By Kay‑Lin Richardson

June 8, 2026: With nearly 200 registrants, the event brought a vibrant crowd to the Bronxville Field Club for Gramatan Village’s most successful benefit to date, celebrating the organization’s 20th Anniversary.

The evening—styled with a nod to the glamour and sparkle of the 1920s—honored two decades of helping older adults remain independent, connected, and supported in their own homes. Members, volunteers, sponsors, and community leaders gathered for a night of music, community spirit, and philanthropy.

The Bronxville Field Club shimmered with black‑and‑gold décor befitting the milestone celebration. Striking floral arrangements from Mrs. Morgan’s Flower Shop and a lively photo booth sponsored by Preferred Certified Home Care in Westchester, set before a custom gold‑and‑black backdrop designed by Benefit Co‑Chair Carolyn Mattson, added to the festive atmosphere.

Early in the evening, student volunteers—styled in a playful nod to classic 1920s cigarette girls and boys—circulated the room encouraging guests to participate in raffle sales and silent bidding. As the celebration drew to a close, guests enjoyed “Sweet Treats,” including chocolate‑covered pretzel rods sponsored by Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP, providing a delightful finale to the night. Jazz vocalist Grace Radonis performed throughout the evening, adding warmth and elegance reminiscent of a vintage supper‑club soirée.

The program also offered a moment to reflect on Gramatan Village’s remarkable journey. Founded in 2006 by John Corry, Rockhill Gray, and Christina “Tina” Staudt, the organization emerged from a shared recognition that many older adults wished to remain in their homes but needed stronger social connections and practical support to do so. What began as a small group of neighbors has grown into a vibrant, intergenerational network serving Bronxville, Eastchester, Mount Vernon, Tuckahoe, Yonkers and beyond.

In her remarks, Staudt recalled the founders’ belief that aging at home should not mean aging alone. She also praised Executive Director Grace Gilmer for expanding that vision, engaging caregivers, families, volunteers, and young people through programs that strengthen community ties while keeping older adults at the heart of the mission.

A highlight of the evening was the recognition of three distinguished honorees whose contributions have strengthened both Gramatan Village and the broader community:

-Christina “Tina” Staudt, Founder and Advisory Council Chair, honored for her vision and leadership over the past twenty years.

-Amy Brown, longtime community volunteer, recognized for her exceptional service across numerous local organizations.

-Reid Craig, Student Volunteer of the Year, celebrated for his dedication to older adults through the Techy Teens program.

Guests enjoyed a robust silent auction and raffle featuring exclusive experiences and unique items. Highlights included luxury suite tickets to the New York Mets vs. Boston Red Sox, a signed Jalen Brunson basketball, a signed Vladislav Gavrikov hockey stick, a North Fork Wine Country getaway, and a Mah Jong party for 20. Raffle prizes ranged from an evening at American Ballet Theatre to a Bloomingdale’s styling experience, a Depot Dave’s cooking class, and a fitness and wellness package featuring SoulCycle and Hot Phiit.

Looking Ahead: New Programming for the “Sandwich Generation”

During the program, Executive Director Grace Gilmer shared a brief preview of Gramatan Village’s next chapter. She noted that the organization is increasingly hearing from adults who are caring for both children and aging parents—the “sandwich generation”—and highlighted plans to develop new programming and resources tailored to their needs.

Gilmer also announced that honoree Amy Brown has generously committed seed funding to help launch this initiative. Her support will allow Gramatan Village to begin exploring new ways to guide and assist caregivers navigating the complexities of supporting aging loved ones.

Gramatan Village extends heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated volunteers who brought this memorable evening to life. Led by Gina Nigido‑Lander, the Event Committee included Kathryn Creux, Meghan Davis, Sheridan Denfield, Lauren Gautier, Rob Kennedy, Seong Kim, Alanna Leavell, Cara Martin‑Rulli, Carolyn Mattson, Kay‑Lin Richardson, and Veronica Witty. Special thanks also go to staff members Bella Ornaf, Kwee Huang, and Ellen Rice for their daily dedication and compassion.

Funds raised will support Gramatan Village’s essential programs and services, including volunteer support, social and educational programming, technology assistance, caregiver resources, transportation support, and other initiatives that help older adults remain independent, engaged, and connected.

Gramatan Village also receives ongoing support from The Community Fund and the Field Hall Foundation, whose partnership strengthens the organization’s ability to serve older adults throughout the year.

The event’s success was made possible through the generosity of sponsors, donors, volunteers, committee members, and attendees whose support ensures that older adults can continue aging in place with dignity and community.

As Gramatan Village enters its third decade, it remains steadfast in its mission and welcomes new members, volunteers, donors, and partners who share its commitment to supporting older adults.

For more information about membership, volunteer opportunities, or ways to support Gramatan Village, visit www.gramatanvillage.org.

2026 Spring Into Summer Benefit Sponsors

Gold Sponsors: LaGravinese Jewelers, New York‑Presbyterian Westchester

Silver Sponsors: Alvita Care, Apple Bank, Oasis Senior Advisors – Susan and Paul Doyle, Preferred Certified Home Care in Westchester, Sprain Brook Manor

Bronze Sponsors: Admiral Real Estate Services, Americare, Bronxville Dental Care – Jenny A. Kanganis DDS, Bronxville Natural Market, Caring People, Dumont Center, Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP, Griffin, Coogan, Sulzer & Horgan, P.C., Houlihan Lawrence – Daria Kelty, Lawrence Community Health Services, Monarch Communities, Mrs. Morgan’s Flower Shop, Scarborough Fair Catering, Scalini Osteria, Underhills Crossing

Raffle Donors & Event Supporters: Alliance Building Services, Bakeville Treats, Bloomingdale’s, Bronxville Wines and Spirits, Depot Dave Catering, Hot Phiit, Il Bacio Trattoria, La Chitarra Pasta & Wine, Leavell Family, LuleVere Florist, Madison Square Garden, NY Land Services, Posh Beauty Boutique, SoulCycle, Village Design Studio & Moms 4 Maj