Dinner and dancing for a cause

The second annual Secaucus Community Ball on Oct. 6 drew more than 500 people who gathered for an evening of dinner and dancing to benefit Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center.
The event, which was sponsored by the town, Hartz Mountain Industries, and the K&S Social and Athletic Club, helped raise money through ticket sales, individual and corporate donations, a silent auction, and raffles. Prizes won during the evening included a flat screen television; two-night stays at New York and local hotels; an outdoor grill; and $500 gift certificates to local shopping venues, among others.
“This event brings people together in a nonpolitical atmosphere all for a great cause,” said Mayor Michael Gonnelli.

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“This event brings people together in a nonpolitical atmosphere all for a great cause.” – Mayor Michael Gonnelli.
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Local officials, residents, friends, and family came out to La Quinta Inn for a special evening to celebrate the community and show support for the nearby hospital that treats a number of children from Secaucus. The Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital was recognized as one of the top 25 children’s hospitals in the country in 2001 and 2003 and as the top-ranked children’s hospital in New Jersey by “Child” magazine.
Last year the mayor and council sought to have a nonpartisan community ball to support a worthy cause. The first event raised $40,000 for Tomorrows Children’s Fund (TCF), a nonprofit organization founded by parents of children with cancer and blood disorders, which is affiliated with the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital. Three-year-old Ave Rose Krajewski of Secaucus, who has been treated at the hospital for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, was present at this year’s community fundraiser, along with a number of other children.

Adriana Rambay Fernández may be reached at afernandez@hudsonreporter.com.