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Category Archives: Good Cause

Global Family Reunion- June 6

Posted on May 28, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Events, Good Cause, Out and about... .

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post as we were invited to the event.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Global family Reunion flyer

This special event of epic proportions combines so many fun things to do and see.  There will be games, there will be speakers, celebrities, a chance to break a world record and much, much, more!  This fun filled day has another bright spot, the proceeds go towards Alzheimer’s Research. 

HERES THE SKINNY…

What:  Presentations by entertainers, authors and scientists! Music! Food! Exhibits! Comedy! Games for kids!

When: June 6, 2015, from 11:00AM to 8:30PM.

Who’s Invited: You! All seven billion members of the human family. Those with a proven connection to the world’s biggest family tree (currently at 77 million people) get a bracelet and take part of the largest family photo in history.

Harry Potter Family Tree

Presentations: The GFR will feature talks and presentations by a wide range of fascinating experts and entertainers. Among those who have already agreed to participate: Filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush (via video), Comedy Central star Nick Kroll, NPR host Ophira Eisenberg and former Obama administration member Cass Sunstein. Many more speakers will be announced soon.

Activities: The Global Family Reunion will have dozens of activities for all ages, including: A scavenger hunt from Watson Adventures. The world’s largest family photo. A talent contest. Exhibitions about family history and genealogy. Historical impersonators. Not to mention the 450 interactive exhibits at the New York Hall of Science, the museum where the reunion will take place. ( I am not quite sure how we will get through it all!!!)

Reunion mini golf

Documentary: The Global Family Reunion will be the subject of a documentary by Morgan Spurlock.

The Cause: Fighting Alzheimer’s. The Global Family Reunion has partnered with two remarkable organizations devoted to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease. Namely, the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund and the Alzheimer’s Association New York Chapter. Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that affects more than 40 million members of the Human Family, a number that will climb exponentially unless we find a cure. In addition, to buying tickets, you can also support the cause by participating in the Surname Showdown to Fight Alzheimer’s (just click here) – a family friendly competition to see which family can raise the most money to battle this killing disease. 

The Price: All proceeds will go to battling Alzheimer’s research, education and training. To buy Tickets CLICK HERE and be sure to enter code RNYMOM for a special discount.

The Locations: The 2015 Global Family Reunion will be held on the site of the legendary 1964 New York World’s Fair. The grounds are now home to the New York Hall of Science, which is one of the top science-themed museums in the world. The museum holds 5,000 people, with a gorgeous, sprawling 11-acre outdoor space that can hold more than 10,000 more. The museum’s 450 hands-on interactive exhibits will be open to GFR attendees, including a space-themed mini-golf course, a design lab where you can create movies and 3-D print objects, and a collection of rockets.

The Founder: The founder of the Global Family Reunion is bestselling author A.J. Jacobs, whose books include The Year of Living Biblically, The Know-It-All and Drop Dead Healthy. Jacobs is an NPR commentator and the editor at large at Esquire. He is a speaker with two TED talks that have reached over a million views. He is the father of three, the husband of one, and the cousin to millions.

All proceeds will go to battling Alzheimer’s research, education and training. To buy Tickets CLICK HERE and be sure to enter code RNYMOM for a special discount.

Stay tuned for our photos and full review!  Hope to see you there!!

Faeries for a Cause

Posted on May 7, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Photo Obsessed, Photography, Reviews .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post. Faerie Promotion March of Dimes

I love a good charity, and no one has to twist my arm for photos, usually.  When I came across this advertisement for a fundraiser for the March of Dimes I thought it was absolutely adorable and something my readers might be interested. So I shared it, but I wasn’t planning on participating in it.  I am happy to report that I was correct.  You all were into it, and shortly after posting it I started getting messages from many of you saying that you were interested but you wanted to see mine first.  I should explain… I wasn’t going to participate because my children are photographed a lot, not because I didn’t love the idea, I really love the idea, I just fear that my kiddos will have enough one of these days… BUUUTTTT once you all started asking me to I agreed (it didn’t take much convincing). I was there a week ago, and here’s how it went.

Firstly, here is the deal… More info can be found HERE

  • Session fee is $50 per child, which includes an 8 x 10 print of your child(ren). 100% of this goes to March of Dimes.
  • There are a la carte options for purchasing additional poses or prints or both. A portion of these fees goes to the March of Dimes
  • Your photo is entered into a voting contest. Votes are $1 each and 100% of this goes to March of Dimes.
  • If you are one of the top 13, your photo goes into a calendar that is sold for $15. 100% of this goes to March of Dimes.

I made my appointment (click here to do the same) and was able to get in very quickly.  (E) loves to play dress up so I was not too worried that she wouldn’t have a good time.  I chose not to bring (A) because he has so many after school activities and it would be near impossible to book for him.  I was also a little worried that he may not be into it.

It took just about an hour to get to the studio, and it was not hard to find.  We were brought in and taken to a dressing room where there were several different outfits, wings and headpieces to choose from.  We let (E) choose her own.  It ended up being perfect, and not what I might have picked if it was my choice so the girl has got style.

(E) chooses her costume.  She chose the one that was so a-typical, and I am SO glad she did. 

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Once dressed we walked into the studio itself where magical music played in the background.  Instead of just throwing (E) into the scene and forcing photos, they just allowed her to walk around, to get accustomed to the setting.  She was able to explore the animals, the “water”, the flowers, everything.  While she walked around, the flash stated going off.  Totally naturally.  The photographer asked (E) if she could do certain things (look into something, talk to an animal, etc.) and she did.  The staff had some little tricks for getting her to look in certain places, and for getting her to smile.

Ready for her close-up!

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The photographer was so patient, allowing her time to get used to the surroundings.

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(E) really loved the fan blowing in her face, she looked like she enjoyed being a “star”.  She enjoyed walking around the magical set.  When we first walked in there were some toys in the area for parents to stand and she fell in love with a blue wrench.  Instead of being upset that she wouldn’t let it go (nope not even to play with the set), they were able to incorporate it into the photos, hiding it to get her to look inside or at a certain place.

They were able to get (E) to look in certain places because of the wrench.

Wrench in LightYep its in that little ball too ;O)

Butterfly with wrench under

Once the shoot ended the tough part started.  Which photo to choose.  This is always the toughest part and the faerie session was no exception.  All of the photos were breathtaking.  I was patiently walked through them with a yes, no, maybe process that really helped me to narrow them down.  We spoke about the editing process (which takes place after you make your choice).  After making that big decision there are some packages you can choose from if you would like more photos than the 8 x 10 that comes with the deal.  You can also purchase photos a la carte.

The quick last shot I took before the photographer did his thing.

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LOOK AT THIS PICTURE!!!

fairy-ej

(for a special surprise, download the free app “Vivaloo” and use the key word Faeries to see video of (E)’s session).

I ADORE my photo.  I am GLAD that I did it.  It may not be something that I ever do again, but I have this beautiful keepsake of my little girl.  Since completing my session I have shown the photos to several of my friends, who quickly signed up for sessions.  I can say with true confidence that it was fun for both of us, and the money goes to an amazing cause.  It is a really fun and innovative way to fundraise.  Everyone walks away happy.  Except maybe (A) who said that he wished he could have gone too.. and I thought he wouldn’t be into it (go figure).

To schedule your appointment call  845.707.4061.  You can also see more about the experience, and ND Pro Media at their website: http://magicalfaerieportraits.com/

Icing Smiles

Posted on March 3, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Reviews, Specialty Items, We're Having a Party .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.  All opinions expressed are my own.

One of the things I love about small local businesses is the way they all come together to help the community.  Of course they do, they live here.  So many of the RNYM businesses give back it would be impossible to list them all (if you are ever in need of one, contact me). 

When I met Gilda Burke of Jolirose Cake Shop we were working together on Gabi’s “Party of a Lifetime”.  her creation blew me away.  So much so that when I needed a smash cake for (E)’s first birthday photo-shoot I went straight to her.

(E)’s smash cake session.  Photo Credit:  Honeybee Photography NY

Smash Cake HBP

Dig In Smash Cake HBP

So, after almost a year of our professional relationship (and tons of well deserved accolades later), I find out that she also participates in Icing Smiles, a program that brings amazing cakes to very sick children.  Not just ANY cake, their dream cake, and if you’ve ever seen her work, you know that’s just what it will be.

iCING SMILES LOGO

Gilda with one of her award winning creations.

Jolirose Gilda

A highly acclaimed and published piece Gilda did for Wedding Chicks Blog. Photo credit: Stefy Hilmer Photography.

Jolirose Enchanted Wedding Cake

To request a “smile” is easy.  You just go to their website and click on the button.  You fill out a request and viola, one less thing for a family to worry about.  Sometimes the best thing for a sick kiddo is to feel a little “normal”, but its one of the hardest things for the parents to do with so much on their plate.  You do not have to be the parent of a sick child to request one.  If you know someone in need you can nominate them to receive one.  Talented cake artists like Gilda will create a beautiful masterpiece that may help everyone to forget their worries and enjoy a moment of time.

Jolirose Circus Cake

Major restructuring of our “For a Good Cause” page is underway.  I will be updating it with awesome programs like this for people who need it.  Check back soon for a newer page that serves our community!!

3 Comments .

Sensory-Friendly Shows at AMC Palisades

Posted on January 23, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Good Cause, Out and about..., Specialty Items .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.  All opinions are my own.

As a special education teacher, friend and parent something that really hits home for me is the need for more understanding for children with differences.  All of them.  That’s why when a fellow blogger Haute Happenings posted about this I had to share (with permission of course).  I think that this is an awesome opportunity, and gives parents a chance to do something that they might otherwise be very timid about trying. 

 Sensory Friendly Films

AMC theaters shows Sensory-friendly shows.  These are great for kids in general but especially those who may have difficulty sitting still or might be sensitive to noise and/or stimulation.  If you check out the list, Palisades is

In order to accommodate they turn the lights up and the sound down.  Audience members are invited to dance, sing, shout, or walk around.  It gives families a chance to view the show without disrupting others.

Know about other sensory-friendly opportunities of interest?  Send us a note!  We would love to add them to the site for all to see!

https://www.amctheatres.com/programs/sensory-friendly-films

Movie Photo

Upcoming Screenings

Saturday, Jan 24, 2015 – PADDINGTON

Saturday, Feb 14, 2015 – SPONGEBOB SQUARE PANTS: SPONGE OUT OF WATER

Saturday, March 28, 2015 – HOME

Saturday, April 18, 2015 – UNDERDOGS

Saturday, May 30, 2015 – TOMORROWLAND

Saturday, June 27, 2015 – INSIDE OUT

Saturday, July 18, 2015 – MINIONS

Saturday, Aug, 2015 – TBD

Saturday, Sep 26, 2015 – HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA

Saturday, Oct 17, 2015 – THE JUNGLE BOOK

Saturday, Nov 14, 2015 – THE PEANUTS MOVIE

Saturday, Dec 5, 2015 – THE GOOD DINOSAUR

All shows are at 10:00 am local time. Dates and films are subject to change.

 

Fight Hunger This Holiday Season

Posted on November 14, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Uncategorized .

food Box Logo

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post.

The Legacy X Foundation invites you to partner with the South Orangetown Food Box Program to fight hunger. The mission of the Food Box is to offer a helping hand to friends and neighbors by providing supplemental food and personal care items to those in need within our communities. Each month we distribute food to families and individuals in South Orangetown, in hopes that we can ease their struggles by helping them put food on their tables.

The Legacy X Food Box is wholly dependent upon donations to further it’s community impact. Please take a stand and make a difference in the lives of needy families. With your help, the Legacy X Food Box can continue to feed those who need us the most!

If you personally know of other families or individuals who can use some assistance with food, please pass along our email address – eol7000@gmail.com and encourage them to make contact.

Legacy X is built on the foundation of community based impact – helping friends and neighbors is what we do!

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 845-642-7450

 Follow us on Facebook at South Orangetown Legacy X Food Box
 

Give “Hope” this Holiday Season

Posted on November 4, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Photo Obsessed, Reviews .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post.  All opinions expressed are my own. 

Last week I posted a press release from Studio 3 Photography which announced that their Holiday Mini Sessions this year would be a little different (click here). A quarter of the price for each session booked is being donated to the “Hope for Brian” fund, which benefits Brian a 3 year old with a rare and terrible genetic disease called Atazia-Telangiectasia. 

As you know, I am a planner. I like to have advance notice to get things done.  I calculate, I coordinate, I prepare.  This time of year, especially this week, I am crazy nuts.  So, although I planned to take my kids over to Studio 3, I didn’t get around to making an appointment.  Enter Caitlin, who knows me so well that she knows I need to be nagged.  So I received a text from her asking what day and time I would be in this weekend.  I was so swamped I happened to have one time slot on Sunday that worked, I was not prepared in the least which at first freaked me out and then I decided to “let it go” and just go with the flow.  I was lucky enough to have purchased the casual Christmas outfits for my children (told you I was a planner) so I went with those and left the rest to Caitlin.

Before we went I explained to (A) that we were doing a good thing because of the donation. It is a reoccurring theme in our house, all of the time, but we really try to emphasize it during the holiday season.  Almost everything that we do has some sort of give back attached to it so it was perfect.

Here’s how it went. We walked in, and I sat on a couch.  Caitlin took over, making my children laugh, and just be their natural selves :o).  The backdrops for the photos (of which there are three) are just as promised, simple, leaving the opportunity for your family to be the star of the show.  The result is adorable, silly, classic.  Caitlin captured some really amazing shots.  The kids had so much fun, making faces, standing on a box (E’s favorite game was climbing up and down), and trying out the different props.

A rare photo of the process, Caitlin entertains (A) and (E). Disclaimer: These were my cell phone… doesn’t do any of the process justice…

Pictures of Pictures 3

Goofing around in between takes.

Pictures of Pictures 4

Getting set. 

Pictures of Pictures 2

The pictures are my kids, pure kid, and pure gold.  How is Caitlin able to get my squiggly little monkeys to stop and look right at the camera?  Ask her to do her fantastic elephant impression.

My goof-balls. 

Silly Aidan

Cuties

Duck Face

What I cannot stop looking at is their eyes. Looking into their eyes in the photographs is like looking into their souls.  Which reminds me of Brian.  As I see my children holding a picture of this beautiful little man, I couldn’t be more positive that finding the time to book my session was the right thing.  Brian’s parents deserve a chance to see those beautiful eyes grow, and to help them to show joy, not pain.  Now I have these amazing pictures for my walls, my Christmas cards, my photobooks, my heart.  I was also able to help their families fight, to continue to find hope.

Serious Cuties

Emma 1

Aidan Kiss Me

If you are interested in booking your session with the amazingly talented ladies at Studio 3 contact them at 845-680-8888 and register on  their website www.studio3photographers.com/hope-for-brian/.

Due to Studio 3’s high demand for all events photographic (newborn, wedding, professional, birth story, portraiture, and more) mini-sessions are only available this week 11/3-11/8/14 (all day). If you are on the fence allow me to give you that final push.  Take some time to make a memory and help Brian in the process.

Here is a picture of my babies looking at someone else’s baby- one who needs some “Hope”.

Kids with Brian

‘Tis the Season!

Posted on October 28, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Photo Obsessed, Specialty Items, Thoughts.. .

One of the things that I am most proud of on our site is our Photographers Directory. There you can find a variety of styles and price points, along side of these talented ladies (just a coincidence) you will find samples of the pictures that they took of my children or family and a full review.  Some of what really impresses me about them is not only their talent, but their personalities, their hearts.  I am happy to say that through our interactions I am able to call these artists my friends as well as my associates. Nothing could make me prouder to call them friends than this new opportunity.  This season one of our participants STUDIO 3 reminds us what this time of year is truly about and provides you with an opportunity to tackle a few items on your to do list with panache. 

“HOPE for Brian”…it’s a holiday MINI-session with a BIG goal and You can be part of it all!

Hope for Brian Picture

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post. All opinions are my own.

Last year, during the holiday season I introduced you to Studio 3 Photography who took some unbelievable photographs of my family during one of their famous “Holiday Minis”.  Don’t remember?  Click Here.  The piece and its corresponding article were a big hit, being printed in the local “Pearl River and Orangeburg Life.”

This year, not only are they offering their mini-sessions to you again, but this year there is a bit of a twist.  They have decided that in the spirit of the season they will donate $50 of every session booked to the “Hope for Brian” fund.  Brian is a handsome little ray of sunshine that the trio was luckily enough to meet during a session.  Brian has a rare children’s disease called Atazia-Telangiectasia.  Please read the following press release and even if you don’t book a session, consider joining me in making a donation.

Studio 3 Photography Mini-Session Press Release

“Imagine a disease that combines the worst symptoms of muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, immune deficiencies, and cancer. Children with A-T (Atazia-Telangiectasia) are usually confined to wheelchairs by age 10 and often do not survive their teens.” –www.atcp.org

“Did you know there are only around 1000 documented cases of Ataxia-Telangiectasia in the world? 500 of them live in the United States” 

ONE is our neighbor. 

He is 3 1/2 and his name is Brian…

“HOPE for Brian”…it’s a holiday MINI-session with a BIG goal and You can be part of it all!

What: Holiday MINI Sessions with a BIG goal 

When: November 1st – November 8th

Who: “Hope For Brian” fund

Where: Studio Three in Sparkill, NY

Why: Because ‘tis the season to remember the people who allow us to do what we love every day and to help out where we can.

How: Register at http://studio3photographers.com/hope-for-brian/

For more information please contact Caitlin at Studio 3 Photography.

914-629-0068
caitlinfuster@gmail.com

1 Comment .

GiGi’s Playhouse and RYE PLAYLAND-Mark Your Calendars!

Posted on September 19, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Money Momma, Out and about..., Thoughts.., Uncategorized .

Disclosure:  This is an unsponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own, and those of Jamie the ‘Money Momma’.

As you know RNYM is dedicated to serving the community, specifically children’s causes. We are always happy to post a fun/walk/fundraiser on the site to benefit a children’s charity.  I am at a loss for words for the outpouring of support that we received for Gabi’s Party, and the generosity of our community.  It is truly amazing to see a community come together the way that it has.Gi Gi Owen Flyer

One of the most amazing things about having kids is how much the definition of fun changes. All of a sudden the word fun is defined by watching someone else have a good time.  Seeing our kids smile and enjoy life is by far the greatest reward there is in parenting.  Then there are the great times where we get to combine fun with a worthwhile cause.  It is with that idea in mind that on October 12, 2014 RocklandNYMom.com invites you to cheer on Chief Editor Megan Johnston and Financial Columnist Jamie Flesher as they take on a 5K run and 1 mile, kids included, inspirational walk through RYE PLAYLAND to benefit GiGi’s Playhouse, a Down syndrome achievement center. GiGi’s Playhouse services children and adults of all ages, each Playhouse provides educational and therapeutic programs at no charge to families; and in a format that individuals with Down syndrome learn best. All programs aim to maximize self-confidence and empower individuals to achieve their greatest potential.

By way of background, this is not just any charity to Megan and Jamie. GiGi’s Playhouse is of utmost importance to a little boy who is very special to us and all 4 of our kids.  (O) is an adorable and sweet 3 year old with Down syndrome. He also happens to be a good friend to (A),(E),(R), and (S) since all the kids attend Busy Bee Playschool together.  So we thought why not have some fun together at Rye Playland, support a cause that is special to us, and get our cardio in all at the same time?  We also know that the day just would not be the same without our RocklandNYMom.com readers there to show their support in whatever manner they choose.  We are running, walking, dashing to bring GiGi’s Playhouse to Westchester County.  They are in the home stretch to their big grand opening.  The goal is to build  GiGi’s Playhouse for all kids, teenagers, and adults with Down syndrome.  The achievement center will show everyone what individuals with Down syndrome can really do – the sky is the limit!

The gang gives (O) a group hug while playing after school.

owen and crew

To read more about (O) and his journey or support (O)’s team, click here: http://gigisplayhouse.donorpages.com/Race2014Westchester5K/TeamLivingtheDream/

To read more about GiGi’s Playhouse, click here:

gigisplayhouse.org

The Party of a Lifetime- Community Project

Posted on June 25, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Thoughts.., We're Having a Party .

Disclosure: This is an unsponsored post, all opinions expressed are my own.

If you read my review of Art Adventure (here’s your chance) then you know what a wondrous, magical place it is. A free safe environment for kids to explore their creativity in a myriad of ways that I wouldn’t allow in my home simply because I can’t fathom having to clean up after it.   When I heard that they had donated a party to Gabi for her “No More Chemo” party (Affectionately renamed a “Yay Gabi” party) I was over the moon. What could be better???

The answer is simple, if several other super talented and awesome people donated their talents as well.

When I walked into Art Adventure on June 7 I was literally speechless  Setup was already underway, and right from the start I was amazed. I like balloons as much as the next person, but have often thought of their uses as limited…. Not anymore. Confetti Party Decorating outdid themselves, at the entrance were two balloon towers with princesses on the top. “Gabi Rocks” was spelled down the sides.   On top of a nearby bookcase were a balloon Cinderella (yes completely made from twisting balloons), and a little wand with a heart at the top for Gabi to carry around. Scattered around the venue were each of the other Disney Princesses atop their own little balloon stack. Oh how I wished it was my party! After meeting and speaking to Laurie, I no longer think that balloons are boring or limited in any way. I love what she does with these balloons she is truly an artist.

The Cinderella Baloon Laurie Twisted for Gabi.

Cinderella Balloon

Gabi receives the Balloon Wand.

Gabi Balloons

As set up continues, people keep stopping in to drop off their contributions. Delicious chocolate chip cookies from Colleen Kirby of My Sweet Thyme www.mysweetthyme.com were the next item to arrive. They were so good (not too soft, not too hard, with loads of chips in them), it was really difficult to keep the kiddies (and adults) away!

Then came Gilda Burke from Jolirose and her magnificent cake. Given a few ideas (literally, princess and Dora) she was able to create a masterpiece so beautiful that we had to force Eric to cut it, no one wanted to ruin its perfection. The kicker? It was so mouthwatering too, even the fondant which traditionally tastes like plain play dough or nothing at all. I ate my fondant too!

The unbelievable fairytale “Dora” cake.

Gabi Cake

The generosity of those involved has left me in shock. I am so happy and proud to be a part of this community of special people.  Some of these special people have donated the following to Gabi.

The beautiful custom giant banners were created and donated by Creations by Dawne https://www.facebook.com/CreationsByDawne.

Treasures by TeresaAnn stepped in and created a  little mermaid light block as her gift from the community.  Theresa even went one step further and  is doing a fund raiser open to all in her honor now. For each beautiful light block purchased from the signature Gabi line will result in a 20% donation to Gabi’s Gold Fund.  The fundraiser can be seen on Gabi’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/GabiNationTotallyRocks

Treasures by TeresaAnn can be found at  https://www.facebook.com/TreasuresbyTeresaAnn

As this party was a special one for Gabi and her family it was only fitting that a professional photographer be there to capture the moments on camera.  Migdalia Valdes offered her services right away and couldn’t wait to be part of the day.  Migdalia is a true artist and really captured the essence of who Gabi is.   Migdalia Valdes Photography can be found at  www.migdaliavaldes.com

Dance Central also contacted us and donated free dance classes after reading Gabi’s story on our website and learning how much she loves to dance.

When Gabi enters art adventure I hold my breath. I can tell that others are as well. We are all anticipating a reaction, but not sure what. (It’s a lot of responsibility to throw the party of a lifetime.) While most children would be slightly overwhelmed by so much attention she handled it like a mega star with tons of red carpet experience.

Gabi enters with the grace of a movie star (look at those towers too!).

Gabi Entrance

Gabi is so smart. Our princess never missed a beat, she jumps right in and gets down to business. She is one of the most polite children I have ever encountered, asking politely if she can work at a station or if she can have a little help. Her classmates welcomed her right in, grabbing her hand and pulling her towards the fun.

The kids decorate the blackboard for Gabi.

kids decorate board

(R) makes her mark on the souviner t-shirt made for Gabi.

souvenier t shirt

Gabi is gentleness and kindness epitomized. She moves from station to station with her parents and friends. She is in her element, she paints naturally as if she was born with a paintbrush in hand. Each station is more fun than the next, with the culmination being the chance to pop balloons with a stick and create one of a kind paintings (so fun!). I don’t think that Gabi stopped to breathe. She smiled through the whole party (yesss!) from ear to ear. So did her friends :o)

Gabi paints.

Gabi paints

Gabi shows off her handiwork.Gabi Painting

(H) pops a baloon filled with paint!

popping balloons

To read Gabi’s story (click here) will break your heart. To hear how a community came together to give her the party of a lifetime will restore your faith in humanity. It all started with a preschool, an email and a lot of heart. I am so proud to be a part of a community that cares so much for one another and our children, that we pull together to help one another out. An amazing day was had by all and I know that we can’t thank you all enough.

Here is a listing of the amazing vendors who donated their services to Gabi’s “No More Chemo” Party. To check out their work simply click their names!

Dance Central

Jolirose Cupcakes

Treasures by Teresa Ann

Confetti Party Ideas

My Sweet Thyme

Creations by Dawne

Migdalia Valdes Photography

 

2 Comments .

Let’s make every step count!

Posted on May 27, 2014 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Good Cause, Out and about... .

SunriseWALKS for Children with Cancer Sunrise Day Camp 

Pearl River Annual Walk on Sunday, June 8

Let’s make every step count!

Disclaimer:  This is an unsponsored post, this information was released to RNYM for publication.

You know I have a soft spot for charities, especially those that have to do with, well pretty much everyone.  Here is a fantastic one right in our backyard!

Starting at 10:00am on Sunday, June 8th, Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River, will host their second annual fundraising walk-a-thon, SunriseWALKS, to help children with cancer and their siblings attend summer day camp free of charge. This is a fun-noncompetitive event is located at the Henry Kaufmann campground in Pearl River, NY, just minutes from the Tappan Zee Bridge The two courses, 1 and 5k, end at a finish line complete with music, games, refreshments and fun for the whole family.   There are so many ways to get involved – walk, run, be a virtual walker, sponsor a participant or even volunteer at the event. Advance registration is on-line at www.sunrise-walks.org or just come by at 8:30am the day of the event when registration begins. The team mascot of the Rockland Boulders, Boulder Bird, will be on hand to greet everyone and the national anthem will be performed by local teen sensation, Tyler Miller.   “Everyone who participates in SunriseWALKS helps support the camp in a big way.” Said Sandy Haft, Director of Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River. “This allows us to continue to create a place where lives are changed for the better for children struggling with cancer.”

This will be the second summer for Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River, a special place where children enjoy the healing power a fun summer camp experience. Every day camper families deal with the tremendous financial and emotional burdens of medical costs related to cancer treatments and hospitalizations. In order not add to that burden, Sunrise is offered completely free of charge. It is only through the generosity of others, and events like SunriseWALKS, that we can make certain no child is turned away.   “Sunrise Day Camp is a place where children enjoy just being kids and can forget about their illness. It also provides a respite for parents and allows them to create some normality in their lives.” Commented Sandy Haft, Director, Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River.

Sunrise Day Camps are the only full summer dedicated day camps in the nation for children with cancer, ages 3 ½ – 16 and their siblings.   Located on 95 beautiful wooded acres in the Henry Kaufman Campgrounds in Pearl River, NY, Sunrise Day Camp – Pearl River, is a member of the Sunrise Day Camps Association. The camp serves children from Manhattan, the Bronx, Westchester, Rockland and Orange Counties, Southern Connecticut, and Northern New Jersey.

sunrise walk

For more information about SunriseWALKS and to register, go to www.sunrise-walks.org or contact Alison Rubin at arubin@rosenthaljcc.org, 914-741-0333 x 23. Every dollar raised through this walk will ensure that those who desperately need a summer filled with fun, joy and laughter will get to have one! Let’s make every step count!

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