NYC SECOND CHANCE RESCUE HONORS JOHN PAUL DEJORIA WITH PERFORMANCES BY ASHANTI AND FABOLOUS
NYC Second Chance Rescue brought philanthropy, music, and Hamptons nightlife together for its 5th Annual Concert for a Cause, held on August 21, 2026, at a private estate in Bridgehampton. The benefit honored entrepreneur, philanthropist, and longtime animal advocate John Paul DeJoria while celebrating the world introduction of Pawpoint.
The evening featured musical performances by Grammy Award-winning artist Ashanti and platinum-selling rapper Fabolous, who provided the soundtrack for a night dedicated to supporting vulnerable animals in need of lifesaving care.
“It is an honor to be recognized by NYC Second Chance Rescue. Their compassion, dedication, and commitment to animals are truly inspiring, and I am grateful to be part of an evening that will help so many animals in need,” DeJoria said.
A live auction offered guests the opportunity to bid on experiences including a yacht charter donated by Lauren and Eddie Shapiro of Nest Seekers International. An additional paddle raise generated further support for the organization’s rescue, medical treatment, rehabilitation, foster, and adoption programs.
The gathering drew figures from the worlds of entertainment, philanthropy, business, media, and Hamptons society. Notable attendees included John Paul DeJoria, Ashanti, Fabolous, Beth Stern, Carole Radziwill, Daisy Toye, Peter Cook, Kenneth and Maria Fishel, Blair and Margit Brandt, Eric Muschinski, Tina and Rocco Guidipipietro, Jennifer Brooks, Lisa Blanco, Lisa Rose, Katie McEntee, and Indira Cesarine, who attended on behalf of The Untitled Magazine.
The event also marked the public introduction of Pawpoint, a science-based canine wellness company focused on supporting healthy aging, immune balance, cellular health, and overall vitality in dogs.
Founded by Jennifer Brooks and Lisa Blanco in 2009, NYC Second Chance Rescue has saved more than 17,000 dogs and cats. The nonprofit specializes in helping animals facing some of the greatest barriers to adoption, including large-breed dogs and critically injured or medically complex cats and dogs rescued from overcrowded municipal shelters.
Through its foster network and Long Island City Adoption Center, the organization provides medical treatment, rehabilitation, and placement in permanent homes. Its community programs also help pet owners experiencing hardship keep their animals safely within their families.
The 2026 Concert for a Cause was supported by presenting sponsors Alexander Capital Ventures LLC, Montauk Project, and the Phenom Foundation, alongside Champion sponsors Renaissance Properties, Margot Brandt Palm Beach, and Cindy Karen.
Photo credit: BFA / David Benthal
