For five decades, we've partnered with community leaders who are making a real difference in neighborhoods across NYC.
The New Yorkers for New York Gala annually recognizes the community, business, political, and philanthropic leaders who are committed to investing in and elevating New Yorkers at the forefront of change in their neighborhoods.
Join us on Monday, June 2nd, 2025 at the Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers!
Meet the 2025 New Yorkers for New York
Jay Goffman is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Smith Goffman Partners, a merchant bank specializing in restructuring. With over 40 years of experience, he has restructured more than $1 trillion in debt, pioneering the concept of prepackaged reorganizations. Previously, he served as Client Chairman at Teneo Financial Advisory, Vice-Chairman at Rothschild & Co., and Global Head of Skadden’s Corporate Restructuring Group. Recognized as one of The National Law Journal’s “Most Influential Lawyers of the Decade” and The American Lawyer’s “Dealmaker of the Year,” he has led high-profile restructurings across industries, including the record-breaking turnaround of MGM. A frequent lecturer and writer on restructuring, he continues to innovate in the field, helping businesses navigate financial challenges with efficiency and impact.
Jay Goffman
Smith Goffman Partners
Jibreel Jalloh
The Flossy Organization
Jibreel Jalloh is the founder of The Flossy Organization, a grassroots movement dedicated to dismantling inequities through civic engagement and collective action. His work empowers local advocates with the skills to drive change from within their communities. Under his leadership, The Flossy Organization has successfully mobilized residents to prevent harmful developments, such as a proposed pesticide facility in Canarsie, and has trained hundreds of New Yorkers to lead issue-based movements on causes from anti-gun violence to climate justice. Now, Jibreel is focused on leveraging AI-powered technology to expand the organization’s advocacy efforts, bridging the gap between technology and grassroots activism to turn passive community members into active changemakers.
Daniel Puerto
Love Wins Food Pantry
Daniel Puerto is the co-founder of Love Wins Food Pantry, a community-driven initiative led by LGBTQ+ individuals that feeds over 500 people every Friday. Established during the COVID-19 pandemic, the pantry has become a vital resource for food-insecure New Yorkers, embodying Daniel’s commitment to grassroots organizing and mutual aid. With over a decade of experience in community activism, policy advocacy, and service provision, Daniel has worked to uplift LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities across NYC. He currently organizes with SAGE, the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ organization for older adults, advocating for affordable housing and intergenerational programming. His work has been recognized by The Indypendent, The Washington Post, El Diario, Out Magazine, MSNBC, and City & State NY.
50th Anniversary Committee
Janet L. Burak, Esq. | Paul Deutch | Joel Press | Sharon King Hoge | Chris Ruggeri
You Can Make a Difference!
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