On May 7, supporters, partners, veterans, and community leaders gathered at The Heritage Club at Bethpage for an unforgettable evening in support of the mission of United Veterans Beacon House.
The Beacon Gala Reimagined was exactly that. A fresh, energetic, mission driven evening designed to bring people together in a meaningful way while raising critical support for veterans across Long Island and beyond.
Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our community, the evening raised a record breaking $460,000 to support housing, supportive services, transportation, case management, and programs that help ensure veterans have the stability, dignity, and care they deserve.
This was not your typical gala.
From dynamic networking spaces and mission moments to interactive experiences and heartfelt storytelling, the night reflected the spirit of the veterans we serve: resilient, inspiring, and deeply connected to community.
The success of the evening would not have been possible without the leadership and dedication of our Gala Co Chairs, Craig Handler, Esq. and Nicole Lambert, whose vision, energy, and commitment helped bring this event to life.
We also extend our sincere gratitude to our Gala Committee, Board of Directors, sponsors, donors, volunteers, and every individual who helped make the evening such a tremendous success.
Honoring Those Who Served
One of the most powerful elements of the evening was the Wall of Honor, a moving tribute dedicated to veteran honorees recognized by companies, families, and community members throughout the room.
Through photos, stories, and personal tributes displayed across the ballroom, guests honored veterans who served our country and helped shape families, businesses, friendships, and communities. The Wall of Honor served as a reminder that behind every name is a story of sacrifice, courage, resilience, and service.
It was a deeply meaningful reflection of the purpose behind the evening and the lasting impact veterans continue to have on all of our lives.
Recognizing Leadership and Partnership
A special highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Community Partner of the Year Award to THE Pizzeria.
What began as a conversation about expanding awareness of the veteran community evolved into a powerful month long campaign across all seven Pizzeria locations. Through custom merchandise, social media storytelling, in store promotions, staff engagement, community participation, and creative fundraising initiatives, THE Pizzeria team fully embraced the mission of supporting veterans in crisis.
Their efforts raised more than $100,000 and funded the purchase of a new 12 passenger van for United Veterans Beacon House. At a time when one of the organization’s transportation vehicles was nearing the end of its lifespan, this gift arrived at exactly the right moment. The van will help transport veterans to medical appointments, employment opportunities, treatment programs, housing placements, and essential services every single day.
Their campaign was more than fundraising. It was a true example of community partnership in action and a reminder of the impact that can happen when businesses use their platform to create meaningful change.
We are also deeply grateful to our top supporters and leadership donors whose generosity helped make this historic evening possible:
The Family of William Entenmann, The Lambert Family Foundation, Webster Bank, The George Link Jr. Charitable, The Charles C. and Margaret W. Spencer Charitable Fund
More Than a Celebration
While the evening was filled with incredible energy and connection, the true impact goes far beyond one night.
Every dollar raised helps ensure veterans facing crisis, homelessness, and instability have access to safe housing and the supportive services needed to rebuild their lives and move forward with hope.
For more than 32 years, United Veterans Beacon House has remained committed to serving those who served us, and this event was a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together behind that mission.
Thank you for believing in our veterans, our mission, and the future we are building together.
