Celebrities and influential Latin names turned the elegant Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York into a place of contribution during the glamorous Hispanic Federation Gala 2014 on April 23.

Following a hot red carpet lineup, the chic program "Inspiring A New Generation" kicked off with two huge Hispanic celebrity names. Heartthrob Mario Lopez, mostly known for his roles as television host on NUVO TV and Extra, and Ana Ortiz of the hit television program "Devious Maids," hosted the event. The annual extravaganza pays homage to Latinos who are striving to give back and are creating change in their communities.

Among the honorees were former New York Yankees player Mariano Rivera, who won the "Premio Orgullo" and Joe Echevarría, CEO of Deloitte, who received the "Individual Achievement Award."

Telemundo Anchor "José Díaz-Balart won the "Lifetime Achievement Award," Delta Air Lines was named for the "Corporate Leadership Award," and the Hispanic Resource Center of Larchmont and Mamaroneck received the "Community Service Award."

Latin Post was live tweeting from the event, so check out the feed @Latin_Post for behind-the-scenes photos and highlights. Proceeds from the gala help sustain The Hispanic Federation, an organization that helps support an extensive network of Latino non-profits serving sectors of the Hispanic community and advocates for causes like education for children of undocumented immigrants, health, economic empowerment and more.

Carlos Anaya is the host for MY Lifestyle Extra. He offers services as a reporter, talent, multimedia producer & social media influencer. Recognized as one of the 25 most influential young Latino leaders in New York by the National Latino Leaders Magazine, Anaya is frequently asked to be a moderator for media panels around the country. Anaya is the Managing Editor for MY Lifestyle Magazine, a boutique publication for hispanic millennials. Contributor for Telemundo, CNN En Español, Fox News Latino. @carlosanaya carlos@carlosanaya.net