In celebration of the fortieth anniversary of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF), Elin and Michael Nierenberg hosted the nineteenth annual “Collaborating for a Cure” benefit dinner and auction on November 10th at Cipriani Wall Street. Historically one of New York’s top fundraising events, this year was no disappointment, raising approximately $2.5 million for SWCRF cancer research programs. The night involved a special dedication to Vince Camuto, founder of the Camuto Group. The event, which has fondly been given the nickname “The Waxman” was attended by more than 750 guests. Attendees included; Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, Michael Nierenberg, Elin Nierenberg, Chris Wragge, Louise Camuto, Roger Daltrey, Willie Nile, Spencer Waxman, Hugh Hildesley, Kenneth Fishel, David Hinkelman, Robert Kantor, Howard Kurz, Howard Shlafmitz, Baron Silverstein, Dena K. Weiner, Mary Kantor, John Varvatos, Joyce Varvatos and Jean Shafiroff.
Established in 1976 by Samuel Waxman, M.D., the SWCRF funds research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function to cure cancer. Since the founding, SWCRF has invested an incredible $90 million in cancer research. Scientists that have received contribution from the SWCRF are accountable for achieving critical strides in cancer research, especially with identifying alternative means to treat and eradicate cancer.
The occasion was marked with the major announcement of the SWCRF Vince Camuto Memorial Cancer Research Program that will help support the Aging and Cancer program. This program is formed in the memory of footwear industry icon Vince Camuto and will support SWCRF with $300,000 over the next three years. The declaration was launched with a moving video tribute to Vince Camuto who lost his battle with prostate cancer in 2015. While alive, Vince was a devoted philanthropist, mainly concerned with charities that benefit women, children and families. Vince’s wife, Louise, accepted the award on her husband’s behalf. Louise is also a compassionate philanthropist to cancer research and treatment charities including St. Jude Children’s Hospital and FFANY Shoes on Sale breast cancer research. Mrs. Camuto expressed the impact of supporting the cancer research SWCRF funds after personally experiencing the suffering of husband’s death. Mrs. Camuto was not the only one to speak on behalf of the late fashion icon, Tory Burch designer, Terry Lundgren offered a few words on this pioneer’s life as a fashion industry leader.
The evening concluded with a live performance by Roger Daltrey of The Who. Daltrey was joined onstage with a surprise appearance by Willie Nile. Throughout the gala, guests were given the opportunity to bid on a number of select items through the live and silent auctions.
If you missed out on this chance to support cancer research, don’t worry, there are still more auction items available online. You have until November 22nd to bid on a number of select items at CharityBuzz.com.
