Media Contact: Zaide Manzur
(646) 627-9328 | media.gny@redcross.org
GREENWICH, CONN., February 17, 2026 – The American Red Cross Metro New York North Chapter will commemorate the 40th anniversary of its signature fundraiser, the Ruby Red & White Ball, on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Riverside Yacht Club, 102 Club Road, Riverside, CT. Guests will enjoy a 6:00 p.m. cocktail reception and silent auction, followed by dinner, program, live auction, and dancing.
Adding to the excitement, guests will be treated to a special live performance by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, Sophie B. Hawkins.
“We are thrilled to celebrate four decades of this incredible tradition and important fundraiser,” said Stephanie Dunn Ashley, CEO of the American Red Cross Metro New York North Chapter. “The Ruby Red & White Ball brings together community leaders and supporters to honor inspiring individuals who align with the mission, vision and values and raise vital funds to help the American Red Cross deliver care and comfort when disaster strikes.”
Introducing the 2026 Honorees:
Corporate Leadership Award: Crabtree Motor Group and the Crabtree Family
The American Red Cross is honored to present the 2026 Corporate Leadership Award to the Crabtree Family and Crabtree Motor Group, a family-owned and operated network of dealerships with deep roots across Connecticut. With locations in Milford, Watertown, Middlebury, and East Haven, Crabtree Motor Group has earned a reputation for excellence in automotive sales and service, offering one of the largest new and pre-owned inventories in the state. As they proudly say, “You don’t just get a better deal, you get a better dealership.”
Beyond their business success, the Crabtree Family is distinguished by their unwavering commitment to community. Their support extends far beyond their showroom doors, strengthening neighborhoods from Greenwich to Greater New Haven and throughout the region. Whether partnering with local nonprofits, investing in youth programs, or stepping forward during emergencies, the Crabtree Family consistently demonstrates a deep sense of responsibility to the communities they serve—leading with generosity, compassion, and a genuine dedication to helping their neighbors thrive.
Exceptional Service Award: Admiral Lisa M. Franchetti, United States Navy (Retired)
A native of Pittsford, New York, Admiral Lisa M. Franchetti retired in 2025 after nearly 40 years of dedicated service to the Navy and the Nation. She most recently served as the 33rd Chief of Naval Operations and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, advising senior leaders on national security matters and ensuring the readiness of more than 600,000 Sailors and Civilians worldwide. A pioneer for women in the military, she was among the first to serve on combatant ships after the repeal of the Combat Exclusion Act and went on to command at every level, including destroyers, carrier strike groups, U.S. SIXTH Fleet, and NATO forces.
Throughout her career, Admiral Franchetti focused on warfighting, warfighters, and building the foundation to support both. She drove efforts to grow the Navy’s fleet, integrate advanced technologies, modernize infrastructure, and improve quality of life for service members and their families. Her visionary leadership and extraordinary service to our nation make her a truly deserving recipient of the Exceptional Service Award.
Humanitarian Award: Giovanna Miller
For more than 15 years, Giovanna Miller has been a passionate leader and advocate for the American Red Cross. As board chair of the Metro New York North Chapter for seven years, she helped raise nearly $18 million and spearheaded initiatives that strengthened the chapter’s impact. Giovanna’s commitment to the Red Cross mission runs deep, she co-chaired the PreResponder campaign, securing $3 million to renovate headquarters and establish a fixed blood center, and has championed Service to the Armed Forces through hands-on support for military families both locally and abroad.
A proud member of the Tiffany Circle, Giovanna has hosted milestone events, including the celebration of 100 years of the Red Cross in Greenwich, and served on the SAF/IS National Advisory Committee. Her generosity of time, talent, and leadership has earned her the respect of peers and strengthened partnerships across the region and beyond. As the 2026 Humanitarian Honoree, Giovanna continues to inspire and uplift the mission she has championed for so many years.
As of February 17, 2026, Sponsors and Patrons include:
This year, our Ball Committee Co-Chairs are Tania Fabiani, Sophie Bosch de Hood and William Hood. Our Junior Committee Co-Chairs are Katie Crabtree, Maggie Crabtree and Charlotte Morningstar.
For a full list of committee members and to purchase tickets, tables, and more visit http://www.redcross.org/mnynball.
About the American Red Cross Metro New York North Chapter
The American Red Cross Metro New York North Chapter serves the residents of Westchester and Rockland counties in New York, Greenwich, Conn., and the US Military Academy at West Point. Powered by its volunteer workforce and the generosity of the American public, the Red Cross helps to prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies big and small. We also collect lifesaving blood; teach important skills that save lives; and support veterans, military members and their families. For more information, visit www.redcross.org/metronyn.
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