2009 Heroes in the Community Gala

Cambridge Who’s Who, the leading organization for career development, personal branding, executive networking and business growth, is a proud silver sponsor of the 2009 Heroes in the Community Gala presented by the John J. Byrne Community Center | UNIONDALE™. This inaugural event was held on June 16th, 2009 at the Long Island Marriott Hotel to raise funds for the development of a community center in Uniondale, New York. Some of Long Island’s highly esteemed leaders, elected officials and businesspeople turned out in support of the cause, proving that they take improving the Uniondale community very seriously.

The fundraiser consisted of a cocktail reception and dinner, talent showcase, silent auction, raffle and door prizes. Early in the evening, guests mingled while listening to musical selections from the Uniondale High School Jazz Band, and browsing and bidding on the silent auction items. Guests were then invited to enter the Grand Ballroom for the main program, beginning with an invocation by Bishop R.W. Harris of Grace Cathedral. Next, all enjoyed entertainment provided by community youth, which included the music of Starboard Blue, raps by ‘Young D.C.’ Denzel Campbell, spiritual dance by Sons of Thunder and a dance performance by Lisa Fondlay.

Inspiring messages from chairmen and honorees followed, including words from the Honorable Kevan Abrahams, Arthur A. Gianelli, Arthur M. Katz and Mary-Ellen Kreye along with a special tribute to the Honorable Joseph M. Margiotta. A scholarship award was then presented to Marc Lyn of the Uniondale School District on behalf of the John J. Byrne Community Center | UNIONDALE™. Afterwards, dancing and festivities continued until the raffle and silent auction winners were announced.

The 2009 Heroes in the Community Gala was a tremendous success, having raised the organization’s goal of $50,000 towards the development of a new multiuse facility. Erica Lee, the chief operating officer of Cambridge Who’s Who Publishing, Inc., served as a member of the Community Committee. She was tasked with raising awareness about the cause, spreading the word about the fundraising gala, and generating financial contributions and ticket sales. “As a Uniondale resident for over 20 years, I am proud to be a part of the team spearheading the project to create the largest, state-of-the-art, green, multigenerational community center on Long Island,” she proclaims. “Moreover, Cambridge Who’s Who has always been a staunch supporter of educational initiatives and the creation of positive programs throughout Long Island, and looks forward to working with the Center for years to come.”

Motivated by the words, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world,” the John J. Byrne Community Center | UNIONDALE™ endeavors to improve the quality of community and family life by creating and maintaining an intergenerational, multicultural, full-service community center that provides social, health, recreational, cultural and educational opportunities for all. The 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization offers financial supporters a proven solution for social philanthropy by providing a viable, central location for agencies to support Uniondale residents at a reduced operating cost. Programs to serve the needs of children, families and seniors will include recreation and sport, health and wellness, youth mentoring and tax preparation services, among others.

Founded in 1986 and incorporated in 1988 under the 501(c)(3) IRS code, the organization opened its initial site at 800 Jerusalem Avenue in 1990. It was named after Monsignor John J. Byrne of St. Martha’s R.C. Church in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Uniondale community and exceptional ability to work with people of varied backgrounds in unity and harmony. His life has inspired the vision and course for the John J. Byrne Community Center | UNIONDALE™.




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