United Way of Long Island raises $750K

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United Way of Long Island raised more than $750,000 at its June “United in Purpose” luncheon, the organization said Monday.

More than 600 people – from corporations, labor unions and organizations – attended the annual event, held at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury.

The event had a number of sponsors, including presenting sponsor Bethpage Federal Credit Union and others, supporting the event. Honorees included Sands New York, Haugland Group and Sheet Metal Workers Local 28.

“What a pleasure to celebrate this day with all of you,” Theresa Regnante, president and CEO of United Way of Long Island, told supporters, according to a news release about the event. “Heal the world…make it a better place. Everyone pulling in the same direction. You truly have the heart, compassion and willingness to be a part of making our world here on Long Island a better place for thousands of families.”

Sands New York was recognized as the “Corporate Impact Champion.” The company’s entry into the region aims to make key investments and impact the futures of young people so that they find opportunities in education and careers on Long Island in the building development and hospitality sectors, according to the news release

“United Way has given Sands great counsel and insight on how to engage with this community,” Ron Reese, senior vice president of global communications and corporate affairs at Sands New York, said in the news release. “We are very humbled to accept this award. We know what it means in this community to be recognized by United Way.”

Haugland Group was recognized as the “Workforce Investment Champion” for its energy and career opportunities.

“We are grateful to United Way for breaking down barriers to work in our industry,” Billy Haugland II, the company’s CEO, said in the news release. “The power of our partnership demonstrates a cascading effect on the resiliency of Long Island, creating economic opportunity hyperlocal in our communities while introducing cleaner, green energy, improving life for all Long Islanders.”

Sheet Metal Workers LOCAL 28 was recognized as the “Labor Champion,” and has worked with United Way of Long Island to offer training and placement opportunities in union labor – a boost for the local economy.

In thanking United Way for the recognition, Brian Nigro, business representative for the Sheet Metal Union said that the award offered an opportunity to “display what my local does and what the trades can do. I found in my time in this trade that it’s really not about the metal that keeps us all working, but it’s about the partnerships and relationships you build over the years and helping other people to move up through the ranks.”

A full list of sponsors is listed on United Way of Long Island’s website.