People's Arc of Suffolk, which provides program and services to children and adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities on Long Island, hosted its Annual Candlelight Ball at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook recently.
With more than 400 guests in attendance, the evening honored Mell Goldman, CEO and Owner of All Boro Construction, for his outstanding leadership, community commitment, and ongoing support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
“Mell has led All Boro Construction with a focus on integrity, partnership, and giving back,” John McGuigan, CEO of People’s Arc of Suffolk. “His company has been a steadfast supporter of initiatives that improve accessibility and promote inclusion for people with disabilities throughout Suffolk County.”
This year’s Candlelight Ball was more than a celebration—it was a showcase of the talents, creativity, and achievements of the people served by People’s Arc. The evening began with a People’s Arc Purple Carpet, a pre-event interview experience inspired by the evening’s celebrity emcees, Jenn Seelig and Alex Calamia from News 12 Long Island. Budding journalists from People’s Arc’s own Arc-TV program hosted live interviews, greeting guests and putting their communication and hosting skills into practice. The project grew out of the group’s ongoing work at the Northport Community Performing Art Center, where program participants have been building skills in interviewing, storytelling, and stage performance.
“Watching our program participants run the Purple Carpet with confidence and enthusiasm was a perfect example of what People’s Arc is all about—empowerment, visibility, and inclusion,” said Mary Fu, Chief Advancement Office at People’s Arc of Suffolk. “We don’t just talk about putting people first; we make sure their voices and talents are at the center of everything we do.”
During the evening, artist Dylan Hippner of Komodo Art unveiled several of his unique art pieces, including one that was co-created with members from the People’s Arc of Suffolk Adult Day Hab program, inspired by their interests and telling a story of overcoming challenges in their life and how art helps them express themselves. The piece was finished live at the reception and auctioned off for $3,000.
The Candlelight Ball is one of People’s Arc of Suffolk’s signature fundraising events, supporting a wide range of programs, from employment and education to arts, recreation, and community living.
About People’s Arc of Suffolk
People’s Arc of Suffolk is a not-for-profit organization which provides programs and services to children and adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities on Long Island. Currently more than 2,500 people receive educational, vocational, residential and employment services through People’s Arc of Suffolk’s 42 facilities, including residential, educational, vocational and recreational programs. Follow People’s Arc of Suffolk on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.