BCRF Supporter Turns New Year’s Eve Celebration into Meaningful Fundraiser

Inspired by his personal connection to the cause, Holden Rosen Grupp organized an event that raised $25,000 for breast cancer research.

Holden Rosen Grupp has always enjoyed being a host. From sleepovers to team meals and holiday dinners – he grew up as an amateur event planner. So, when his favorite holiday, New Year’s Eve, was approaching he decided to turn the annual celebration into a fundraiser for breast cancer research.

“I wanted to take advantage of the organic hype that comes with New Year’s Eve, and put that excitement towards raising money for a great cause,” Holden said. Now in its second year, the event raised $25,000 for BCRF.

Holden found BCRF through his friend, Stephanie Ginsberg, a dedicated BCRF supporter and Advisory Board Member.

“I needed to find an organization that I trusted. Once you learn about what BCRF is doing, there are few organizations held to such a high standard,” Holden said.

Holden knows the power of research firsthand. Mothers of several of his close friends and most recently, his cousin, have been diagnosed.  

“I’m inspired by the people I know who have fought this disease with a smile on their face,” Holden said. “When you have a personal stake in this game, your passion and support is accelerated.”

Holden’s idea for the New Year’s Eve party blossomed from an event he organized in high school for 250 people. This year, Holden adapted the event to take place at the Sound Lounge in the Flatiron district, which the location provided pro bono. United with the help of friends, they cleared out the space, decorated it and Holden even tapped an old resource to help with the entertainment: the band who played at his bar mitzvah.

“It’s really gratifying to see a bunch of young adults who don’t really know what to expect, step out of their comfort zone in support of BCRF,” Holden said “There were a ton of people who helped make this happen.”

With the success of his fundraiser, and more like them, he strongly believes these efforts will advance critical research. 

“I think that breast cancer will be the first form of cancer cured,” Holden said. “More so, I am hoping that it will be a stepping stone to finding more cures, for other diseases, sooner rather than later.”