Food, friends and fanfare for PCC

As Peninsula Counseling Center nears its 100th anniversary, hundreds of people took time out last week to support the mental health services agency, a staple of southwest Nassau County.

PCC hosted its annual A Tasteful Evening fundraiser on Oct. 15 at the Woodmere Club. Guests got to sample food, wine and treats from about two dozen restaurants and dessert shops. The event serves as the agency’s major fundraiser for the year.

“The funds that we’re able to raise allows us to continue to serve people, regardless of their ability to pay, and to continue the good work that we do,” said PCC Executive Director John Kastan.

With dwindling financial support from the government, Kastan said events like A Tasteful Evening become even more vital for the agency’s future. He said the night would not be possible without the support of local restaurants, which came from the Five Towns, Valley Stream, Lynbrook, Rockville Centre, Long Beach and other nearby communities, which provide their food for free.

Honorees

Guests had three hours to enjoy a sampling of Italian food, tacos, sushi, homemade chocolate, cheesecake and much more. But they were asked to put their forks down for a few minutes as PCC honored some people who have gone above and beyond to support their organization.

Jay Greenbaum, a 55-year resident of Hewlett, was presented with the Humanitarian Award. He is a past president of PCC’s Board of Directors, and has volunteered his time with numerous other community organizations. He founded the agency’s triathlon fundraiser to benefit the Adam Cohen and Jonah Richman Adolescent Center at PCC.

“Jay’s commitment to the Peninsula Counseling Center and to his entire community is second to none,” said Valley Stream Mayor Ed Fare, the evening’s master of ceremonies.

Greenbaum said everyone has a limited amount of time, money and energy that they can give, but when making an investment in charitable work, the reward is worth it.

The Philanthropy Award went to the leaders of Five Towns Community Chest, an organization which raises funds for charitable groups and individuals. The recipients were Chairman Eric Keslowitz, President Steven Spiro and Executive Director Bob Block.