,” said Hon. Judy Harris Kluger, executive director of Sanctuary for Families.  “Nevertheless, we know that gender violence remains an issue of epidemic proportions. The money raised this evening makes it possible for our staff to reach more victims, educate the community, advocate for change and bring us closer to ending the abuse forever.”