Community Corner
Relay for Life Holds Fundraiser at Blackbird's Grille
Great turnout from community to support American Cancer Society.
Relay for Life, which supports the efforts of the American Cancer Society, held a fundraising event at in Sayville last Friday. The event was run by Sayville’s own Jennifer Hoek.
The event kicked off at 8 p.m. and guests were able to purchase a bracelet for $10, which gave them happy hour pricing on drinks all night. All the proceeds go directly to the American Cancer Society, since the Relay for Life program is a volunteer organization.
Hoek said, "I ended up selling approximately 85 bracelets but there were many more people in attendance than the bracelets that I sold. We raised $1,100 by the end of the night and the lucky 50/50 winner took home $226. In addition to the 50/50 and the bracelets we acquired an extra $100.00 from generous donors throughout the night."
Hoek started working with Relay for Life almost a decade ago, while she was a student in the Sayville School District. She also brought along many family members and friends to help spread the word about Relay for Life’s efforts. The band, Tonight’s Entertainment, also donated their time to play the event beginning around 9 p.m.
Hoek did some Web advertising and social media networking to publicize the event and in the end, her efforts definitely paid off with a full house. She chose Blackbirds, she said, because they are a known supporter of charitable causes, and because she frequents the restaurant quite often. “It was just good exposure for both of us,” she said.
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"What a turnout. I don't think any of us expected the crowd that came out for Jennifer's cause.... she worked hard and it showed," said Kristen Carew, events coordinator and catering manager at Blackbird's Grille. "The Black and Little Families, as well as our entire staff, really strive to serve our community through what we know how to do best – providing a great atmosphere. It was all of our neighbors who made the night a success."
Hoek also expressed her appreciation. "I am so thankful for those who came down to not only support the cause but myself as well because the large majority of people who always attend my fundraisers are friends and family," Hoek said. "But also I am thankful that the owners and staff at Blackbirds were so readily available to help with anything I needed. They jumped on board right away when I inquired about hosting the fundraiser there and were wonderful every step of the way. Lastly the band, Tonight's Entertainment, of whom are all very good friends of mine for donating their time which is very precious to them these days with their busy schedules!"
For more information on Relay for Life, which will be taking place June 18-19, visit www.relayforlife.org/sayvilleny.