New Heights looks forward to seeing you on Monday, October 26th at Gotham Hall. Whether this is your first New Heights event or your first time in the neighborhood, this guide covers everything you need to know before you arrive.

Frequently asked questions

The Basics

When and where is the event?

• Date: Monday, October 26, 2026

• Venue: Gotham Hall, 1356 Broadway, New York, NY 10018

• Location: On Broadway between W 36th and W 37th Streets in Midtown Manhattan, a short walk from Herald Square and Penn Station

What is the schedule for the evening?

• 6:00 PM, Cocktails: Arrive, check in, enjoy a drink, and mingle

• 7:00 PM, Dinner + Program: Take your seat for dinner and the evening's program, including the live auction

• 9:00 PM, Desserts + Farewells: Close out the night with dessert and goodbyes

What time should I arrive?

• Doors open at 6:00 PM.

• We recommend arriving between 6:00 and 6:30 PM so you have time to check in and mingle before dinner begins at 7:00 PM.

Tickets and Check-In

Do I need a ticket?

• No. There are no physical or digital tickets for this event.

• Your name is on our guest list. Just give your name at check-in when you arrive.

• There's nothing to print or show on your phone.

I'm attending as someone's guest. Am I on the list?

• Yes, as long as your table host has shared your name with New Heights.

• If you're unsure, check with the person who invited you, or contact Kyle DeMerlis (kdemerlis@newheightsnyc.org) or Francis Lewis (flewis@jcflevents.com).

I'm a table host. What do I need to do?

• If you haven't already, please send your guests' names and emails to Francis Lewis (flewis@jcflevents.com) as soon as possible.

• Send any last-minute guest list changes to both Kyle DeMerlis (kdemerlis@newheightsnyc.org) and Francis Lewis (flewis@jcflevents.com).

• Feel free to forward this guide to your guests so they have everything they need.

What to Wear

What is the dress code?

• Business or cocktail attire

• Late-October evenings in New York can be cool, so consider bringing a coat or wrap for the walk to and from the venue.

Getting There

What is the best way to get to Gotham Hall?

Public transportation is often the easiest option in Midtown, especially during the evening rush.

By subway:

• 34 St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W trains): about 2 blocks away. This is the closest station.

• 34 St–Penn Station (1, 2, 3 trains): about 3 blocks away.

• From either station, head north on Broadway. Gotham Hall is between W 36th and W 37th Streets.

By commuter rail:

• Coming by LIRR, NJ Transit, or Amtrak? You'll arrive at Penn Station, a short walk from the venue.

By taxi or rideshare:

• Set your drop-off to 1356 Broadway, New York, NY 10018.

• Midtown traffic can be heavy around 6:00 PM, so allow extra time.

By car:

• Several parking garages are within two blocks of Gotham Hall.

• The closest is Icon Parking at 161–163 W 36th Street.

• Street parking is very limited, so we recommend a garage.

About New Heights

Our mission?

• To educate and empower promising underserved youth to be leaders, champions, and student-athletes.

• To help them build the skills they need to succeed in high school, college, and life.

What does the GameChangers Ball support?

• The GameChangers Ball is New Heights' annual gala. Funds raised during the evening directly support our student-athletes and programs.

Live Auction Preview

Lot 1: A Night on the Hudson, a Private Grand Banks Soirée for 16

Gather your 16 favorite people aboard Grand Banks, the historic wooden schooner turned beloved floating restaurant, for an evening of food, drinks, and Manhattan skyline views. It's perfect for a milestone birthday, a client thank-you, or simply the best summer night of the year.

Lot 2: Twice the Talent, Courtside with the Champagnie Twins

New Heights alumni Justin and Julian Champagnie now play in the NBA, and they’re inviting you to see them in action. Each twin is hosting his own once-in-a-lifetime game experience during the 2026–27 season, complete with travel and a signed jersey to take home.

Lot 3: Courtside to Cameron, the Ultimate Duke Basketball Experience

Fly private to Durham, take your seats among the Duke faithful, and meet one of our own: Deron Rippey Jr., a New Heights alum now making his mark as a Duke freshman.

Do I have to bid or donate?

• No. Bidding and giving are entirely optional. We're simply glad you're there to celebrate with us.