Inside Russell Simmons’ 4th Annual Rush HeARTS Education Luncheon

For the fourth consecutive year the Rush HeARTS Education Luncheon was a philanthropic success. New York power players gathered together to support a good cause at the grand and stunning Plaza Hotel. The incredible event raised funds for Rush’s Education programs for New York City’s inner city youth.

Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation has provided a platform to reach and inspire students for a remarkable 21 years. Brothers Russell, Danny and Joseph “Rev. Run” Simmons founded the organization 1995. They continue to offer positive alternatives for youth displaying high-risk behaviors by providing arts education programs in public schools. This programming gives students the resources to express themselves in a healthy way. The afterschool and weekend programs keep kids out of trouble and busy doing something creative. In addition to the 3,000 students served annually in its education programs, each year Rush exhibits the work of over 100 emerging and community-based artists in its gallery spaces in Chelsea, Manhattan (Rush Arts Gallery) and Clinton Hill, Brooklyn (Corridor Gallery).

There to support this important cause were many haute guests. This year the luncheon honored superstars Cyndi Lauper, Charles Best, Craig Newmark and Guy Vickers. It wouldn’t have been complete without the talented host Tamara Tunie, who presented special performances by the likes of young and mega-talented Bobbi MacKenzie.

The Rush HeARTS Education Luncheon was an event that no attendee will forget. Beyond being able to impact the lives of our city’s students, it was also a wonderful time. It is always great to see celebrities and people of power using their platforms to help those less fortunate. We can’t wait to see their reach grow and their students prosper!