Event to honor Steve and Beth Napolillo for their long-standing contributions.
The fall events season gets underway soon. With so many options for businesses and individuals to support area causes, there will be ways for everyone to brighten the lives of others.
One charitable organization, A Wish Come True—the oldest wish-granting organization in Rhode Island and Massachusetts,—will host its “Wishes Take Flight” Gala on Saturday, September 28th, at the Crowne Plaza Pavilion in Warwick.
Event festivities begin at 6:00 PM, featuring a cocktail hour. Other activities include a sit-down dinner, dancing, music provided by the Rug Burn Band, live and silent auctions, and more. Providence College Athletic Director Steve Napolillo and his wife, Beth, will be presented with the prestigious 2024 A Wish Come True Lifetime Impact Award for their contributions and commitment to helping others.
A Wish Come True Executive Director Mary-Kate O’Leary said that recognizing the Napolillo’s for their efforts was easy.
“Steve and Beth are unsung heroes for making our mission their priority,” she said. “Their time and efforts toward helping our ‘Wish Kids’ means so much. The couple devotes their resources to help so many Wish Kids and their families realize that there are people who do make dreams come true. Over the years, it is estimated that Steve and Beth have connected donors and raised over $1.2 million towards granting wishes through their own private events, golf tournaments and leadership gifts at every A Wish Come True fundraising function.”
The couple has strong ties with A Wish Come True. Last fall, the organization dedicated a playroom and relaxation center in their Coventry office to Steve’s late father, Bob. “Nap’s Nook is an incredible way to honor such commitment by this family. The celebration was marked with several members of the PC Friars Men’s Basketball team in attendance, and it is anticipated they will be present on September 28th, along with many from the Providence College Friars family that love them as much as A Wish Come True.
Steve, who has been involved with A Wish Come True for more than two decades, said the honor is humbling to both of them.
“Beth and I are humbled about A Wish Come True celebrating our outreach over the last 21 years,” he said. “This is a cause that has deep roots within our entire family. It’s truly unbelievable for us to accept this award, but it would never have happened without the strength and support of the people working alongside us to make a difference for these families.”
Massey and Associates, Inc., is the Gala’s Presenting Sponsor. Massey and Associates, Inc., known for their unwavering commitment to community engagement and philanthropy, embody the spirit of compassion and generosity that defines the Gala. Their support not only helps make wishes a reality, but also inspires others to join in their mission of spreading happiness and creating unforgettable experiences for deserving children.
“We are honored to serve as the presenting sponsor for the Gala,” said Jeff Massey, Founder and CEO of Massey and Associates, Inc. “Supporting initiatives that bring joy and comfort to children facing adversity aligns perfectly with our core values. We are excited to be part of such a meaningful cause and look forward to making a positive impact in the lives of these courageous children.”
There is still time to become involved as the organization is seeking sponsorships, ticket and table sales. and of course donations in honor of the Napolillo family. For sponsorship opportunities or to learn more about the A Wish Come True Gala, please visit www.awish.org, or contact Pamela Bhatia, Director of Philanthropy and Communications at 401-781-9199.
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A Wish Come True grants wishes and provides resources to families that have a child struggling with a life-threatening illness, living in Rhode Island or Massachusetts. Last year, they celebrated their 40th anniversary and granted 43 wishes to children and their families. This was a significant jump from granting 19 wishes in 2022. They already have 15 Wish Children waiting for their magical wish in 2024, and they are funded through the generosity of the community. What makes A Wish Come True different is that they embrace the family along the journey, before, during, and after the wish. This includes supporting wish families through their Meghan Duffy Hardship Fund. Since January, over $30,000 of financial support has been given to 22 families in need to support rent, utilities, home repairs, medical bills, car repairs, gas and groceries. Gift certificates are needed to further help families.
Additional information May be found by contacting Mary-Kate O’Leary at Marykate@awishcometrue.org, 401-644-2237. Or, visit the website at www.awish.org to learn more about their work, upcoming e events and how to participate in the Gala.
