More than 1,000 people from across Long Island are expected to participate in the 12th annual Alley Oop For Autism charity fundraiser at Jericho High School this weekend.
The event—which is expected to have a few celebrity appearances—features co-ed teams in age groups from children to adults competing in a minimum of three 10-minute basketball games. Organizers expect that this year, the event will surpass the $1 million mark in total funds raised since 2007.
“I continue to be amazed by the enthusiastic outpouring of community support for this event,” said Jericho High School alumnus Justin Resnick, who created Alley Oop For Autism, played basketball at Emory University and is now an associate at Houlihan Lokey, a leading middle-market investment bank.
“Over the past 12 years, we are proud to say that we have been able to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and families dealing with autism,” he said. “I am extremely grateful for all of the money, time, and effort invested by everyone who has been involved with the event.”
Professional athletes and other sports celebrities that previously made appearances at the event have included ESPN analyst Adam Schefter, former NBA star and current MSG studio analyst Wally Szczerbiak, former NFL star and current CBS radio host and NFL color commentator Boomer Esiason, and New York Giants football star Jay Bromley, among others.
The event is also planned by a committee that includes Resnick’s family, community advocates Joel and Debbie Levine, as well as students from Long Island and Queens. To date, approximately $980,000 has been raised through this exciting community grass roots event.
All proceeds will be donated to The Family Center For Autism in Garden City, which is the latest initiative of nonprofit Life’s WORC, and the Anderson Center for Autism.
“The dynamics for this occasion and the way it comes together is an excellent model that demonstrates how charity and giving can ignite and gain momentum to benefit many,” said Matt Zebatto, assistant executive director for Life’s WORC/Family Center For Autism. “Justin Resnick deserves recognition for the unique legacy he has provided through Jericho High School.”
Jericho High School is located at 99 Cedar Swamp Rd. in Jericho. The event is scheduled for 12-6:60 p.m. Saturday, March 24. Spectators pay $5 and five-person teams pay $40 per player. For more details, visit alleyoopforautism.org
Full disclosure: Life’s WORC was founded by Long Island Press co-publisher Victoria Schneps-Yunis.
