An evening of elegance, music, prizes — and surprises galore — plus plenty of community giving, came to life at the On Your Mark Annual Spring Gala in Nicotra’s Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn, where some 600 revelers attended to benefit individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The evening also served as a celebration of the organization’s achievements and ensured the continuation of its impactful programs that benefit special needs individuals and allowed On Your Mark to expand services.
Throughout the years, On Your Mark has made a commitment to enhance the lives of its participants. Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis presented On Your Mark with a donation of federal funds — $1.5 million — earmarked for renovations of the organization’s fitness center and elevator in its building at Victory Boulevard and Forest Avenue in West Brighton.
On Your Mark lauded members of the South Shore Kiwanis Club and its president, Tom Conte, and the North Central Kiwanis Club of Staten Island and its president, Richard Kerney, for their year-long, support of the organization.
Nadia Fabozzi, interim director of development at On Your Mark, said, “Every day I’m privileged to be on staff at On Your Mark. We are truly blessed. And thanks to the On Your Mark board of directors for leading the way for us.”, welcomed all to the event with special thanks to On Your Mark families and friends.
“On Your Mark has once again experienced growth and has opened up new avenues for opportunity for our individuals,” said John Bilotti, executive director. “Your steadfast support has played a significant role in this achievement. It is through your generosity and commitment that we are able to maintain the highest standards of service, love and companionship for our participants. Over the past year, On Your Mark has continued to evolve and innovate, restructuring, reevaluating and revitalizing our cherished programs, services and facilities. Tonight’s event will be an opoortunity to showcase our recent accomplishments and to honor those individuals whose daily actions embody the very essence of our mission.”
Bilotti explained that this year they were privileged to present an award that is extremely dear to them, The Judge G. Trager Memorial Community Recognition Award.“It is so important to give the award to the South Shore Kiwanis Club,” he stated. “Every year they extend an invitation to On Your Mark individuals granting them the experience of attending the Christmas Show at Radio City Music Hall. The cherished tradition has transformed into a source of boundless excitement and anticipation for our individuals, allowing them to feel like true superstars.”