The Central Park Conservancy’s Women’s Committee launched its 2026 fundraising efforts with the annual Playground Partners Winter Luncheon. Playground Partners, a program of the Women’s Committee, ensures that Central Park’s cherished playgrounds meet the highest standards of safety, innovation, and creativity, remaining clean, welcoming, and inspiring spaces for all children. Generously supported by Presenting Sponsor Harry Winston, Inc., Premier Sponsor Jimmy Choo, and Prime Sponsor MILLY, the sold-out event raised $370,000 in support of the Park’s beloved play spaces.

Women’s Committee President, Tracey Huff, alongside Playground Partners Chair, Melanie McLennan, Vice Chairs, Kara Gerson and Lizzy Quick, and Luncheon Co-Chairs Allison Chiaramonte, Ainsley Earhardt, Simone Goer, Adrienne Israel, Joyce Kwok, and Whitney Rouse Teach, welcomed 400 guests, including Katherine Birch, Katherine Gage Boulud, Ubah Hassan, Gillian Hearst, Marcella Hymowitz, Bianca Jade, Dustee Jenkins, Marc Karimzadeh, Gillian Miniter, Margo Nederlander, Elyse Newhouse, Abby Phillip, Barbara Scott, Jenna Segal, Priya Shukla, Jessel Taank, and Gigi Stone Woods.

Set against the beautiful, wintery backdrop of Central Park’s sweeping landscapes, guests enjoyed an engaging conversation between special guests Martha Stewart, the iconic Founder of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, and her longtime friend, entrepreneur and former Editor-in-Chief of ELLE Decor, Whitney Robinson. The pair discussed the importance of caring for nature and the collective effort required to sustain it, along with Martha’s advice on living authentically as a successful businesswoman.

“The Winter Luncheon is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we all come together in support of Central Park and its 21 playgrounds," said Tracey Huff, Central Park Conservancy's Women's Committee President. She added, "Playgrounds are where childhood memories are made, and families gather. We are thankful to our sponsors, patrons, and friends who share our commitment to preserving this magic for generations to come.”

“Caring for Central Park’s playgrounds is an essential part of the Conservancy’s daily work,” said Betsy Smith, President and CEO of the Central Park Conservancy. “That work is generously supported by the Women’s Committee and its Playground Partners, whose leadership ensures these play spaces remain safe, well-maintained, and welcoming for families across New York City.”

Image credit: Michael Ostuni/PMc/Getty