One of our favorite things to do at JSD is lend our support to local charities and causes. Of the organizations we’ve worked with the Reeves Foundation is at the top of our list. Their tireless dedication to finding a cure and providing assistance for people with spinal cord injuries. The foundation hosts several fundraising events each year, one of which is the “Night for a Cure”. The celebrity driven cocktail party featured Grey Goose cocktails, passing hors d’oeuvre by chef Steve Talbot, and desserts by Crumbs bakeshop (delicious!). The event was held on the rooftop of the stylish Mondrian Soho Hotel. The lush space was packed with party goers who mingled with celebrity guests and lent additional support by bidding on silent auction items.
Actress Taraji P. Henson
Kara DioGuardi rocked a Maggy London sheath dress
Celebrities spotted during the night’s festivities included official host Julianne Moore, Kara Dioguardi, interior designer Nate Berkus, as well as actress Taraji P. Henson. We caught up with Ms. Henson for a quick Q and A on the red carpet, just moments before she entered the party (coming soon).
Francesco Clark and Nate Berkus
In addition to the celebrities beauty entrepreneur Francesco Clark was also on hand and offered the crowd a glimpse into his life. Clark suffered a spinal cord injury almost 10 years ago and has been confined to a wheel chair since. He shared his miraculous story of tragedy and triumph with attendees. After his accident Francesco had lost the will to live. Having been a professional in the fashion industry he felt his life was over because he couldn’t walk. He was quickly proven wrong as a downpour of love and support rained over him giving him the courage to start his own business. In addition to not having the use of his legs his injury kept him from sweating which resulted in severe skin damage. When relief couldn’t be found in the traditional sense Clark worked with his father, a physician to develop “Clark Botanicals”, a skin care company committed to providing natural products that promote healthy skin. Through his adversity Clark found hope, and with it the power to heal others.
An inspirational story to say the least, Francesco Clark is but one of many who seek solace and support through the Reeve Foundation. In addition to fashion week and back to school, September is also “National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month”. Luckily giving isn’t limited to one month of the year. Just as paralyzed individuals and their families require daily support the foundation accepts donations year round. Please visit www.christopherreeve.org/ for more info, on how you can get involved.
