RBC Capital Markets & New York Rangers joined forces with nonprofit for milestone event, raising critical funds to support families battling pediatric cancer & serious illnesses;
Event featured tribute to hockey legend, New York Rangers Hall of Famer & event
co-founder Rod Gilbert; & honorary team jersey presentation to 10-year-old pediatric cancer survivor
NEW YORK, April 2, 2024 – New York Rangers legends and dozens of New Yorkers hit the ice to support families battling pediatric cancer and other serious illnesses during Ronald McDonald House New York’s (RMH-NY) 30th Annual Skate with the Greats on April 2, at the Lighthouse & Sky Rink at Pier 61, Chelsea Piers.
This year’s milestone event – whose lead sponsor was RBC Capital Markets – raised vital funds that will further RMH-NY's mission to advance health equity and provide critical care and support to vulnerable families within its House on East 73rd Street and through partnerships with hospitals across the five boroughs.
“This year’s Skate with the Greats was truly unforgettable, as we gathered in support of our families battling pediatric cancer and other serious illnesses and reflected on the legacy our dear friend Rod Gilbert started 30 years ago,” said Dr. Ruth C. Browne, president and CEO of Ronald McDonald House New York. “A firm believer in our mission, Rod was the heart and soul of this event for 27 years and helped raise millions to help our families. The funds raised during this year’s event will enable us to build on Rod’s legacy and ensure all families have access to the care they need during the most critical time of their lives. We are grateful for the continued support from RBC Capital Markets, the New York Rangers, and The Garden of Dreams Foundation, and to all who joined us for this year’s event.”
As a tribute to hockey legend and New York Rangers Hall of Famer #7, Rod Gilbert, RMH-NY kicked off this year’s event with the third annual Rod Gilbert Memorial Hockey Game, where New Yorkers laced up their skates to join Rangers icons on the ice. As part of a special intermission during the game, young skaters from Figure Skating in Harlem – a nonprofit that helps girls of color transform their lives and grow in confidence, leadership and academic achievement – delivered a showstopping performance.
Following the Rod Gilbert Memorial Hockey Game, New Yorkers gathered for a waterfront celebration at The Lighthouse. During the program, Chairman of RMH-NY’s Board of Directors Jim Flanagan welcomed attendees and New York Rangers alumnus Tom Laidlaw served as the event emcee. Global Head, Digital Solutions & Client Insights for Royal Bank of Canada and former RMH-NY Board Chairman Bobby Grubert and CEO of RBC Capital Markets Derek Neldner also shared remarks highlighting RBC Capital Markets’ long-standing commitment to RMH-NY.
“Ronald McDonald House New York’s commitment to serving and supporting children battling pediatric cancer and other serious illnesses mirrors our own mission, as we seek to not only improve our communities but ensure they flourish,” said Bobby Grubert, Managing Director. “RBC is proud to serve as the lead sponsor for Skate with the Great again this year and support Ronald McDonald House New York as the organization continues to extend its impact to families across New York City.”
During the event, RMH-NY Board Member Judy Gilbert and New York Rangers Hall of Famer Henrik Lundqvist presented an honorary team jersey to 10-year-old Sonya Luvis, who stayed at the organization’s House on East 73rd Street while undergoing treatment for neuroblastoma. In addition to providing the resources Sonya and her family needed, RMH-NY enabled Sonya to continue enjoying her favorite activities – including making new friends. After receiving her honorary jersey, Sonya and her mother, Maria, shared heartfelt remarks thanking RMH-NY for going above and beyond to support their family.
New York Rangers in attendance included Nick Fotiu, Adam Graves, Ron Greschner, Chris Kotsopolus, Tom Laidlaw, Henrik Lundqvist, Stéphane Matteau, Brian Mullen, Bernie Nicholls, Colton Orr, Pete Stemkowski, Steve Vickers, and Aaron Voros. Along with these iconic appearances, this year’s Skate with the Greats also featured ice skating, silent and live auctions, autographs, and more.
The participation of the New York Rangers is made possible through a partnership with the Garden of Dreams Foundation, a non-profit organization that works with MSG Entertainment, MSG Sports, and MSG Networks to bring life changing opportunities to young people in need. Major event sponsors included RBC Capital Markets, Bloomberg Philanthropies, GIII Apparel Group Ltd., American International Group, Inc,, PwC, the New York Rangers, the Garden of Dreams Foundation, and McDonald's Metro Owners Association.
RMH-NY supports families from NYC, across the U.S. and around the world in the fight against pediatric cancer and other serious illnesses through its House on East 73rd Street in Manhattan as well as in partnering NYC hospitals.
To learn more about the Skate with the Greats event or make a contribution, please visit: https://skate.rmh-newyork.org/.
