A Beautiful Evening: M4A’s 2012 Annual Gala
By Laura Lazar.
On October 3, 2012, over 250 of Music for Autism’s biggest fans joined Jersey Boys Dominic Nolfi and Broadway veteran pianist Sonny Paladino at the Chelsea hotspot, Avenue, for an evening benefitting M4A and its endeavors. With cocktails sponsored by Given liquer, a performance by the guest Broadway stars, and a silent auction featuring items that ranged from shopping sprees to surfing lessons, the night was a lively celebration of the past year’s successes. At the same time, guests emerged excited about what M4A had in store for 2013 and beyond. “It was a perfect blend of fun, inspiration, and entertainment,” exclaimed Katie Drablos, a volunteer of over a year. “Music for Autism is an extraordinary organization that I am excited to volunteer with!”
The tireless efforts of the Development Committee and its Chair Jason Rich, in tandem with the indefatigable duo Nancy Amigron and Robert Accordino, created a night that not only invigorated those already active within Music for Autism, but moved new friends to become involved.
A brief video showing clips of concerts and interviews that was played halfway through the evening summarized for guests the importance of what M4A does. Most importantly, however, it was the excitedly chattering volunteers, members of the Junior Board and Board of Directors who provided a living and breathing picture of the joy inspired by each concert – both in the families that attend and the volunteers that assist. As Meaghan McKeon, guest of a member of the Junior Board, remarked, “The gala was a beautiful evening of cocktails and entertainment for a great cause. It was a true pleasure to meet team members from such a warm and welcoming organization, and to get a peek at their incredible work throughout the evening.”
The net proceeds of the event totaled $17,500 in monetary support for Music for Autism. However, the night’s true gain as all of M4A’s supporters would agree, was the emboldened spirit of community and generosity generated in all who attended. Check out some video highlights from the evening!
