The 35th Annual Reach for a Star Luncheon, presented by Americana Manhasset, is sure to be a WICKED good time. Jennifer DiNoia, who plays Elphaba in Broadway’s smash hit WICKED, will perform a song set at the milestone fundraiser on April 4 at the Crest Hollow Country Club. The Reach for a Star Luncheon benefits extracurricular and after-school programs for children with severe physical disabilities from the Henry Viscardi School at The Viscardi Center.
Based in Albertson, New York, the Henry Viscardi School serves children and young adults (Kindergarten to age 21) who often require special transportation and life-sustaining medical care throughout the day. Its specialized educational setting provides a fully-enriched academic program, a variety of therapies, assistive technology, and medical supports for students who would otherwise need to receive instruction in their homes or at a hospital.
For many children with disabilities, options for socializing outside of the classroom remain limited. The Reach for a Star Luncheon raises vital funds for clubs, adapted sports, and recreational overnights that afford Viscardi students the means to safely spend time with friends outside of school, broaden their interests, and share new experiences. It also gives student attendees the opportunity to enjoy live Broadway music and share the spotlight with DiNoia on stage.
The event offers an elaborate cocktail hour, sit-down lunch, Chance Raffle and Silent Auction, and live entertainment. Past entertainers have included Chilina Kennedy, star of Broadway’s Beautiful – The Carole King Musical; Hoda Kotb, co-host of NBC’s TODAY’s fourth hour and correspondent for Dateline NBC; cast members from Broadway’s Kinky Boots; and Elise Testone, a finalist on American Idol.
For more information about tickets and sponsorships, please visit us at ViscardiCenter.org/luncheon or contact Linda Tibbals at 516.465.1595.
About The Viscardi Center
Founded by Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr., who served as disability advisor to eight U.S. Presidents and became one of the world’s leading advocates, The Viscardi Center educates, employs and empowers children and adults with disabilities. It provides Kindergarten through High School education, school-to-work youth transition services, vocational training, career counseling and placement, assistive technology, adapted driver education and workforce diversification assistance to children, adolescents and adults with disabilities, and business