More than 600 supporters, physicians and business leaders gathered at the Brooklyn Museum on May 18 for The Brooklyn Hospital Center’s 2026 Founders Ball, a sold-out fundraiser recognizing the hospital’s role in caring for nearly 300,000 patients each year.
The event, themed “We’ve got you,” highlighted the range of services offered at the Downtown Brooklyn hospital, including emergency care, maternity services, surgery, rehabilitation and preventive treatment.
Guests attended an evening of dining, cocktails and live entertainment inside the museum, which featured spring-themed décor and floral installations. The celebration later shifted into a retro Coney Island-inspired after-party with carnival games, cotton candy, fortune tellers and live jazz.
The gala raised more than $1.43 million, surpassing last year’s total. Proceeds will support upgrades to medical equipment, renovations to hospital and outpatient facilities and expanded clinical programs.
The hospital honored two longtime leaders during the event. Robert DiGregorio, chief pharmacotherapy officer at The Brooklyn Hospital Center, received the Walter E. Reed Medal. Lizanne Fontaine, the hospital’s immediate past board chair, received the Founders Medal for years of leadership and service.
The Founders Ball is one of the hospital’s largest annual fundraising events and draws support from across Brooklyn’s medical and business communities. Funds raised through the gala will support ongoing improvements to patient care and hospital services across the borough.
The event reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to high-quality care in central Brooklyn. The philanthropic support continues to play a key role in funding services, strengthening facilities and supporting staff who serve diverse patient populations across the borough.
Community participation remains central to the success of the Founders Ball each year. The hospital will continue investing in programs that improve outcomes and expand care for Brooklyn residents. Officials thanked donors for their continued generosity and support throughout the year.
