#United States #New York City #Generosity #Town & Country #Philanthropy Summit

Celebrating Generosity: Town & Country's 13th Annual Philanthropy Summit

On October 27, 2026, Town & Country hosted its 13th annual Philanthropy Summit at the iconic Hearst Tower in New York City. This year’s theme, "Thinking BIG: How to Make Your Philanthropy Truly Transformational," reflected the magazine's long-standing commitment to celebrating and promoting philanthropy, especially as it marks its monumental 180th anniversary.

A Gathering of Influential Voices

The event brought together an impressive lineup of speakers and honorees, including renowned figures from various fields. Among the notable attendees were fashion mogul Tory Burch, celebrated musician Ciara, NFL champion Russell Wilson, activist and actor Andrew Shue, and television host Gayle King. This convergence of influential personalities aimed to foster meaningful discussions surrounding the role of philanthropy in shaping a better future.

Stellene Volandes, Editor-in-Chief of Town & Country, served as the host for the day, guiding attendees through a series of insightful panels and conversations. The summit's format provided an opportunity for rich dialogue about the impact of generosity and the various ways individuals can contribute to their communities.

Honoring Excellence in Philanthropy

A highlight of the summit was the inaugural Philanthropists of the Year Awards, which recognized individuals and organizations dedicated to making a positive difference. The prestigious awards were presented to:

• - Tory Burch: Acknowledged for her philanthropic efforts through the Tory Burch Foundation.
• - Ciara and Russell Wilson: Celebrated for their advocacy and charitable contributions to various causes.
• - Aerin Lauder, alongside The Met Visionaries, a group dedicated to enriching cultural experiences through their support.
• - Andrew Shue: Honored for his dedicated work with The Forum and its mission to empower communities.

In addition to these honorees, Town & Country recognized organizations such as CityMeals on Wheels and FreeFrom, acknowledging their critical contributions to social welfare. Presenters including Beth Shapiro and Sonya Passi underscored the importance of community-driven initiatives.

Engaging Discussions and Transformative Ideas

Throughout the day, discussions revolved around significant themes in philanthropy, such as transformational giving, matching vision with execution, and inspiring future generations of philanthropists. Esteemed panelists included Dr. Samantha Boardman, Sheila Kelly, and Whitney W. Donhauser, who shared their insights on how philanthropy can adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Nate Burleson and Ciara also engaged in an inspiring dialogue about their motivations as philanthropists and the importance of encouraging young citizens to take an active role in community service and advocacy.

A Philanthropy Issue Like No Other

The summit also coincided with the release of the November 2026 Philanthropy Issue of Town & Country, available on newsstands and online on November 3. This issue features four different covers showcasing the distinguished individuals who are leading the philanthropic charge today. The publication continues to document the stories and contributions of those committed to giving back to their communities and reshaping societal norms.

Conclusion

Town & Country's 13th Annual Philanthropy Summit exemplifies the magazine's dedication to celebrating acts of generosity and the transformative power of giving. By bringing together leading voices in philanthropy, the summit serves as a platform for innovative ideas and collaborative efforts aimed at building a brighter future for all. As Town & Country looks ahead, it remains committed to illuminating the lives of those who play a pivotal role in the philanthropic landscape.