Inspired By

At Walker Hotels, we believe in the power of community and the impact of giving back. This February, we’re highlighting local charities that are making a difference in New York City. Whether it’s empowering young chefs, supporting families in need, or fostering creativity in children, these organizations are shaping brighter futures for those who call this city home.

We’re proud to partner with Sprouts, a nonprofit that provides culinary training and job placement for young adults facing hardship. Through mentorship with professional chefs, participants (ages 18-28) develop the skills and confidence needed for culinary careers. Our connection with Sprouts began with Chef Chris Zabita and Chef Manny Gonzalez, who led an early class on healthy cooking for city youth. “I still keep a signed menu from that class in my office as a tribute to their impact. When Sprouts returned to NYC last year with a mentorship-focused program, we knew we had to be involved,” shares Chef Nick of Society Cafe.

At Society Cafe, we mentor aspiring chefs through hands-on kitchen training, teamwork development, and weekly farmers market visits to deepen their understanding of food sourcing. We were honored to participate in Sprouts’ first charity dinner and have since mentored three individuals, with a fourth joining this spring. Chef Nick also proudly serves on Sprouts’ event and advisory committee, representing both Society Cafe and Walker Hotels.

Founded in 2001 by Jessica Seinfeld, Good+ Foundation is a leading nonprofit dedicated to breaking the cycle of multi-generational poverty by pairing essential goods with critical services for families in need. This past December, Walker Hotel Greenwich Village had the honor of partnering with Good+ for Walker’s Winter Wishes, a festive holiday event that brought together guests, families, and the local community for an evening of giving. Attendees captured magical moments with Santa, enjoyed seasonal treats like hot chocolate and hot toddies curated by Chef Nicholas McCann, and most importantly, contributed to a meaningful cause.

Attendees donated toys or purchased from our Walker Hotels x Good+ Foundation Wish List, ensuring families in need received holiday gifts. Monetary donations were also welcomed, making the event a powerful reminder of the joy and impact of giving back. We’re grateful to everyone who helped support this incredible organization.

Located in the heart of SoHo, Best Friends Animal Society is a national nonprofit dedicated to ending the euthanasia of dogs and cats in shelters across the country. Their New York City center showcases adoptable animals from local shelters and rescue organizations, providing a playful, modern setting designed to encourage interaction and educate visitors about the challenges facing homeless pets.

By adopting or fostering a pet through Best Friends, you’re not only saving a life but also making space in the shelter for other homeless pets in New York City, giving them a chance to grow, thrive, and find families of their very own.

Founded in 1977 by philanthropist Agnes Gund, Studio in a School brings professional visual artists into New York City classrooms to foster the creative and intellectual development of students from Pre-K to 12th grade. In response to budget cuts that had virtually eliminated arts education from public schools, Studio in a School was established to restore visual arts instruction by engaging professional artists to support teachers in public schools.

Over the past 46 years, Studio in a School has partnered with public schools and community organizations across all five boroughs, serving nearly 1.2 million students. Their programs offer students the opportunity to explore their creativity by working directly with professional artists, providing avenues to explore and develop their creative potential.

By supporting Studio in a School, you help provide quality visual arts education to New York City youth, nurturing their creativity and enriching their educational experience.