Mercy For Animals’ short film Henrietta Finds a Nest—backed by executive producer Daniella Monet and created by the Emmy-winning team at Mighty Oak Studios—tells the magical true story of one rescued chicken who changed everything. The award-winning film has screened at more than 25 festivals worldwide, earning six honors. Starting October 18, the film will invite viewers everywhere to discover the hope and love at the heart of Henrietta’s journey.
A Night of Heart and Hope
Supporters, friends, and changemakers came together in New York City for an unforgettable evening celebrating Henrietta Finds a Nest. Guests enjoyed an intimate atmosphere filled with compassion, creativity, and community all in honor of a little chicken whose story is inspiring a kinder world.
Famous Faces for a Kinder Future
The evening drew an exciting lineup of celebrity supporters, influencers, artists, and activists who all share our mission for animals. Among the attendees were Nev Schulman, Will Janowitz, Tee Sanders, Nemanja Golubovic, Justina Adorno, Piyali Syam, Ari Gold, Gene Baur, Victoria Moran, Steve Sterlacci, Chelsea Best, Marisa Miller Wolfson, Jacob Wasserman, and Taylor Blackwell.
On stage, an incredible group of talent brought the program to life. TV host and journalist Angela Yvonne served as our inspiring MC. Musical performances by Billboard charting, internationally touring singer-songwriter Jessica Lynn, and recording artist and Broadway actor Rory Max Kaplan captivated the audience and set the tone for an evening filled with hope and joy.
Lights Down, Film Up
The highlight of the night was a special VIP screening of Henrietta Finds a Nest. Audience members were deeply moved by Henrietta’s journey—from factory farm neglect to love and friendship—and many shared how touched they were by the film’s message.
Following the screening, a panel featuring Mercy For Animals’ president, Leah Garcés; producer Chloe Devine; writer and executive producer Matthew Scheer; and Mighty Oak Studios producer Kelsey Usher offered powerful insights. Their discussion informed and inspired the crowd, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the film’s creation and the mission driving it. We were honored to have our creative partners from Mighty Oak Studios in attendance to celebrate this milestone with us.
A Shared Vision for Animals
Every detail of the evening reflected the values at the heart of Henrietta Finds a Nest: compassion, hope, and the belief that all animals deserve respect and protection. With supporters, celebrities, and creative partners gathered together, the night underscored a shared commitment to building a kinder food system and ending factory farming.
Be Part of Henrietta’s Journey
Henrietta Finds a Nest has already traveled the world, screening at more than 25 film festivals, in classrooms, and at community events. But the journey is just beginning. With your support, we can share Henrietta’s story even further and inspire millions more to see chickens—and all animals—as the unique, loving individuals they are.
Watch the film on October 20, and share Henrietta’s story today.
Together, we are creating a world where every animal is respected, protected, and free.
With Gratitude to Our Sponsors and Partners
We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors, VIBE Snacks and VGAN Chocolate, for helping make the night possible.
Guests also enjoyed a delicious plant-based spread featuring Dun-Well Doughnuts, Queen City Poppin, and Voila Caterers. Gift bags delighted attendees with treats from VIBE Snacks, Queen City Poppin, and VGAN Chocolate.
Special thanks also go to our event partners:
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