WhyHunger’s 50th Chapin Awards Gala in NYC

Jun 11

Jun 11 WhyHunger’s 50th Chapin Awards Gala in NYC

On June 4, 2025, WhyHunger celebrated its 50th anniversary with a powerful and inspiring evening at the iconic Frederick P. Rose Hall at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. The annual Chapin Awards Gala brought together artists, activists, philanthropists, and community leaders to honor individuals who have used their platforms to fight hunger and promote social justice.

The evening’s honorees included Laura Coates, CNN anchor and legal analyst, who received the inaugural Bill Ayres Social Justice Award for her tireless advocacy for democracy, racial equity, and marginalized communities. In an emotional acceptance speech, Coates reflected on her sense of purpose, saying, “They say there are two great days in a person’s life—when you’re born, and when you find out why. For me, I know my why.”

Legendary rock duo Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo were also recognized with the ASCAP Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award, honoring their decades-long commitment to activism and social change. The GRAMMY-winning pair performed a moving rendition of Harry Chapin’s “Shooting Star” followed by their iconic hit “Love Is a Battlefield,” reminding the audience of music’s power to unify and inspire. “Food is love, and love always wins,” they shared from the stage.

The night’s performances were as electric as they were heartfelt, featuring appearances by The Fab Faux (led by Will Lee), Willie Nile, Will Calhoun, Tash Neal, Jen Chapin, and The Chapin Sisters. Together, they celebrated the legacy of Harry Chapin, WhyHunger co-founder and the original force behind the organization’s artist-driven mission.

In addition to the awards and performances, guests were treated to a cocktail reception, an elegant dinner, and a program that reinforced the organization’s mission to tackle hunger at its root by investing in community-led solutions. This year’s gala raised over $600,000 in support of WhyHunger’s work—funds that will directly benefit programs addressing food insecurity and systemic inequities around the world.

Over the past three years alone, WhyHunger has connected more than 3.3 million people to nutritious food and invested over $5.1 million into grassroots organizations building sustainable food systems.

As the evening came to a close, it was clear the gala was more than a celebration—it was a reaffirmation of purpose. From stirring speeches to unforgettable music, the 50th Annual Chapin Awards served as both tribute and call to action, continuing WhyHunger’s legacy of justice, dignity, and community.

🔗 To support WhyHunger or learn more about their work, visit whyhunger.org.