April 7, 2014
The “Angels of Kinky Boots” from Broadway’s Kinky Boots musical production by Cyndi Lauper and Harvey Fierstein, and winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical and recent GRAMMY® Award winner for Best Musical Theater Album, entertained over 380 guests at the 32nd the Reach for a Star Luncheon benefitting Henry Viscardi School at The Viscardi Center. The Luncheon was held on March 25, 2014 at Crest Hollow Country Club.
The performance featured songs from the stage show and other musical hits. It concluded with the cast members, and several students from Henry Viscardi School, singing Lauper’s “True Colors.” Proceeds from the Reach for a Star Luncheon support after-school activities, clubs, adapted sports, recreation and weekend overnights that give the Viscardi students the opportunity to hang out with their friends – just like other kids. View photos from the Luncheon.
The Dunkin’ Donuts & Baskin-Robbins Community Foundation was recognized at the event for its continued support of the School. A short, fun video presentation showed Henry Viscardi School students visiting the Roslyn Dunkin’ Donuts location where they were able to see and participate in the day to day operations of the business. During this real-life work experience, the students learned to prepare donuts and coffee and serve customers.
Francesca Iaquinta, an alumni of Henry Viscardi School also shared her personal story, and the success she has achieved since her graduation, with the guests. Ms. Iaquinta is the Supervisor of Management Information Systems at the Department of Labor, where she has been employed for over 30 years.
The Henry Viscardi School at The Viscardi Center is a New York State supported 4201 school that offers parents of children with severe physical disabilities and who often require life-sustaining medical treatment throughout the day, a traditional educational setting option that provides rigorous academics and opportunities for personal growth and leadership development. Its specialized, accessible educational setting provides a fully-enriched academic program, a variety of therapies, assistive technology and medical supports to students who may otherwise need to receive instruction in their homes or a hospital.
Founded by Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr., who served as disability advisor to eight U.S. Presidents and became one of the world’s leading advocates, The Viscardi Center provides Pre-K through High School education, school-to-work transition services, vocational training, career counseling and placement and workforce diversification assistance to children, adolescents, and adults with disabilities and businesses. A global leader, it employs more than 300 professionals, including experts in education, human resources and technology.