Cynthia McFadden

The 2022 Heart of a Champion Award

The Heart of a Champion Award is given to an individual whose commitment to family and community transforms the landscape for underserved and marginalized populations. As Senior Legal and Investigative Correspondent at NBC News, Cynthia McFadden has been on the front lines for 30 years, covering a vast array of news events from the trial of O.J. Simpson to 9/11. Viewers who follow McFadden will understand why she is particularly proud of the work she has done covering humanitarian issues, with a focus on human rights abuses against women and children.

Michael W. Castellano

The 2022 Catherine White Achievement Award

The Catherine White Achievement Award is presented to a person whose career achievement benefits at-risk populations, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, children, and youth. Michael W. Castellano, co-owner of Staten Island's Supreme Italian Market, was inspired by a special bond with a cousin and an uncle, both on the autism spectrum. As a result, Castellano and his family have directed their passion and resources into helping people with special needs, channeling the success of their business into philanthropic endeavors, including the founding of a nonprofit called Billy's Cause, in memory of his uncle.

Douglas P. Catalano, Esq.

The 2022 HeartShare Visionary Award

The HeartShare Visionary Award is presented to a person whose work honors our past, shapes our present and transforms our future by building a foundation for success for HeartShare and the community it supports. Douglas P. Catalano, who began an impressive legal career as a law clerk to a federal judge and is now a partner with Clifton Budd & DeMaria, was also inspired by a family member who has autism.

Catalano is both a supporter and a contributor to HeartShare. “My wife Judi and I have a particular affection for the wonderful services that HeartShare provides,” he says. “We understand the challenges and we’re very appreciative of HeartShare’s aims and mission.”

Co-hosted by Rosanna Scotto and Jim Kerr, the 2022 HeartShare Spring Gala will be both in-person and virtual. Those who are feeling social can join HeartShare at New York’s magnificent—and spacious—Ziegfeld Ballroom, where Gala-goers will enjoy drinks, dinner and dessert at a dazzling red-carpet affair. Those who are more into a long-distance relationship right now can join the Gala festivities virtually via a privatelink while enjoying a very special delivery of a gourmet basket.

About HeartShare Human Services of New York

Founded in 1914, HeartShare is New York’s premier nonprofit dedicated to New York’s most vulnerable, empowering individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities to reach their full potential through education, life skills and vocational training, as well as residential, recreational, family support and long-term therapy services.