The Crowne Plaza Pavilion in Warwick, provided the perfect backdrop for the oldest wish-granting organization in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and now, Connecticut, on September 28th. It was there, that A Wish Come True’s “Wishes Take Flight,” not only generated much-needed funds to help kids ages 3-18, who are battling life-threatening illnesses, but to also honor the dedication of Providence College Athletic Director Steve Napolillo and his wife, Beth, who received the 2024 A Wish Come True Lifetime Impact Award for their contributions.
More than 500 people attended the event, which included a live auction, dinner, dancing, and presentations of courage, in the face of their diagnosis. The event raised more than $628,000 to continue their mission of reaching more families in the region. This is the best event they have ever had!
Executive Director Mary-Kate O’Leary said that the outpouring of support from those who attended, businesses that supported the cause, and community involvement, all contributed to this event being successful.
“I can’t put into words the outpouring of support we received to help these brave children and their families,” said O’Leary, who has steered the charitable organization for five years. “Honoring Steve and Beth was easy. They have invested more than two decades helping to raise money, and devoted their time and support to aiding these wonderful families and their wishes.”
The Napolillos have 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.
During his remarks, Steve recalled the number of functions his family hosted over the years at their home, and throughout the state. There was one “Wish Kid” that was especially moving for him personally. One of the Wish kids, James, wanted to visit Yankees Stadium in New York to see a Yankees game. Arrangements were made to accommodate the family. The family had a wonderful day at the Stadium. When they returned from the trip, Steve invited the family to their home. He took James to his room full of Yankees and Providence College memorabilia, and told him to pick out whatever item he wanted.
Napolillo joked that he sweated out that decision.
“I own a signed Derek Jeter jersey. I don’t know what I would have done had he picked that,” Steve told the crowd. “He ended up selecting a signed photo of Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, and was so happy. It was such a moment to see his reaction.”
Sadly, the boy succumbed to his battle at the age of 16. Not only did it hit the family hard, but it also hurt Steve and Beth, just as much. Remembering their prior meeting, Steve and Beth made a special presentation:
He gifted that signed Derek Jeter jersey to the family, as a tribute to his life and spirit.
Among the items up for bids were one-of-a-kind experiences, such as spending a night in Boston to watch the World Champion Boston Celtics, traveling to watch a Providence College Friars Men’s Basketball game in the city of the winner’s choice (which included dinner with Coach Kim English), a golf foursome at Newport Country Club, and trips to Bryce Canyon, Key West, and Tuscany. Bidding turned into a spirited race in a few cases. All in all, it was a victory for everyone, according to the executive director.
“The real winners were those who will benefit from their generosity,” O’Leary said.
Also in attendance were members of the Providence College Friars Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams, as well as other members of the community.
O’Leary thanked the numerous local businesses that came out to support the event. Chief among them was the event’s presenting sponsor, Massey and Associates, Inc., and its owner, Jeff Massey. He said that his involvement with A Wish Come True spans a few years, and he is pleased to see the strides O’Leary, her staff, and the Board have made in the past half-decade.
“Mary-Kate helped turn a non-profit that was struggling when she started (there), into one that has a $1.4 million budget,” Massey told those gathered. “She continues to reach those who need help. We are proud to partner with Mary-Kate and her organization to make these wishes happen.”
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 and Massachusetts. Last year, they granted 43 wishes to children and their families. This was a significant jump from granting 19 wishes in 2022. They have already granted 24 wish children, and have 10 more scheduled through December.
For more details regarding A Wish Come True, including their upcoming events, such as the 21st Annual Polar Plunge at Easton’s Beach in Newport on New Year’s Day 2025, please visit their website at www.awish.org. Or, please call them at 402-781-9199, during normal business hours.
