The National Foundation for Human Potential hosted its "Celebration of Life" Gala on Nov. 4, at the Crest Hollow Country Club, Woodbury, NY. This year's honoree was Mike Francesa, WFAN sports-talk radio host of the Mike and the Mad Dog program. Danielle Campbell, anchor, News 12 Long Island, was the mistress of ceremonies. Over 350 people attended the annual event that recognizes the accomplishments of individuals with developmental disabilities, and/or mental illness or traumatic brain injury. Proceeds from the Gala benefited Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE), in Old Bethpage and The Rehabilitation Institute (TRI), in Garden City and Carle Place.

"Individuals with disabilities have so much more to offer than we know," said Mike Francesa, Gala honoree. "FREE and TRI nurture their human potential and have given these individuals a kinder and gentler world to live in."

The National Foundation for Human Potential through FREE and TRI provides educational, residential, vocational and clinical services to people with special challenges. The innovative programs offered by these not-for-profit agencies help differently-abled individuals receive the services necessary to live as independently as possible and become integrated into the community with a sense of dignity.

A special part of the evening was the presentation of several important awards to three deserving individuals for their outstanding achievements. Peter Reid was the recipient of the Dominick Ferrara Memorial Achievement Award. Peter, who originally lived in one of the agency's group homes, has achieved greater independence and is now living in one of the agency's assisted apartment programs and gained employment at Saddle Rock Ranch where he is responsible for horse care and barn maintenance. Saddle Rock Ranch in Middle Island is a personal development and recreation program offered by Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc.

Alberta Galdi, who has supervised Family Residences' mental health supported housing program for the past 12 years, was recognized with the Sylvia Martin Award. Alberta has been instrumental in providing support services to the mental health program at Family Residences and has been a strong advocate for better services for the mentally ill on Long Island.

Julie Dell'Aira was honored with the Volunteer of the Year Award. Julie spends her weekends teaching therapeutic riding to children and adults with disabilities. Her patience, kindness and skill have enabled her students to improve their physical and emotional well-being.

For more information on Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. and The Rehabilitation Institute please call 870-1661.