Irvington-based Abbott House, a nonprofit serving children, families, and adults with complex needs throughout the Hudson Valley and New York metropolitan area, will hold its 2026 Loving Arms Awards and Dinner Dance on Tuesday, Oct. 27, at Westchester Country Club in Rye. The evening will recognize Emily Rockefeller of Tarrytown with the Dignity of Family Life Award and Brionna Sawyer of Albany with the Dr. Joseph M. Pastore, Jr. Difference-Maker Award.
“Emily Rockefeller and Brionna Sawyer each reflect the heart of Abbott House in deeply meaningful ways,” said Justine Christakos, LMSW, President and CEO of Abbott House. “Emily’s vision and commitment to community have opened new pathways for healing through nature, helping children discover resilience, joy, and purpose by caring for honeybees. Brionna’s journey reflects that same spirit of strength and possibility, reminding us how courage, perseverance, and the confidence to use one’s voice can inspire others and create lasting change.”
“Every child deserves experiences that spark curiosity and foster a sense of belonging,” said Emily Rockefeller. “The Flower to Hive program gives children who have suffered deep trauma a chance to have fun in nature, learn about the extraordinary adaptability of honeybees, and discover their own resilience. Seeing so many people come together to make this program possible is a beautiful reminder of what can happen when a community cares.”
The evening will be hosted by Blaise Gomez, a lead reporter for News 12 Hudson Valley and a three-time Emmy nominee. Guests will enjoy cocktails, a seated dinner, and dancing to the Pete Malinverni Trio, performing standards and jazz favorites from the Great American Songbook. The program will include a silent auction, “Dream Vacation” raffle, and “Lift of Love” paddle raise led by Sotheby’s auctioneer Emily Nice. All proceeds benefit Abbott House’s programs.
Dignity of Family Life Awardee
Emily Rockefeller is dedicated to turning ideas into meaningful action. Her passion for projects that connect people, spark curiosity, and grow into something larger helped bring Abbott House’s first-ever Flower to Hive honeybee program to life. Through hands-on experiences in nature, children are discovering new ways to understand resilience, healing, and their own journeys. The program, created in partnership with Lyndhurst, also highlights the interconnectedness of caring for children, protecting honeybees, and building a healthier, more compassionate world.
Dr. Joseph M. Pastore, Jr. Difference-Maker Awardee
Brionna Sawyer, who entered foster care at age nine, is a graduate of White Plains High School and is pursuing a degree in Social Welfare at SUNY Albany. Shaped by her experiences and her connection to Abbott House, she is on a path to becoming a social worker and is committed to using her voice, education, and advocacy to support others.
