The Michael Napoleone Memorial Foundation is busy planning their two biggest fundraisers. Co-directors Mark and Laurie Napoleone created the foundation in memory of their son, Michael, who passed away from Burkitt’s Lymphoma in 2006.
The Foundation was started in 2007, and its mission is to Lend a Hand for Hope to assist families with the challenges of a pediatric cancer diagnosis throughout the Western New York area, support research efforts in the area of childhood cancers, and provide assistance to youth activities and programs.
To date the Foundation has: Assisted 290 families and given over $220,000 in support, contributed $56,000 to Pediatric Cancer Research, donated $38,000 to youth sports/organizations, and pledged $50,000 to the new Golisano Children’s Hospital in Rochester.
First -- it’s "Off to the Races" as the foundation prepares for its Derby Day Gala 2016, a fundraising event held in conjunction with the running of the 142nd Kentucky Derby. It is held from 3 to 9 p.m. on May 7 at Terry Hills Golf Course and Banquet Facility in Batavia. Admission is $75 per person and there are $1500, $2500, or $5,000 Sponsorships available.
Ticket includes hors d’oeuvres, grazing stations, an amazing dessert table, beer, wine and soda, a professional photo, live music by Dave Stoll, and a randomly selected gaming ticket for the Kentucky Derby. Live and silent auctions will be held and awards given for best Derby Hat and Best Derby Attire. For more information, go to www.michaelshope.org or call 585-861-0550.
Next -- we are moving to the baseball diamond as the Foundation hosts an annual Memorial Day Baseball Tournament, May 27, 28 and 29th. The tournament hosts teams from the Western New York region with the following age brackets: 8 & under ( $100 fee), 10 & under ($350 fee), and 12 & under ($350 fee). For more information, contact lhale04@hotmail.com or call 585-861-0550.
If interested in learning more about the Foundation’s events or if you would like to Lend a Hand for Hope, please go to our Web site www.michaelshope.org, or call 585-861-0551.
