Building A Foundation: All In For New York Honorees Jeffrey D. Saferstein and Brian J. Fox
CitizensNYC's signature fall fundraising event, the All In for NYC Cocktail Reception, will shine a light on two exceptional individuals whose dedication to New York City runs deep: Jeffrey D. Saferstein and Brian J. Fox. As we celebrate their professional leadership and accomplishments, we also recognize their unwavering commitment to fostering vibrant communities across the five boroughs.
Brian J. Fox: A Legacy of Urban Transformation
For Brian Fox, Managing Director with Alvarez & Marsal North American Commercial Restructuring Practice (NACR) in New York, a passion for building communities is woven into the very fabric of his family history. "My uncle was an architectural historian," he shares, "and my son is a civil engineer. Urban infrastructure and building communities have always been part of our family narrative." This connection resonates with CitizensNYC's mission, as Brian explains, "I admire how CitizensNYC is building a foundation, improving the city one project, one block, one empty lot at a time. It's an exciting opportunity to reclaim NYC, for the greatness that it was and the diversity that it now is."
Brian's professional career reflects his dedication to fostering positive change. As Leader of NACR’s East region, he provides a full range of financial advisory, operational improvement and interim management services in restructurings and other special situations, both in court and outside of bankruptcy. He leads a team dedicated to finding solutions and navigating complex situations, and just like the community leaders that CitizensNYC supports, Brian faces challenges head on and finds the right solution. Brian recognizes the potential for revitalization within these challenges, and his support for CitizensNYC allows the organization to empower local leaders who are already making a difference.
Jeffrey D. Saferstein: A Deeply Rooted New Yorker with a Vision for Renewal
Jeffrey D. Saferstein, a partner in Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP's Restructuring Group, embodies the spirit of New York City. "My grandparents came over to America and settled in the Lower East Side," he recalls, "it is part of our family history." This deep connection extends to his current life. "I've lived in Manhattan ever since graduating law school," he says, "and my kids are all real New Yorkers, born and raised."
Talk to anyone who has worked with Jeffrey and you’ll hear stories about a person who just gets things done. Jeffrey’s known throughout his industry as a problem solver, and in his firm as a great mentor. And just like the city that means so much to him and his family, there’s no problem he can’t solve with his team.
Jeffrey speaks fondly of the city's vibrant energy, particularly the role parks played in his children's lives. "When they were little, the parks were entertainment and the place to go," he reminisces. However, he also acknowledges the changes the city has undergone over the years. "30 years ago, it was different," he reflects, "there was a special magic about it. I would love to see it get back to where it was."
CitizensNYC's work aligns with Jeffrey's desire to cultivate this magic once again. His daughter's experience as a public school teacher in East Harlem and his son's experience as a community curator in Tribeca highlight the importance of strong communities. By supporting CitizensNYC, Jeffrey helps ensure that these communities have the resources they need to thrive.
Investing in the Future
Both Jeffrey and Brian recognize the challenges facing New York City's communities, but they also see enormous potential. CitizensNYC's micro-grants empower local leaders with the resources they need to address local issues, create jobs, and foster a sense of belonging. Through their leadership and generosity, Jeffrey and Brian are not just supporting CitizensNYC's mission; they are investing in the future of their beloved city.
The All In for NYC Fall Cocktail Reception is more than just a fundraiser. It's a celebration of individuals like Jeffrey and Brian, who exemplify the spirit of New York City: resilient, driven, and committed to building a brighter future for all. Join us as we honor these remarkable leaders and raise critical funds to empower grassroots leaders across the city.