Union Square Annual Fundraiser Luncheon

On behalf of the Union Square Foundation, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of you for attending our most anticipated event of the year, the 2024 Annual Spring Fundraiser Luncheon presented by United Airlines at the beautifully bloomed Westin St. Francis. Union Square is forever, and our momentum is everlasting. Your support and contributions are invaluable and together, we can continue to work beyond a singular end goal and dedicate ourselves to constantly evolving to meet the needs of today, tomorrow, and the future. Thank you for your ongoing support in making our mission a reality.

Event Recap

Marisa Rodriguez, CEO of the Alliance, welcomed attendees by expressing heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors whose contributions have fueled the Alliance's initiatives and programs throughout the year. She emphasized that this support enables the Alliance to continue making a positive impact on the community. Marisa highlighted the unique strength and spirit of San Franciscans that propel them through challenges. She emphasized the Alliance's commitment to a circular, adaptive approach that ensures continuous evolution to meet present and future needs. 

San Francisco Mayor London Breed highlighted downtown recovery efforts, new business openings, and initiatives such as the hospitality zone, exploring the idea of supporting free parking, and Powell Street improvement project. She emphasized the city's ongoing commitment to revitalizing Union Square and enhancing the overall vibrancy of San Francisco's downtown area.

Next, our presenting sponsor, Papia Gambelin, the Managing Director of State and Local Government Affairs for United Airlines, expressed United Airlines' support for the Union Square district, Gambelin emphasized the significance of Union Square as a premier neighborhood and underscored United Airlines' solid partnerships with local hotels to ensure visitors have a delightful experience in San Francisco.

A Well-Deserved Award of Excellence

The Alma Award was presented to David Ziese of We Are The Kind by Mark Purdy, President of the Union Square Alliance Board, during the luncheon. Ziese's outstanding leadership and impactful initiatives such as Winter Walk, Union Square in Bloom, SF Live, and Holiday Fundraisers have significantly contributed to the vibrancy and development of Union Square. Purdy's presentation underscored Ziese's dedication to the community and highlighted his deserving nature as the recipient of this prestigious award. David Ziese's achievements exemplify the spirit of progress and dedication celebrated by the Alma Award.

A Special Thank You to our Luncheon's
Fireside Panel!

Marisa Rodriguez and Papia Gambelin led and moderated an engaging fireside chat with city officials and leaders focused on downtown recovery and tourism. The conversation delved into various aspects impacting Union Square and the broader community, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovative approaches to drive recovery and growth. The conversation also addressed safety concerns in the Hospitality District and highlighted legislative initiatives aimed at supporting mixed-use development and addressing law enforcement challenges.The conversation concluded with a focus on optimism and collective efforts to revive downtown vibrancy, leveraging unique assets like the iconic cable car and attractive business opportunities in Union Square. 

Fireside Moderated by:
Marisa Rodriguez, CEO, Union Square Alliance & Union Square Foundation
Papia Gambelin, Presenting Sponsor, United Airlines

Participants:
Matt Haney, California State Assemblymember
Scott Wiener, California State Senator
Tara Lynn Gray, Director of the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA)
Rodney Fong, President & CEO at San Francisco Chamber of Commerce

thank you to all our sponsors!