United Way of Long Island honored organizations, individuals and labor unions at its annual LIVE UNITED Celebration Luncheon held on Wednesday, May 8 at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. This fundraiser is supported by generous sponsors, including Bethpage Federal Credit Union. This is the company’s tenth year as title sponsor.
The event raised an unprecedented amount of $816,000, making this luncheon one of the largest yearly philanthropic events on Long Island. The LIVE UNITED Celebration Luncheon welcomed over 900 guests to honor those who share United Way’s vision in creating lasting positive change for current and future generations in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.
Three awards were presented to honor leaders who have demonstrated continued generosity and commitment to advance the organization’s mission to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community on Long Island.
Theresa Regnante, president and CEO of United Way of Long Island, remarked on the impact that the 2019 award recipients have made: “We are grateful to partner with our honorees who are in a position to give generously, both their time and their funds, to support the initiatives and programs of United Way of Long Island. It is because their commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of their neighbors that our organization can directly impact the lives of over 325,000 Long Island residents each year.”
In addition there was a special ceremony from Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, president of SUNY Old Westbury, who presented United Way of Long Island’s YouthBuild students with their TASC diplomas.
Honorees included Robert Andrew Wild, chairman of Garfunkel Wild P.C. located in Great Neck, who was named the Anthony J. Stupore Memorial LIVE UNITED Volunteer Champion in honor of his selflessness and commitment to volunteer service. Wild is a founding member of the law firm Garfunkel Wild, P.C. and has served on United Way of Long Island’s Board of Directors since 2000. He was chair of the board from 2008 to 2011 and is a member of the executive committee. Wild is an invaluable asset to United Way of Long Island by sharing his legal expertise and supporting an array of programs and services throughout Long Island.
GEICO was named the LIVE UNITED Corporate Champion in recognition of the company’s ability to mobilize and enhance the community. GEICO is United Way of Long Island’s leading corporate partner, and is especially generous through its workplace giving campaign; the company gives $1 million in funds annually through both associate donations and the GEICO Philanthropic Foundation’s matching program. For over 40 years, GEICO has been committed to volunteerism and community engagement on behalf of United Way of Long Island. Their associates’ philanthropic spirit is evident in their volunteer campaigns, including organizing a supply drive that collected 2,000 pounds of necessities for veterans. GEICO continues to contribute to a range of programs including Mission United, Stuff-A-Bus and Project Warmth.
The Building & Construction Trades Council of Nassau & Suffolk Counties was named the LIVE UNITED Labor Champion in recognition of their efforts to employ and promote union labor, thereby supporting the local economy. The organization works tirelessly with United Way of Long Island to offer career training and placement opportunities to VetsBuild and YouthBuild graduates. The Building & Construction Trades Council of Nassau & Suffolk Counties’ apprenticeship opportunities provide veterans and young adults with the education and financial stability needed to foster a stable, regional workforce and thriving community on Long Island.
To learn more about the LIVE UNITED Celebration Luncheon, and other ways to support United Way of Long Island, visit www.unitedwayli.org.
