Brooklyn Nonprofit Invites Community To Black-Tie Event

BROOKLYN, NY— More than six decades after neighbors organized to fight housing disinvestment in Central Brooklyn, IMPACCT Brooklyn will gather supporters under one roof to fund its next chapter.

The nonprofit will host its 2026 Emerald Ball on Thursday from 6 to 10 p.m. at Hotel Indigo Williamsburg. The black-tie fundraiser marks 62 years since the organization began building and preserving affordable housing, counseling tenants and homeowners, and backing small businesses across Brooklyn.

Since 1964, IMPACCT Brooklyn has developed and restored housing units, provided foreclosure prevention services and led tenant-rights workshops. Staff members assist residents with housing lottery applications and guide first-time buyers through the purchase process. The organization also supports local entrepreneurs with lease negotiations, financial counseling and conflict mediation.

“The Emerald Ball is more than just a fundraising event; it is a vital reflection of IMPACCT Brooklyn’s core values: quality, transparency, consistency, and partnership,” Jamal C. Robinson, executive director of IMPACCT Brooklyn, said. “At its heart, the Ball serves as a powerful catalyst to ignite possibility within the communities we serve, demonstrating the profound potential that exists when people are empowered and supported.”

The evening will include a cocktail reception, plated dinner and live auction. Organizers scheduled musical performances by The Soapbox Presents and Damien Sneed. New York Attorney General Letitia James is set to deliver remarks.

IMPACCT Brooklyn will honor three leaders during the program. Valerie White, senior executive director of LISC NY, will receive the Community Builder Award for her work in housing preservation. Entrepreneur and strategist Brandon J. Hurst will receive the Local Business Trailblazer Award. Pat Julien, director of the Homeowner Department at IMPACCT Brooklyn, will receive the Shirley Chisholm Award.

Proceeds will fund the organization’s housing development, homeowner services and economic empowerment initiatives in neighborhoods where residents continue to face rising rents and mounting housing pressures.

Purchase tickets for general admission or to become a sponsor.