Friends of Karen, which provides vital, practical and comprehensive support, at no cost, to families caring for a child with a life-threatening illness, presents its gala benefit “Celebration on the Sound” on Friday, June 14, 6:30-11:30 p.m. at Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club. Returning as emcee is NBC Correspondent Kate Snow. The evening will honor longtime Friends of Karen Board member Palma Patti and corporate partner Acura of Westchester.
“Friends of Karen is a lifeline for families caring for a child with a life-threatening illness,” says Ms. Snow. “I am honored to be part of such an amazing organization, a resource like no other.”
Proceeds from the gala will benefit the hundreds of children battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses in the tri-state area whose families turn to Friends of Karen for help every day. The charity was founded out of the kindness of one friend toward another: Sheila Petersen of Croton Falls raised funds from the community to help Barbara and Angus MacInnes care for their daughter Karen at home, so the family could spend the rest of Karen’s short life together.
“Friends of Karen started with one child,” says Judith Factor, the charity’s Executive Director. “Since then, we’ve touched the lives of more than 12,400 children. That’s something to celebrate!”
Please join us for a milestone event with fabulous food, marvelous music, awesome auction, a stunning sunset and surprises galore! Contact Gwen Salmo for tickets and information at 914-617-4051 or GwenSalmo@friendsofkaren.org. Or go to www.FriendsOfKaren.org and click on the Friends of Karen life preserver.
Friends of Karen is a registered 501(c)(3) charity and the only organization in the New York tri-state area that provides a comprehensive range of programs for families caring for a child with a life-threatening illness. Our team of expert social workers, committed staff and dedicated volunteers deliver the services that help free our families of everyday concerns, so they have more time to love. Headquartered in North Salem, NY, with offices on Long Island and in Manhattan, Friends of Karen is widely recognized for its operational efficiency, with 82 cents of every dollar collected going directly to support families. Charity Navigator, an independent organization that evaluates the financial efficiency and responsibility of thousands of U.S. charities, has consistently awarded Friends of Karen a 4-star rating – their highest award.