Donna Karan Speaks At Central Park Conservancy’s Fall Luncheon in NYC

The Central Park Conservancy had their annual Fall Luncheon at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel last week with a well appointed group of hosts including Donna Karan and Linda Wells, the founding editor-in-chief from Allure magazine. LIfe-long New Yorker, Donna Karan spoke about her new memoir as guests enjoyed  lunch with views of Central Park. The event raised over $200,000 for the organization which supports Central Park.

” The mission of Central Park Conservancy is to restore, manage and enhance Central Park in partnership with the public, for the enjoyment of present and future generations. A private not-for-profit organization founded in 1980 the Conservancy provides 75 percent of Central Park’s $65 million dollar expense budget and is responcible for all basic care of the park.” www.centralparknyc.org

The luncheon was supported by the legendary fifth Avenue jeweler, Van Cleef & Arpels for the fifth year.

Karen T. May is the President of the women’s committee with Neli Kleinschmidt, Kristy Korngold and Sharon Teles as Co-Chairmen. Notable attendees were, Kara Ross, Martha Stewart, Barbara Cirkva Schumacher, Fe Fendi, and Marcia Mishaan to name a few.

The committee was founded in 1983 by four visionary women. The organization has been instrumental in increasing awareness and raising funds for many Central Park projects including the reconstruction of the Dana Discovery Center, the renovation of Safari Playground and the re-creation of the Urns at Bow Bridge.

The Women’s committee hosts four charitable events including, the Frederick Law Olmsted Awards Luncheon, the Women’s Committee Fall Luncheon, The Playground Partners Winter Luncheon and the Annual Family Party. They are also responsible for the management of many parkwide programs including: Adopt-ABench, Tree Trust, Playground Partners, Daffodiils and Tulips Donations, Perimeter Association, Conservancy Docents and Olmsted Visionaries.