Nothing reaffirms faith in humanity more than when a community comes together for a good cause. Inside Louie’s Oyster Bar & Grille in Port Washington, residents and friends gathered to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation with the help of one very special man.
Michael McGlynn is the general manager of Louie’s Oyster Bar & Grille. He recently cohosted a fundraiser at Louie’s called Help Us Help Kids, which raised more than $16,000 for Make-A-Wish Metro New York, headquartered in Lake Success. McGlynn cohosted the event with Make-A-Wish Advisory Board Member Gina LoBello.
The Manhasset and Port Washington communities joined many of LoBello’s colleagues from Northwell Health as they gathered at this sold-out event to enjoy craft beer, Louie’s spectacular seafood and help the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
“When Gina first came to me with the idea for the event, I thought it was a great idea,” said McGlynn. “The owners and I would always talk about a way to get involved with a fundraiser. The combination of the amazing work that Make-A-Wish does and Gina’s passion for the project were exactly the right fit at the right time,” said McGlynn.
The night was a tremendous success and exceeded all expectations, thanks to McGlynn’s commitment, Louie’s Oyster Bar & Grille’s wonderful staff and their kind vendors.
“We were able to create a beautiful spread and provide a great variety of beer,” said McGlynn. “Many people took the time to thank me, rave about the food and speak of the positive energy in the room that night. It was such a great success that we have already set the date for next year.”
Perhaps the most poignant moment of the evening was when four wish alumni families shared their experiences and reflections on the long-lasting impact of a wish with the guests.
“It was a fantastic evening,” said Gail Monaco, senior director, corporate philanthropy, Make-A-Wish Metro New York and Western New York. “The outpouring of support from the community was inspiring. We are beyond grateful to Mike McGlynn, Louie’s Oyster Bar & Grille and Gina LoBello for their efforts to bring our community together to help the kids we serve dream big, fight hard and believe in the magic of a wish come true.”
McGlynn said that everyone at Louie’s is looking forward to outdoing themselves at the next event to raise even more money.
“Make-A-Wish is a great organization that really makes a difference in the lives of children during their most difficult times,” said McGlynn. “We were honored to be part of this great event.”
