Highlights from Together We Thrive: 2025 Benefit for NYC Youth

It was an incredible night at our annual fall benefit, Together We Thrive!   

We heard from former Door member Kelsie Minaya, who shared the life-changing impact The Door care model has had on her.  

"When I first walked through The Door, I felt different: I was seen. The staff didn’t just hand me a flyer and send me on my way. They followed up, they checked in, and they made sure I had what I needed to move forward and a plan on how to get there, “ said Kelsie. 

Kelsey Louie, Chief Executive Officer of The Door and Broome Street Academy (BSA), spoke about how The Door has been able to go fast and far—through our partners, supporters, and champions:  

"So many of our members are navigating overlapping crises – in mental health, housing, education, and identity. The pressures they face are immense, and the systems meant to support them are stretched thin. At The Door and BSA, we meet those challenges head–on with connection, opportunity, and community. 

We provide connections when the world feels isolating...We create opportunities when the system closes its doors." 

Actor and Activist Javier Muñoz, who received the Change Maker Award, spoke about the revolutionary impact of nurturing, protecting, and uplifting the next generation of young people, and the power of community is paramount. 

The inspiring stories of Door community members like Kelsie are a living reminder to us of why The Door and BSA invest in the futures of our young people.

Thank you to Bashel Lewis for amazing hosting and Kimberly Pirtle for facilitating the live auction.  

To date, our benefit has raised more than $1.5 million. This funding will directly impact the ongoing stories of thousands of young people. 
 
The celebration continues through our Charitybuzz auction, featuring another incredible villa travel experience, exceptional wine packages, and an exclusive theater experience with Door alum, Lorna Courtney, who shared a special video message during the Benefit. 

If you were unable to attend or have yet to donate, you can still show your support here.  

Check out the video recap and the photos below to relive the night.