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Military Academy at West Point Recognized for Making Wishes Come True
The Make-A-Wish Foundation ® of the Hudson Valley marks its 22nd anniversary with a gala celebrating 'Heroes Among Us' on Friday, May 9 at the Westchester Marriott in Tarrytown. The Foundation will recognize the contributions from MasterCard Worldwide and the support from four gentlemen from The United States Military Academy at West Point: Mr. Douglas Fillis; LTC Jesse Germain; LTC Dave Jones and LTC Michael Kwinn, Jr.
"We couldn't make wishes come true without the continued support of the people in the communities we serve, and it's an honor for us to pay tribute to the heroes among us who make the magic happen," said Thomas J. Conklin, president and chief executive officer, Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Hudson Valley. "The volunteer and financial contributions from MasterCard Worldwide and the enduring commitment by the four honorees from West Point play a vital role in helping the Chapter to carry out its mission to grant the wishes of children with life threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy."
Make-A-Wish will also honor Mr. Douglas Fillis, LTC Jesse Germain, LTC Dave Jones and LTC Michael Kwinn, Jr. from The United States Military Academy at West Point.
- Mr. Douglas J. Fillis has been instrumental in arranging for a Wish Child to serve as the honorary Captain at every Army home football game.
- LTC Jesse Germain, LTC Dave Jones and LTC Michael Kwinn, Jr. are responsible for arranging and chaperoning VIP tours for Wish Children around the campus of West Point, which includes the opportunity to have lunch with over 4,000 cadets. Each Wish child who participates receives a special honor during a medal presentation.
Over 400 people are expected to attend the gala which will be co-hosted by Darlene Rodriguez, anchor of WNBC's Today in New York. The contemporary jazz band, 'The Element' from the prestigious Lagond Music School in Elmsford will be providing the evening's musical entertainment. Also in attendance will be representatives from the Alumni Committee, a group formed by young adults who are former Wish Children themselves that provides an opportunity for former Wish Recipients to connect with one another and give back by helping to change the misconception that Make-A-Wish is an organization that grants wishes to only terminally ill children by sharing their stories with others.
Tickets are $300 per person/ $2,700 for a table of 10. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information please call (914) 478-9474.
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