Ashanti and Fabolous headline Bridgehampton benefit as the event also marks the world introduction of Pawpoint
NYC Second Chance Rescue is gearing up for its 5th Annual Concert for a Cause, taking place Friday, August 21st, 2026, at a private estate in Bridgehampton. This year’s benefit carries extra significance: the organization will honor legendary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and longtime animal advocate John Paul DeJoria, while also celebrating the world introduction of Pawpoint, a new wellness brand for dogs.
Headlining the evening will be Grammy Award-winning artist Ashanti and platinum-selling artist Fabolous, with an opening performance by Celina Savage, setting the stage for a night that blends music, philanthropy, and a shared love of animals.
A Decade-Plus of Second Chances
Founded in 2009 by Jennifer Brooks and Lisa Blanco, NYC Second Chance Rescue has rescued more than 17,000 homeless, abused, neglected, and critically injured dogs and cats. The organization focuses on the animals that need it most: critically injured and medically complex cases, senior and hospice animals, large-breed dogs, and vulnerable cats who often have nowhere else to turn.
That mission is exactly why this year’s honoree feels like such a natural fit.
“It is an honor to be recognized by NYC Second Chance Rescue. Their compassion, dedication, and commitment to animals are truly inspiring, and I am grateful to be part of an evening that will help so many animals in need,” said DeJoria.
Introducing Pawpoint
Beyond the honor, DeJoria will also introduce Pawpoint to the world, a new science-based wellness company dedicated to keeping dogs young and healthy. By targeting key biological pathways associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, Pawpoint is designed to support healthy aging, immune balance, cellular health, and overall vitality, helping dogs maintain resilience and long-term well-being.
“All of a sudden, we live in a world where we don’t know what’s real and what’s not,” DeJoria said of the new venture. “But Pawpoint is as serious and as real as it gets.”
Why This Night Matters
For the team at NYC Second Chance Rescue, Concert for a Cause is about more than one evening, it’s about the ripple effect of compassion turned into action.
“Every animal we save has a story, and every second chance is made possible by people who choose to care. Concert for a Cause is about turning that compassion into action. Honoring John Paul DeJoria this year is especially meaningful because he has spent decades using his success to make a difference, including for animals. That shared belief, that we can and should do more, is at the heart of everything we do at NYC Second Chance Rescue,” said Kate McEntee, Director of Partnerships and Special Events at NYC Second Chance Rescue.
“This evening gives people a chance to come together, enjoy an incredible night, and make a real difference for animals who need us,” added Lisa Rose, Vice President of NYC Second Chance Rescue.
Together, the evening promises to celebrate compassion, innovation, and the extraordinary bond between people and animals, with every ticket and donation going directly toward helping more animals get their own second chance.
With Thanks to Our Sponsors
NYC Second Chance Rescue gratefully acknowledges the generous support of its presenting sponsors, Alexander Capital Ventures LLC, Montauk Project, and the Phenom Foundation, whose partnership has helped make this extraordinary evening possible.
Want to get involved? To adopt, foster, donate, or volunteer, visit www.nycsecondchancerescue.org and help save lives.
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About NYC Second Chance Rescue
Founded in 2009, NYC Second Chance Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to saving the most vulnerable dogs and cats from overcrowded municipal shelters. Since its founding, the organization has rescued more than 17,000 lives, specializing in large-breed dogs and critically injured and medically complex cats and dogs that have nowhere else to turn. Through its extensive foster network and Adoption Center in Long Island City, NYC Second Chance Rescue provides lifesaving medical care, rehabilitation, and loving homes, while also helping keep pets with the families who love them through critical community programs and support.
