Gala Raises Over $600,000 to Kick Off New Fueling Growth, Redefining Possible Campaign
On Monday, May 19, Achilles International raised over $600,000 at its 2025 Gala, Redefining Possible: An Evening for Achilles International, at Guastavino’s in New York City. Nearly 300 supporters gathered to celebrate and raise critical funds to help Achilles break down barriers to the sport of running for people with disabilities. Achilles thanks its Gold sponsors, including the Perry & Donna Golkin Family Foundation, PPC Enterprises, Rebecca and Bennett Lindenbaum, and TD Bank.
Achilles Board Co-Chair Donna Golkin received the Llura Gund Freedom to Fly Award. The award was handcrafted by supporter and sculptor, Gordon Gund, who is blind, in honor of his late wife Lulie. It honors the legacy of lifting others up and allowing them to live independently.
Master Sergeant Cedric King, Achilles Freedom Team athlete and Board Member, was presented with the Achilles Spirit Award, by friend and marathon volunteer guide Joe Chura. Cedric was surprised via a heartfelt video message from longtime Achilles Freedom Team friend and advocate Jon Stewart.
The evening also featured a special virtual message from best selling author and host of The Mel Robbins Podcast, Mel Robbins. President and CEO Emily Glasser announced the launch of the Campaign for Achilles: Fueling Growth, Redefining Possible. Thanks to the generosity of our community and the momentum of the Gala, the campaign has already raised over $19 million toward its $25 million goal.
The evening’s program was emceed by Tiki Barber, former New York Giants running back, author, and entrepreneur, who brought warmth and energy to the stage as he shared his personal stories of running as an Achilles guide.
Throughout the evening, athletes shared powerful testimonials about their journeys with Achilles and the profound impact of having a supportive, empowering community by their side.
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