(Left to right) Jeannette S. Warner, Esq., 2021 “Spirit of Caring” Awardee; Sidney W. Witter, Community Service Honoree; Tom Gabriel, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam
(Left to right) William Mooney III, Esq., Beacon Bank; Christina Armentano, Chairman’s Award Honoree; Tom Gabriel, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam
United Way of Westchester and Putnam (United Way) hosted its 10th Annual Imagine Gala, presented by Paraco Gas, on Tuesday, June 2, at Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, New York. Nonprofit leaders, community supporters, and corporate partners gathered for a special evening celebrating the “Spirit of Caring,” honoring those whose generosity and leadership transform lives across Westchester and Putnam.
“Whether this is your first time or you’ve been with us for many, many years, we can’t thank you enough for choosing to help us write stories of hope, resilience, and survival in our community,” said Tom Gabriel, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, in his opening remarks.
The “Spirit of Caring” award is United Way’s highest level of recognition. This year, the honor was presented to three exceptional recipients.
Community Service Award – Sidney W. Witter
A native New Yorker, Sidney Witter’s life has been defined by a deep commitment to community service and philanthropy. During a lengthy career in finance as an equity analyst and trader, she became deeply involved in NYC nonprofits supporting vulnerable populations. After moving to Westchester, Sidney began an especially active period of philanthropic and civic involvement in the local community, supporting United Way and guided by a strong belief in the importance of community programs that strengthen families and improve lives.
“This recognition means a great deal to me because it comes from an organization that has consistently changed lives in our community for decades,” said Witter.
Corporate Citizenship Award – MVP Health Care Volunteers
MVP Health Care is a nationally recognized, not‑for‑profit health insurer caring for members in New York and Vermont. Beyond coverage, MVP is dedicated to community well‑being, investing in local health initiatives, education, fitness programs, and care access. MVP volunteers have supported United Way on a monthly basis, embodying a shared commitment to improving health and well-being across the community. The award was accepted by Jackie Marciniak on behalf of MVP Health Care.
“What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it reflects a collective commitment. It represents thousands of volunteer hours, strong community partnership, and a shared understanding that improving health requires all of us,” said Marciniak.
Chairman’s Award – Christina Armentano and Paraco Gas
Christina Armentano, COO/EVP of Paraco, a family-owned energy company, is a business leader deeply committed to strengthening the communities where she lives and works. A board member of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Christina strongly believes that leadership extends beyond the workplace and is actively engaged in nonprofits focused on stability, opportunity, and access to essential resources for families.
“United Way has given so much to me personally. I am surrounded by people that are so amazing, inspiring, and really motivated to do something that makes a significant difference,” said Armentano.
The evening also served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need that exists across the region. In his remarks, Tom Gabriel spoke candidly about the economic realities facing working families in Westchester and Putnam, noting that nearly 40% of neighbors are living in poverty or paycheck to paycheck. He highlighted United Way’s growing impact, sharing that last year the organization invested or leveraged nearly $46 million in community impact, a 300% increase since 2019.
“It may seem like a small act of kindness, but I can tell you, your being here tonight tells a powerful story,” said Gabriel.
For nearly 65 years, United Way has served as a safety net for the community, and the generosity shown at the 10th Annual Imagine Gala was a testament to that enduring commitment.
United Way’s Imagine Gala is generously supported byParaco Gas, Sidney W. Witter, IBM, Margaret and David Yawman, MVP Health Care, PepsiCo, Webster Bank, African American Men of Westchester, Dan Drake and Elliot Stultz, PCSB Community Foundation, PURE Insurance, Simone Development Companies, Wegmans, Apple Bank, Atlantic Tomorrow, Empire Casino by MGM Resorts, Engage PEO, Fifth Third Wealth Advisors, Lori and Walter Hosp, Lawley Insurance, M&T Bank, NewYork-Presbyterian, and White Plains Hospital.
Website: www.uwwp.org, for more information.
