For 35 years, Friends of Karen has given emotional and financial support to families of children with cancer and other life-threatening disorders. The only such group in the New York tri-state area focused on this mission, this entity offers a variety of no-cost services that allow parents to spend more time with their loved ones. These programs aid families in understanding the ins and outs of health insurance, acquiring government assistance, and obtaining direct financial relief for medical expenses and transportation.
On June 14, 2014, Friends of Karen hosted “An Evening in Venice,” a benefit gala that featured CNN anchor John Berman as emcee. Ranking among the organization's biggest events, it garnered $370,000 to put towards helping children with critical illnesses. The fundraiser also honored several notables who have dedicated time and effort to aiding youths. Ari Fleischer, the White House Press Secretary under George W. Bush, and Becki Fleischer, the ex-president of the Junior League of Northern Westchester, garnered its Sheila W. Petersen Award in recognition of their contributions to Friends of Karen. The event's biggest name was former New York Yankee Mariano Rivera, who won the group’s Humanitarian Award and auctioned off two pitching clinics and a signed jersey on behalf of the organization.