SOMERS, N.Y. - The Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester welcomed community leaders, philanthropists, corporate partners, and supporters to its annual gala, an “inspiring evening dedicated to empowering local youth and strengthening the community.”
One of two outstanding champions of community service and leadership, Johannah Townsend of Somers, received the Humanitarian Award, the club’s highest honor, in recognition of her dedication to improving the lives of others.
The other honoree, Traub Lieberman Straus & Shrewsberry LLP, a law firm based in White Plains, was presented with the John Beach Award for its commitment to strengthening communities and supporting youth initiatives.
The event, Fantastic Voyage into the Future, took place on June 5 and was held at the Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase. It raised $715,000.
Guests enjoyed an engaging program, community celebration, and online auction, all focused on “ensuring that young people have access to safe spaces, academic support, mentorship, leadership development, and wellness resources,” the Mount Kisco-based nonprofit said.
A ‘MEANINGFUL HOME’
According to the Townsend’s bio, her commitment to helping young people didn’t start at the club but has “found its most meaningful home there.”
“Throughout her career and community leadership, Johannah has been guided by a belief that people are an organization’s greatest asset,” it said.
After serving for five years as associate dean of admissions at Wesleyan University, Townsend spent 14 years in HR leadership at IBM, ultimately leading the company’s Global Multicultural and Women’s Initiatives.
Her volunteer journey began more than 30 years ago as a Wesleyan alumni volunteer --supporting Admissions, Reunions, and Faculty Awards — a tradition she still cherishes today, her bio said.
While living in Denmark, she served for five years as the elected board chair of the Copenhagen International School, leading a “successful capital campaign to build a new environmentally sustainable campus that nearly doubled the school’s enrollment,” it said.
After returning to Somers, Townsend helped introduce the International Baccalaureate program at the high school and dedicated many years to the Marlins Swim Team and the Northern Westchester Swim Conference.
Since joining the Board of Directors of the Boys & Girls Club in 2016, she has contributed to strategic planning, programming, and board development, while also mentoring club members through the Youth of the Year and College Quest programs, the BGCNW said.
“Her mentorship has helped Club kids see great possibilities for their futures -- and the confidence to pursue them,” it added.
‘SPIRIT OF GIVING’
Traub Lieberman Straus & Shrewsberry LLP was the recipient of the John Beach Award, which is named for one of the BGCNW’s foremost supporters and someone who “truly exemplified the spirit of giving,” board member John Beach.
Beach passed away in 2005 at the age of 94. The award was created in 1995 and is given to an individual, business, or organization for outstanding support of the club.
According to the club, Traub Lieberman was founded 30 years ago and is now a nationally recognized law firm specializing in the insurance industry.
Over the years, it has been a “dedicated” partner to the BGCNW through the provision of pro bono legal services and as a participant in and contributor to fundraising efforts.
Traub Lieberman partner and co-chair Lisa Shrewsberry served on the organization’s board of directors from 2011 to 2021 and as its vice president from 2014 to 2017.
‘BRIGHTER FUTURES’
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us, donated, sponsored the event, and participated in the auction,” said Alyzza Ozer, the club’s CEO. “The generosity of our community helps us continue providing critical services to young people and families who rely on the club every day. Together, we are creating brighter futures for the next generation.”
Money raised through the gala and the BGCNW’s broader 2026 campaign will support essential programs such as after-school academic enrichment and tutoring; mental health and wellness resources; leadership and career readiness programs; safe, structured environments during high-risk hours; and access to meals and supportive mentorship.
TO HELP
Folks interested in supporting the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester can still contribute to the 2026 campaign or learn more about the organization's work by visiting the BGCNW’s website, www.bgcnw.com.
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