The Cape and Islands United Way will celebrate its 25th anniversary Best Night Gala this year by honoring 25 people who played a key role in the early stages of the annual fundraising event.
This year’s gala – set for Friday, June 23, 2023 at the Pelham House Resort in Dennis – will honor the past while investing for the future. “Without the support and visionary leadership of these people, Best Night would not be the signature fundraising and engagement event it is today,” noted Mark Skala, president/CEO of the Cape and Islands United Way.
Without the support and visionary leadership of these people, Best Night would not be the signature fundraising and engagement event it is today.
“When talking with many from this group, they hoped and dared to dream it could become a signature summer event,” Skala said. “Here we are 25 years later and going strong.”
Over the past 25 years, supporters and sponsors of Best Night have raised more than $3 million, funding collaborations with 1,000 local nonprofit programs, and clocked more than 4,500 volunteer hours.
Honoring 25
The group of 25 includes the first chair of Best Night, Peter Meyer, along with a host of business, community and civic supporters. Some awards will be presented posthumously. Meyer said each of these individuals played an important role in the formidable years of Best Night.
Steve Cundall, chair of the CIUW Board of Directors, said the board is thrilled to recognize the impact of these people. “What a wonderful, living tribute to these visionaries and pioneers,” Cundall noted. “Their generosity and passion for helping has been an inspiration to so many others who have, and will again, make this the best night of the year.”
Visionary Award recipients will include:
Rick and Angie Angelini
Carrie Bearse
Chuck Bilezikian (posthumously) and Doreen Bilezikian
James Botsford
Richard Brother
Susan Butler and Patrick Butler (posthumously)
Jenny Goff
Jim Lehane
Peter and Jeanne Meyer
Elizabeth Mumford (posthumously)
Rolf Nixon
Jan Nowak
Sue Patterson
Dee Petrella
Rob Ross
Tony and Lorraine Shepley
Cecily and Cartiere Tatibouet
Grant and Helene Wilson (both posthumously)
Their generosity and passion for helping has been an inspiration to so many others who have, and will again, make this the best night of the year.