Over 250 friends and supporters of United Cerebral Palsy of Long Island gathered for the Life Without Limits Gala at Flowerfield in St. James, NY on October 27, 2017. This year’s event honored Kevin M. O’Connor, President & CEO of Bridgehampton National Bank. The event raised over $200,000. The funds raised will support the comprehensive programs and services that UCP of Long Island provides to thousands of children and adults with disabilities.
“Mr. O’Connor has been a great friend and supporter of our agency and the individuals we serve for many years,” said Stephen H. Friedman, President & CEO of UCP. “We are grateful for all that Kevin has done and tonight we celebrate his commitment and dedication.”
Mr. O’Connor has been involved in special events such as the Life Without Limits Gala and has hosted art exhibits for artists in UCP of Long Island’s Brushstrokes Program at branches of Bridgehampton National Bank. During the event, Brushstrokes Artist Michelle presented
Mr. O’Connor with one of her beautiful paintings to express her appreciation for his support.
The Children Center’s Ukulele Club performed “Little Hands” by Inland Sky to the delight of the audience. The newly-formed club consists of students who learn to play a variety of songs on the exotic instrument. Mr. O’Connor was inducted into the UkuleleClub that evening when the children presented him with a ukulele signed by all the club members.
After the lovely performance, Mr. Friedman introduced The Employment Connection Mobile Training & Education Center, a fully accessible vehicle that provides career services to workers with disabilities who lack easy access to transportation. Paul D’Airo, a client of The Employment Connection, shared his touching story about how the program helped him develop his self-confidence after he spent years suffering from low self-esteem. D’Airo received a standing ovation for his heartfelt testimony.
Doug Geed, Morning Anchor & Award Winning Reporter for News 12 Long Island, served as the Master of Ceremonies.
The black-tie event was co-chaired by James Manseau of Bridgehampton National Bank and Carmen Tomeo of WE Transport/Towne Bus Corp. Steve Louro of Professional Group Plans served as an Honorary Chair. The evening would not have been possible without the commitment of our generous sponsors: Bridgehampton National Bank, WE Transport/Towne Bus Corp., M&T Bank, Adventureland, Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman LLP, Clear View Building Services, Inc., Cullen & Dykman LLP, Esquire Bank, Flowerfield, Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP, People’s United Bank, Professional Group Plans, Shore Office Systems, SJS Construction, Inc., Michael & Barbara Murphy, Sterling National Bank and The Schaefer Agency.