2024 Heroes, Heart & Hope Gala Celebrates Courage, Community, and $2.4M Raised for Athletes with Physical Disabilities 

For nearly two decades, the Heroes, Heart & Hope Gala has been one of the most inspiring nights on the Challenged Athletes Foundation’s (CAF) calendar. Since its first year in New York City, the gala has grown into a cornerstone fundraising event—bringing together philanthropists, business leaders, athletes, and advocates to champion CAF’s mission of empowering individuals with physical disabilities through sport. Over the years, the event has not only raised millions of dollars but has also amplified the voices and stories of athletes whose determination and achievements challenge perceptions of what is possible. 

On Wednesday, September 18, the 18th annual gala returned in full force at Casa Cipriani, a venue known for its elegant architecture and sweeping waterfront views. The evening celebrated extraordinary athletes, raised critical funds, and reaffirmed the community’s shared belief that sport has the power to transform lives. 

A Night of Inspiration in the Heart of New York 

The event opened with an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. Attendees from New York’s philanthropic circles mingled with CAF athletes and supporters, while celebrities such as Bob Costas joined the celebration. As the night unfolded, it became clear that this was more than a fundraiser—it was a gathering of people united by a commitment to breaking barriers and expanding access to sport. 

Guests were treated to an immersive program that blended powerful storytelling with opportunities to make an immediate impact. Video segments and live presentations highlighted CAF’s programs, showcasing how adaptive sports equipment, coaching, and mentorship change lives every day. 

Leadership and Longstanding Commitment 

The gala owes much of its success to the dedication of Scott and Emily Stackman, whose leadership over the past 18 years has shaped the event into a defining moment for CAF in the Northeast. Their vision has transformed the gala from a single-night celebration into a platform for sustained awareness, engagement, and funding for athletes across the region. 

This year’s program also honored Alan Mnuchin for his exceptional support and volunteerism. Since 2006, Mnuchin and his family have been deeply involved in CAF events, leveraging their time, resources, and connections to help provide adaptive sports opportunities for athletes around the world. 

Athlete Stories That Move and Motivate 

The most powerful moments of the evening came from the athletes themselves: 

• Scott and Tyler Sussman: Diagnosed with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia, both father and son have refused to let their condition define their limits. Scott, once misdiagnosed with cerebral palsy, discovered adaptive sports later in life and has since embraced them alongside his son. Their journey exemplifies resilience and the unshakable belief that athletic dreams remain possible at any stage of life. 

• Rosalie Parker: At 14 years old, Rosalie is a testament to courage. After losing all four limbs in a 2020 car accident, she discovered adaptive sports through a CAF baseball clinic. She has since become an active participant and mentor within the community. During a heartfelt interview with Bob Costas, Rosalie presented him with a painting of a female batter—a symbol of her new beginning and a gesture of gratitude. “She’s painted as a sunshine because it’s the beginning of a new life,” she explained, earning a standing ovation from the audience. 

These stories not only moved the room but also highlighted the critical gap CAF fills—providing resources and opportunities that are rarely covered by insurance and often out of financial reach. 

Record-Breaking Fundraising for a Greater Impact 

By the end of the night, the gala had raised over $2.4 million. These funds will directly support grants for adaptive sports equipment, travel to competitions, training programs, and community outreach—helping athletes gain confidence, independence, and access to the sports they love. 

As Scott Stackman put it, “CAF is helping the next generation of athletes break down barriers and achieve what was once thought of as impossible. The funds raised will have a profound impact on the lives of athletes with physical disabilities, enabling them to achieve their full potential and thrive.” 

Casa Cipriani: A Venue Worthy of the Occasion 

Located at 10 South Street in Lower Manhattan, Casa Cipriani provided a breathtaking backdrop for the gala. The historic Battery Maritime Building, with its timeless architecture and harbor views, created an atmosphere that perfectly matched the evening’s blend of elegance, hope, and celebration. 

Gratitude to Gala Partners and Supporters 

The success of the Heroes, Heart & Hope Gala would not be possible without the generosity of sponsors and donors who share CAF’s vision. Their contributions ensure that athletes with physical disabilities have the tools, training, and support they need to thrive. 

This year’s event was made possible thanks to the support of:
American Securities, Beatrice & Jeffrey Altman, Deborah Loeb Brice Foundation, The Pershing Square Foundation, Pvolve, Sharper Image, Smile Direct Club, Gary Sumers and Elizabeth Fowler, Third Point LLC, Connie and Mike Casey, Nike, ROTH Capital Partners, Melissa Silver and Ricky Sandler, UBS Financial Services, Alessandra and Alan Mnuchin, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Elizabeth and Jeffrey Bier, BTIG, Jen and Lyle Casriel, Chudnoff Family/ JLL, Andie and Jon Kully, Gloria LaGrassa, Lyrical Asset Management, Maguire Foundation, May Family/ Silverstein Capital Markets, Cynthia and David Wassong, Wüsthof, and The KRE Group.

Keep the Momentum Going 

While the gala was an extraordinary night, its true impact will be felt in the months and years ahead as athletes receive the grants, equipment, and opportunities made possible by the funds raised. For those inspired by the event, there’s still time to contribute and help create more stories of triumph.