AmeriCares CEO Honored at 26th Annual Airlift Benefit

Gala raises $1.7 million for aid programs worldwide

Stamford, Conn. – Oct. 7, 2013 – The 26th annual AmeriCares Airlift Benefit on October 5 raised $1.7 million for the disaster relief and global health organization’s aid programs worldwide. Departing AmeriCares President and CEO Curt Welling was honored for his 11 years at the helm of the Stamford-based nonprofit organization. During his tenure, Curt guided the organization in delivering more than $9 billion in medical aid and disaster relief around the world, enabling millions of people to live longer, healthier lives. Board Chairman Dean Maglaris presented Welling with the Starfish Humanitarian Award for his leadership and commitment – only the third time the honor has been bestowed since AmeriCares was founded in 1982.

More than 850 guests packed the Panorama Hangar at Westchester County Airport for the gala hosted by ABC News Anchor Bob Woodruff. Guests enjoyed dancing to the sounds of Latin music sensation Suavemente and enjoyed a performance by Amanda Brown of the hit NBC show “The Voice.” The event culminated with 90 guests departing on a chartered plane for a 24-hour whirlwind tour of the hospitals, clinics and homes for children AmeriCares supports in El Salvador.