This year’s event is themed around the subway system, and all the vital connections that the subway (and Robin Hood) make for New Yorkers.
Through the years, we’ve been so fortunate to have the participation of many generous individuals at our benefit event. These people, and many more working behind-the-scenes, help make it truly memorable night.
Tonight, we are thrilled to have Brian Williams and Seth Meyers serve as our hosts for the evening. Previous hosts of the Robin Hood benefit have included Robin Williams, Jon Stewart, Billy Crystal, Mike Myers, and Jerry Seinfeld.
The co-chairs for the evening are Gretchen & Steve Burke (CEO of NBC Universal), Abby & Eli Manning (NY Giants Quarterback and Super Bowl MVP,) and Sheri & Howard Schultz (CEO of Starbucks).
The very first benefit was headlined by The Four Tops. Additional past performers have included The Who, Aerosmith, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, James Brown, David Bowie, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and Beyoncé. Combined, these acts have sold over 1 billion records. Tonight, Rihanna adds her name to that list.
Thank you to all the famous faces who’ve helped make a difference in the lives of fellow New Yorkers.
Tonight’s Robin Hood benefit marks the 22nd annual benefit for our organization. What started as a small get together which raised $700,000 has grown into a 4,000 person event, raising $47 million in 2011.
Turning the Javits Center into the incredible backdrop for tonight’s program is no easy task. In just 2 short days, we’ve installed 2 miles of truss, which is used to hold the lighting fixtures, speakers and decorative elements. Forty-five separate laptop stations will be used to check-in more than 4,000 expected guests. And approximately 500 dozen subway-themed cookies will be brought out as part of tonight’s dessert.
We are looking forward to an incredible evening. Please follow our twitter account (@RobinHoodNYC) and the hash tag #RHBenefit for updates throughout the night.
