The Rockland Community Foundation's annual benefit gala on October 10th at the Hudson Water Club in West Haverstraw brought together over 140 county residents, philanthropists, business leaders, elected officials, and local television personalities to honor and celebrate our county's first responders.
News 12's Janine Rose, the emcee for the evening, kicked off the award portion of the event by introducing Chairwoman of the Rockland County Legislature, Harriet Cornell, who talked about the bravery of our first responders. These men and women, many of whom are volunteers, put themselves in harm's way not only during emergency situations such as Hurricane Sandy, but each and every day. She and Foundation Board President Patrick Byrne, saluted Fire & Emergency Services Director Gordon Wren, who was on hand to accept the "Pride of Rockland" award on behalf of the county's EMS, Fire and Police.
As the evening's award ceremonies continued, sponsored first responders from various towns in the county were called to the podium, where Gordon and elected officials presented them with certificates of thanks for their achievements. The pride in the room was evident, as many of the recipients recalled specific instances that clearly illustrated how vital their services are to the county and its residents.
The gala was rounded out by a silent auction, an animated lottery board live auction with Janine Rose as auctioneer, and an incredible dinner, all in support of the Rockland Community Foundation, and its mission to keep charitable giving in the county.
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"This evening exceeded our expectations," said Board President Patrick Byrne. "The money raised at the event, over $40,000, will help bolster our fundraising activities as we continue to grow the Foundation and its ability to support charitable causes in Rockland. Equally important, we were proud to shine the spotlight on men and women who are so deserving of our thanks and gratitude. I am sure everyone in attendance will agree that it was an honor to be here to salute our first responders and listen to their inspiring stories."
About the Rockland Community Foundation
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The Rockland Community Foundation is committed to improving the quality of life for all people in Rockland County by increasing charitable giving. Its mission is to connect people and businesses with the causes that matter most to them through the creation of funds, across a wide range of interests, that donors create and the Foundation stewards. A registered, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, it is governed by a local Board of Directors and an Advisory Board comprised of community leaders from both public and private sectors.
Community foundations put philanthropy within reach, offering the ability to establish funds that will continue to give for years to come, with tax benefits that donors can take advantage of now. Most importantly, the funds stay in the community, which means donors will see the impact of their contributions in the place they call home.
If you are interested in creating a fund and would like more information, or would like to donate to an existing fund, please contact us at 845-947-2868 or visit rocklandgives.org.
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The Rockland Community Foundation
P.O. Box 323, New City, NY 10956
845-947-2868
info@rocklandgives.org www.rocklandgives.org
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