Huntington Foundation Celebrates Public Education

With the Water’s Edge in Centerport providing a gorgeous backdrop, the Huntington Foundation threw a party, raising tens of thousands of dollars at its annual Reach for the Stars gala, which celebrated public education along with the organization’s 30th anniversary.

The evening had all the required ingredients to assure a great time for a crowd numbering the hundreds.There was fine food, music, dancing, raffle prizes and good friends spanning the gamut of the school community.

The Huntington Foundation for Excellence in Education has donated more than $1.1 million in goods and services to the district since its founding more than three decades ago.

The Huntington Foundation’s Spirit Award was presented to Huntington High School Dean of Student Support Robert Gilmor III and Helping Hands Rescue Mission President and Pastor Rev. Kimberly Gaines-Gambino. The duo joins a long list of previous recipients who have left their mark on the district and community.

The crowd bought thousands of chances on dozens of high quality raffle baskets stuffed with items donated by local businesses and community members. Proceeds from the gala will go toward replenishing funds for the HFEE grant program that encourages innovative programs and equipment.

“It was a beautiful event and a great night to, once again, celebrate all things Huntington,” Superintendent James W. Polansky said.  “Sincere thanks to the Huntington Foundation for everything they do in support of our children and schools. We are as excited to implement this year’s grant-funded initiatives as we have been every year. Additional, well-earned thank you’s to Mr. Gilmor and Reverend Kim for their unwavering commitment to and support for our children and community.”

The Huntington Foundation’s executive board consists of Jennifer Stevens (president), Meghan Knieriem (chief financial officer), Jennifer Hebert (vice president-grants), Jennifer Biancardo (vice president-grants administration/gala chairperson), Michele Sabatino (secretary), Jennifer Tullo (public relations/marketing officer) and Tara Poli (vice president-development).

The organization’s board includes Liz Matthews (PTA liaison), Janine Luca (meeting coordinator), Kim Einemann (graphic design/marketing), Gina Leiter (gala support) and Maryann Driscoll (marketing).

HFEE volunteers include Kelly Donovan (social media), Allison Von Vange (teacher liaison), Kacey Knauer (general support), Amanda Sturges (general support), Kim O’Toole (general support) and Liz Carecchia (general support). Youth Board members include Anna Bell Young, McKenna Buffa, Danielle Luca and Talia Addeo.