On Wednesday, June 14 over 600 supporters gathered at United Way of Long Island’s United Together Celebration, raising more than $715,000. Guests celebrated the collective impact people and organizations have made in the region through United Way of Long Island. Along with title sponsor Bethpage Federal Credit Union, three extraordinary United Way Champions and community advocates (pictured below) were recognized.
Theresa Regnante, President & CEO of United Way of Long Island, introduced Rochelle and her children, who found themselves in a precarious situation when they were forced to live in a shelter due to their financial struggles. Rochelle’s determination and hard work paid off when she was able to secure a job and move into an apartment. They will continue to have access to resources through United Way of Long Island’s Family Support Project to achieve financial stability and build a brighter future. “Compassion starts with kindness and fuels the generous spirit that we all possess,” Theresa said. “When we reach out a hand to one, we influence the condition of all.”
Gene M. Bernstein, Chairman of the Board of Northville Industries and Chair of United Way’s Project Warmth Fuel Fund, received the Anthony J. Stupore Memorial Volunteer Champion Award for his distinguished history of volunteer service and profound commitment to advance the common good. The award was presented by Aaron Choo, Vice Chair of United Way of Long Island’s Executive Committee and Vice President Gas Field Operations and Programs–Downstate, National Grid.
Brookhaven National Laboratory was recognized with the Corporate Champion Award for their ability to mobilize and enhance the community through innovation. Presented by Bob Catell, Co-chair of United Way of Long Island’s Net Zero Energy Building Committee and Chairman of the Advanced Energy Research and Technology Center at Stonybrook University, the Lab has been an exceptional United Way of Long Island partner for over three decades.
John J. Murphy, International Representative of the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada accepted the Labor Champion Award. Matty Aracich, member of United Way of Long Island’s Board of Directors and President of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties, presented the award for John’s outstanding efforts to help better people’s lives through dedicated service.
David Calone, United Way of Long Island Board Member and CEO, Jove Equity Partners LLC
Richard Kessel, United Way of Long Island Board Member and President, East Coast Progressive Energy Solutions
