The Friends of the Children – New York 2026 Step Up Gala will be a meaningful evening dedicated to celebrating and supporting the organization’s mission to create life-changing opportunities for the children and families it serves. Held on April 27, 2026, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, the gala will highlight the impact of Friends of the Children – New York, the only organization in the country that employs full-time, professional mentors—known as Friends—who walk alongside youth and their families for 12+ years, no matter what. Hosted by comedian and television personality Seth Meyers, the event will offer guests the chance to invest in this transformative work while enjoying an inspiring program in an iconic setting. The evening will begin with a 6:30 PM cocktail hour, followed by dinner at 7:30 PM, with guests encouraged to attend in business or cocktail attire.