The night belonged to giving back to those who have continuously given so much to their community.
On Friday October 23, the Guild for Exceptional Children hosted its annual autumn gala celebration. The event, held at Coney Island’s Gargiulo’s, 2911 West 15th Street. This gathering was special for the GEC, not only because it was in honor of the GEC’s 57 years of service to children and adults living with developmental disabilities but it also celebrated a number of honorees who have helped the organization: John Cambio Jr., the Community Mayors, Michael Delgado, Investors Bank, Dr. Thomas McGloin, Rita and Felix “Flip” Mullen, Ilene Sacco and Barbara Slattery.
“Each honoree has helped to make a difference in the GEC community and the community at large,” said the GEC’s Director of Development Caroline Mansuetto, She also paid tribute to supporters, sponsors and guests for showing the GEC community their support over the years.
Welcomed back was Ken Rosato, anchor, WABC-TV Eyewitness News, as master of ceremonies for the third year. Rosato also conducted the “live auction” portion of the evening. Items auctioned included a Barclays Center suite including tickets to an Islanders Game and a wine-tasting at a winery in Staten Island accompanied by a cooler and bottles of wine.
“The overall feeling of the event was absolutely spectacular; there was a lot of energy,” added Mansuetto, who said that the turnout was over 250 guests.