MIDDLETOWN, N.Y. (May 30, 2025) – Spring Lake Hope Foundation and Satin Fine Foods, Inc. will host the 2025 “Courage in Action” Gala on Wednesday, June 4, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Villa Venezia in Middletown, N.Y. The evening will bring together community members, dignitaries and businesses in support of three Hudson Valley children, Ava (8), Luke (8) and Aubree (10), who face significant medical challenges.
Proceeds from of the fundraiser will support the purchase of two wheelchair-accessible vehicles and complete a bathroom accessibility renovation, projects that will directly improve the lives of these three children and their families.
Ava, an 8-year-old living with spina bifida, requires a wheelchair-accessible van to increase her mobility and access to the world around her. Aubree, a vibrant 10-year-old with cerebral palsy, will benefit from a similar vehicle to help her attend school functions and spend more time with loved ones. Luke, 8, has a rare brain disorder that limits his mobility. A bathroom renovation in his home will significantly enhance his independence and safety.
“The parents of medically complex children are true warriors for their children,” says Diane Reinitz, Human Resources Manager at Satin Fine Foods. Satin Fine Foods is a manufacturer of premium fondant and cake decorating products based in Chester, N.Y. “These projects will give Ava, Luke and Aubree the freedom, comfort and opportunities they deserve.”
Luke’s mother, Alison, reflected on their journey. “We were devastated. Our hearts were shattered. I held my sweet little baby and thought, how could he be so broken, why my sweet baby, why us? The doctor told us we had a higher chance of winning the lottery than having a child with this diagnosis. My amazing husband, without missing a beat, said, ‘Look at him, we did win the lottery. He’s perfect.’”
Now in its third year, the “Courage in Action” Gala continues to make a tangible impact. Previous events have enabled the construction of a handicap-accessible home and the purchase of two wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
“This is our third annual event to raise funds for the needs of medically complex children in our area,” said Kevin O’Reilly, Board of Advisor and Volunteer member of the Spring Lake Hope Foundation. “These children and their families are extremely inspiring and maintain a lot of strength to overcome daily challenges with a positive outlook. This foundation presents a wonderful opportunity to see the community truly coming together to volunteer their efforts to directly make a difference in these children’s lives.”
The event will include a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, a sit-down dinner, silent and live auctions and a cash bar. Families of the children will share their stories throughout the evening.
Tickets are $100 and must be purchased in advance at springlakehopefoundation.org/events. Admission includes passed hors d’oeuvres, a sit-down dinner, access to a silent and live auction and a cash bar. The Villa Venezia is at 2278 Goshen Tpke., Middletown, N.Y. 10941.
About Satin Fine Foods
Established in 2001, Satin Fine Foods has grown to become a leading manufacturer of icings and cake-decorating products. Using best quality ingredients and monitored by the highest-level food safety standards, Satin Fine Foods creates products and brands that are recognized the world over. Kevin O’Reilly, founder and CEO, is the visionary behind Satin Fine Foods. Raised in the family bakery, his experience, character and passion are instilled throughout the company and defines it’s culture. To learn more, visit satinfinefoods.com.
About Spring Lake Hope Foundation
Spring Lake Hope Foundation, Inc. is a NJ nonprofit and 501(c)(3) corporation that raises funds to pay for the medical and medical-related expenses not covered by insurance for children with rare illnesses and special needs. To learn more, visit springlakehopefoundation.org.
