Dinner, dancing & family connections at the Helen Kaplan Center’s Family Gala
The red carpet was rolled out at the American Legion in Wantagh as men and women who reside at Helen Kaplan Center arrived dressed to the nines for an evening of dinner, dancing, and celebration with family and friends.
Music filled the room as guests were welcomed with cheers and compliments. Many chose to start the evening at the balloon arch and red-carpet photo booth, eager to capture memories of the special occasion.
For John Reardon, 27, the evening got even better when he heard “Diamonds” by Rihanna begin playing.
“That’s his favorite song,” said his mom, Mary. The two immediately danced together as John smiled brightly.
After a welcome from Sallyanne Burgess, Vice President of Operations, guests enjoyed a buffet dinner catered by Wheatley Farms. Staff ensured everyone could enjoy the meal according to their dietary requirements and brought food processors.
“I like the food,” said Mike Herskovitz, who has lived at Helen Kaplan for less than a year and was delighted to spend the event with his family.
His brother, Stuart, looked around the room and summed up the atmosphere in a few simple words: “Look at all the smiles.”
During dinner, the microphone was passed around for karaoke.
One notable performance was Ruth Henderson, who sang “Respect” by Aretha Franklin. Immediately afterward, everyone started dancing. Winnie Zvonik especially enjoyed her time on the dance floor, cheering everyone on with a huge smile. There were plenty of light-up wands to go around, adding energy and color to the dance floor.
The inspiration for the Family Gala came after the success of last year’s Friendsgiving. Staff wanted to create another opportunity for the men and women who reside at The Center to enjoy a night out in the community while spending quality time with their families.
The Family Gala was planned by Marta Garavito, Director; Inez McDannell, QIDP; Renee D’Avanzo, Medical Appointment Coordinator; managers; Direct Support Professionals; and other essential staff.
“It’s paramount,” Marta said. “We want to make sure we are part of the community.”
To look and feel their best, staff ensured each person had nice clothes for the evening, and if they needed a suit or dress, they shopped for one.
“It’s a fun time for them, and it’s great,” Inez McDannell, QIDP, said. “They love getting their pictures taken, and you don’t see everybody dressed up on a daily basis, so it’s nice to see that.”
The excitement continued long after the evening ended. The next day, guests lit up when they saw the event photos and requested print copies.
And family members were thrilled, giving Marta positive feedback on their way out and afterward.
“It’s an opportunity for families to see staff in a different light, and for families to get to know each other and see all the positive things that happen,” Marta said.