In a remarkable evening of celebration and philanthropy, the City Parks Foundation hosted its 2025 Dinner & Dance Party Benefit on Thursday night, honoring the multifaceted artist Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson. The event, held at Central Park’s iconic SummerStage venue, successfully raised nearly $1 million to support the foundation’s free arts, sports, environmental education, and community-building programs across New York City’s five boroughs.
Questlove, a Grammy and Oscar-winning drummer, filmmaker, author, DJ, and producer, received the prestigious Icon Award for his significant contributions to the artistic and cultural landscape of New York City. During his acceptance speech, he reminisced about attending SummerStage concerts as a young fan, expressing his dream of performing there one day—an aspiration that was recently realized when The Roots played at the venue just two months prior. In a humorous slip, the proud Philadelphia native referred to New York as his “hometown,” eliciting laughter from the audience.
The evening also recognized Brooklyn Sports and Entertainment with the People & Parks Award for their commitment to enhancing the health, education, and well-being of communities through philanthropic initiatives. The award was presented to them for their invaluable contributions to neighborhood programs that uplift local residents.
Questlove’s award was presented by renowned New York DJ and producer Stretch Armstrong, who praised the artist’s profound influence across multiple cultural realms, stating, “The cultural output he [Questlove] is responsible for is astounding. It’s hard to find an area of culture that this man hasn’t made his mark on.”
The night culminated with a lively DJ set by Questlove, who energized the dance floor with an eclectic mix of pop, hip-hop, R&B, and rock classics, along with deep cuts that kept guests moving. Additionally, the first-ever Young Philanthropists After Party featured a silent disco, adding a unique flair to the celebration.
Chaired by Angela Barkan, Joe Killian, Roland Merchant, and Greg Williamson, the City Parks Foundation’s 2025 Benefit showcased not just the spirit of giving but also the importance of community engagement through arts and culture.
This event not only celebrates the achievements of Questlove but also underscores the vital role that public parks and community programs play in enriching the lives of New Yorkers.
For more updates on celebrity events and philanthropic efforts in the entertainment industry, visit hiphopraisedmetheblog.com!
