Guild says thanks to supporters

The Guild for Exceptional Children (GEC) hosted a Community Appreciation Luncheon on Tuesday, June 16 to recognize and thank people who have been “exceptional friends” in helping strengthen the GEC’s mission, which is to help people with developmental disabilities lead dignified and satisfying lives.

“It was just a very nice, warm and caring event that we can say thank you to so many who care for our organization,” said Caroline Mansuetto, the GEC’s associate executive director of development. “We spotlight and honor those who have helped us strengthen our mission through the year.”

The event took place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the GEC’s main building at 260 68^th Street. The event began with a musical presentation by the GEC’s preschoolers, and seven honorees were recognized for their generous, overwhelming support for the organization. The honorees included Don Clark from Alleycat Exterminating, Mary Coughlin from Sure Step Physical Therapy, Mitch Goldstein, Captain Raymond Festino from the 68^th Precinct, Inna Trinidad and Paul Apolonio from Kaleidoscope Toy Store, Steve Marchetti and Karen Tadross.

“It was warm and inviting, and to have the young kids sing songs for us with gusto and joy, that I appreciated more than anything,” Tadross said.

All of the honorees were presented with original artwork created by some of GEC’s talented program participants.

 “I was very humbled to receive the award,” Tadross said. “We should be honoring them, not the other way around.”