On Saturday July 20th HLFYA Peter Ilardi held “A Cosmic Night For A Cause” at Massapequa Bowling Alley in Massapequa, New York. This event was coordinated as Peter’s Independent Service Project. In April the event was put under way with the help of Peters parents Ann Marie & Joseph and their good friends Ernest Magliato and  Massapequa EMT Joe Rondinelli. They coordinated with the bowling alley to host the event and from then on helped with promoting the event on Social Media along with personal invites. Massapequa Lanes also promoted the event on their Social Media and web page. Both Ernest & Joe were also Lane Sponsors. The evening surpassed Peters expectations, having over 55 people attending along with NYS Assemblyman Mike Petri, NYS Order Sons & Daughters of Italy in America State President Anthony Naccorato and First Lady Mary, along with many close family and friends from both near and far, all their to help Peter make a difference. Peter chose to have the proceeds benefit HLF Community Partner The Garden of Dreams Foundation, which Peter has been a part of through enCourage Kids for many years. He wanted to give back to what has helped him through so many hurdles he has overcome.

Peter reached out to the NY Rangers, who generously donated an Adam Graves signed blade shadowboxed, Mika Zibanejad signed stick, and had NY Rangers former player Tom Laidlaw come out to the event. Tom spoke about the team, what these foundations do, took photos and even helped sell some raffles.  HLF donated a crown t shirt autographed by Henrik along with other items, The NY Mets and Yankees along with the NY Red Bulls donated game tickets, family members and friends donated items to be raffled along with local businesses, DEK superstars donated a free trial membership to their facility as well. A 50/50 was also held during the night. Peter also had direct donations, Bowling, Buffet and Lane Sponsors available for those who could not attend. A close family friend who is also part of the Garden of Dreams Foundation attended and spoke about the Dream Come True Prom that his 17 year old son attended.

The event generated over $6,000.00 and some donations are still coming in as well.

Peter is hoping to possibly hold yearly events as a HLFYA alumni to continue raising money for a cause close to him and helping other kids have their Dream Come True.

Written by 2019 HLFYA Peter Ilardi | View more photos from the event here.

School: Bay Ridge Preparatory High School, Brooklyn, New York

Person Who Inspires Me: My Parents, they have taught me how important it is to give back when you can.