HELP HEROES NIGHT: Celebrating 40 years of Building Better Lives
Honored five changemakers whose leadership and advocacy have driven progress and inspired hope across the housing and homelessness sectors.
HONOREES
- William Baldwin, acclaimed actor and outspoken advocate, whose tireless efforts to confront homelessness, fentanyl addiction, and mental health challenges have brought national attention to the urgent need for compassion, policy reform, and lasting solutions.
- Linda Goode Bryant, groundbreaking artist, activist, and founder of Project EATS, whose transformative work in urban agriculture and culinary arts has brought healing, dignity, and opportunity to HELP USA’s communities—nourishing both body and spirit.
- Arthur J. Mirante II, a visionary in real estate, cherished board member, and steadfast champion of HELP USA’s mission for over two decades, whose leadership has opened the doors to housing for thousands of families and individuals.
- Nicole Richards, a recognized expert in the homeless services field who has dedicated her career to advancing housing, stability, and opportunity for vulnerable communities—bringing HELP USA’s mission to life and transforming thousands of lives along the way.
- Savills, a trusted partner to the nonprofit community, whose strategic expertise in real estate has empowered mission-driven organizations to navigate complex transactions, expand their reach, and deepen their impact where it’s needed most. Accepted by Janet Woods, President, Savills North America
PRESENTERS
- Maria Cuomo Cole, a nationally respected advocate and award-winning filmmaker, whose decades of leadership as Chair Emeritus of HELP USA have shaped the organization’s vision—driving lasting change through advocacy, policy, and the power of film.
- Rob Robinson, a leading voice in the global housing justice movement, whose lived experience and unrelenting advocacy have helped amplify the voices of those impacted by homelessness and advanced the fight for dignity, equity, and human rights.
- Joslyn Carter, a career leader in New York City’s homeless services system, whose compassionate approach and policy leadership have strengthened shelter and housing programs—delivering greater dignity, equity, and care to tens of thousands of New Yorkers.
- Dan Lehman, a mission-driven nonprofit executive and champion for housing justice, who as President and CEO of HELP USA has ushered in a new era of innovation, expanding the organization’s impact and deepening its commitment to the fight against homelessness.
- Dr. Jeffrey A. Sachs, a founding board member of HELP USA and a healthcare policy expert, whose decades of visionary leadership have shaped the organization’s mission—bringing strategic insight, policy expertise, and unwavering dedication to the housing and homelessness crisis.
We proudly hosted HELP Heroes Night, the official kick-off of HELP USA’s 40th Anniversary Celebration. For four decades, HELP USA has been a source of hope for people facing homelessness—providing emergency shelter, permanent housing, and essential services that address both immediate needs and the root causes of homelessness.
On this special evening, we recognized the commitment of those who have stood with us in our mission to ensure everyone has a place to call home.
Over 300 leaders from business, government, philanthropy, and the community came together to celebrate the progress we’ve made and the lives we’ve touched since our founding in 1986.
This inspiring evening served not just as a reflection on our impact—but as a catalyst to expand it. Together, we renewed our commitment to empowering individuals and families to build better lives.
Thank you to all who supported the event and our ongoing work.