Celebrating 80 Years of Inspiring Strength and Lifelong Success

Join Us in Honoring Our Legacy

For eight decades, we have been committed to empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Discover our journey and join us in celebrating this milestone.

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Countdown to Our 80th Anniversary Celebration at Oak Hill Country Club

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Be a Part of History

We are proud to celebrate 80 years of this remarkable organization on May 16 in the new ballroom at Oak Hill Country Club! This milestone celebration honors the visionaries who started it all, as well as our families, staff, partners, and others across our community who have strengthened our mission through generations.

In line with our celebration of legacy and commitment to success, we are also proud to honor Mr. B. Thomas Golisano during this anniversary gala, in recognition of his dedication to ensuring Holy Childhood can provide vital services and programs to people of all abilities. We also recognize his unwavering commitment to the broader community and the countless lives he’s helped strengthen.

As we reflect on eight decades of progress and impact, we also look ahead with renewed commitment to the continuum of opportunity that defines who we are, ensuring the next 80 years are just as strong and full of possibility.

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Honoring Mr. B. Thomas Golisano

We extend our deepest appreciation to Mr. Golisano for his longstanding generosity and steadfast support of Holy Childhood.

His commitment has played a vital role in enabling us to continue providing essential services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His contributions have had a meaningful impact, not only on our organization, but on the broader community as well.

Because of his kindness and contributions, we will be honoring Mr. Golisano during this year’s gala celebration.

Honoring Honorable John Schwartz

This year, we are happy to announce that we will also be recognizing Honorable John Schwartz for his time and dedication to our agency with the Sister Seraphine Award.

Our Legacy of Service

In 1946, Sister St. Mark McMahon saw the need for special education classes for school-aged children with intellectual and developmental disabilities who were falling through the cracks of the traditional education system. Because of that, Sister St. Mark, along with the Sisters of St. Joseph founded Holy Childhood.

The focus was on Education and Vocational Training. Academic subjects were adapted to each student’s level, pace and ability. This focus remains the same today and a multitude of programs have been added. In the School Program and the Adult Program, academics and program areas such as Activities of Daily Living, integration in the community through Work-Based Learning, Supported Employment and many other individualized programs continue to help prepare people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for an independent, happy, and fulfilling life.

We are so proud to be celebrating 80 years of this wonderful organization this year, on May 16 at Oak Hill Country Club.

What to Expect at This Year's Gala

Pre-Dinner Cocktails and Hors d’oeuvres

Guests will be welcomed with an elegant pre‑dinner reception featuring handcrafted cocktails and a selection of refined hors d’oeuvres.

Five-Course Dinner With Wine Pairings

Enjoy a curated five‑course dinner, each dish paired with a complementary wine selection. The menu is designed to showcase exceptional flavors and highlight seasonal flavors.

Live and Silent Auctions

Participate in both live and silent auctions featuring an array of exceptional items and one-of-a-kind experiences.

After-Dinner Drinks, Cordials, and Coffee

Conclude the evening with a selection of after‑dinner drinks, cordials, and freshly brewed coffee. It’s a warm and relaxed finish to the night, offering a moment to unwind.

Celebration Fireworks

Guests will gather for a spectacular celebration fireworks display to close the evening on a memorable note.

Our Dedicated Gala

Committee Co-Chairs

This year’s gala is stronger and more inspiring thanks to the dedication of our Gala Committee Co‑Chairs, Michael and Cheryl Coppola, and Bobby and Kristin Carlin. Their leadership and countless hours of work have elevated every detail, and we’re extremely grateful. As you read their reflections on what Holy Childhood means to them, you’ll see the passion that guided them in taking on this role.

“Holy Childhood means a lot to our family. Jason is loved and accepted here. They give Jason a sense of pride and belonging. We know that Jason is seen and understood and he’s happy!”

-Bobby and Kristin Carlin

“For more than 15 years, Holy Childhood has been so much more than a school or day program for Ty—it’s been family! It’s a happy, fun, and safe place filled with love, laughter, and learning, where Ty is loved, gets to be himself, and we never have to worry. We’re so grateful for this special place and the amazing people who truly feel like part of our family.”

-Michael and Cheryl Coppola

Thank you, Sponsors

Gold Sponsor

Wine Sponsor

Fireworks Sponsor

Main Course Sponsor

Specialty Cocktail Sponsor

Second Course Sponsor

Dessert Course Sponsor

Bar/Cocktail Hour Sponsor

Photographer Sponsor

We thank you.

Looking to get involved as a sponsor?

Want to be a sponsor for this year’s Gala? Contact our Coordinator of Fundraising and Special Events, Marianne Tucker, at mtucker@holychildhood.org, or click the “secure a sponsorship” button.

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Holy Childhood 80th Anniversary Gala