LEOMINSTER — Beacon of Hope Community Services will celebrate community, inclusion and achievement at its annual Harvest Dinner Dance on Nov. 6 at the DoubleTree Hotel, 99 Erdman Way, Leominster.
One of the organization’s most anticipated events of the year, the dinner dance brings together families, friends, community members, volunteers and supporters for an evening of celebration, recognition, laughter, music and dancing while raising critical funds to support Beacon of Hope’s programs.
“For nearly 40 years, Beacon of Hope has created opportunities and built a community where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can develop friendships, gain confidence, learn new skills, and experience greater independence and inclusion,” said Vicki Briggs, executive director of Beacon of Hope Community Services.
This year’s event will shine a special spotlight on two individuals who embody the spirit of Beacon of Hope — Kelli Rooney and Barbara White.
Rooney, senior vice president of community engagement and marketing at All One Credit Union, is a former Beacon of Hope board member and longtime supporter. A champion of community involvement, she dedicates her time, talents and energy to strengthening the community.
Her many community roles include serving on the Monty Tech Foundation Board, Leominster Education Foundation Board, North Central Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee, Cooperative Credit Union Association’s Massachusetts Social Responsibility Committee, Montachusett Area Rotary Club and the 2025 All American City Team representing Leominster.
“Her kindness, leadership and commitment to making a difference reflect the values Beacon of Hope strives to promote every day,” Briggs added.
White, a valued Beacon of Hope participant, exemplifies what is possible when people are supported, encouraged and included.
“She has been competitively employed for 20 years, lives in her own apartment, drives and enjoys the many community activities Leominster has to offer,” said Briggs. “She enjoys arts and crafts, dancing, sports and sharing her wonderful sense of humor with those around her. With support from her family and the Beacon community, White demonstrates the importance of inclusion and the possibilities that emerge when everyone has the opportunity to participate and succeed.”
The Harvest Dinner will also feature one of Beacon of Hope’s most popular traditions — the Celebrity Waitstaff.
Community leaders and supporters will trade their everyday roles for an evening of fun as they take on entertaining challenges.
This year’s celebrity waitstaff includes Mayor Dean Mazzarella, Marybeth Jokela, Missy and Chris Hendry, Kara Fraticelli, Alan Cosimi, Cyndi Deshaises, Kosmic Kelly, Bill Brady, Chris Bozicas, Angela Wallace, Jen Storm, Mindy LeBlanc and Robin Desmond.
Guests can “tip” their celebrity servers to take on playful challenges, from singing and dancing to other entertaining requests. The tradition generates plenty of laughter while helping raise funds for Beacon of Hope’s programs.
Mike Cooley will serve as emcee, while DJ Ray Richard will provide music and entertainment throughout the evening. A special performance by Beacon of Hope participants will give guests an opportunity to see firsthand the talents, creativity and spirit of the individuals at the heart of the organization’s mission.
Festivities begin at 6 p.m., with dinner served at 7 p.m. Guests can also participate in raffles and a silent auction featuring a variety of prizes while enjoying an evening of dinner, dancing, entertainment and friendship.
“Behind the celebration is an important purpose,” Briggs said.
Proceeds from the Harvest Dinner directly support Beacon of Hope’s programs, including its popular Evening Respite Program, held every Wednesday and Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at St. Anna’s Church Hall.
The program welcomes more than 50 members throughout the week and provides nutritious meals, social activities, arts and crafts, games, dancing, and opportunities to build friendships and social skills. Just as importantly, it offers families and caregivers several hours of much-needed respite each week.
“For Beacon of Hope, the Harvest Dinner is about much more than fundraising,” said Briggs. “It is an opportunity to celebrate accomplishments, recognize those who make a difference and remind the community that everyone has something valuable to contribute.”
Beacon of Hope is a community where people are accepted for who they are, encouraged to discover what they can do and given opportunities to shine. The Harvest Dinner celebrates both its members and the supporters who make those opportunities possible.
The organization extends its heartfelt appreciation to the businesses, organizations, families, volunteers and community members who continue to support its mission.
“Their generosity helps Beacon of Hope provide meaningful experiences and opportunities that make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families,” Briggs added.
Beacon of Hope also extends sincere gratitude to its generous sponsors. Beacon of Hope Sponsors are All One Credit Union and Heritage Retirement Planning. Ray of Hope Sponsors are IC Federal Credit Union, Dunkin’ (Cadette & Nadreau Organization), MCO & Associates, Infineon and the Auburn Lodge of Elks.
Tickets are $70 per person and must be purchased by Oct. 23. For tickets and additional information, visit beaconofhopema.org or call 978-840-2727.
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