STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — If you were among the revelers who flocked to the Eagle Oaks Country Club on Sept. 23 to “Treasure the Moment” for E.C.H.O. (Emergency Children’s Help Organization), you truly were one of the fortunate.

Unable to attend and perhaps unfamiliar with the organization? Kindly allow us a few moments to fill you in and acquaint you with the foundation, richly deserving of praise.

The plush banquet facility located in Farmingdale, N.J., provided a splendid backdrop for some 600 revelers who celebrated the evening for a very specific purpose: Their presence contributed greatly to improving the lives of children and families who are in dire need of medical assistance.

Because ensuring the welfare of children has always been close to Sebastian Angelico’s heart, in April 2008 he was motivated to form E.C.H.O., along with a energetic group of diverse executive board members who have pledged their support to families of seriously ill children who, due to financial burden, might possibly be denied proper health care. E.C.H.O.’s mission: To amass resources to benefit a child in need.

Paul Dapolito III, vice chairman of the foundation, introduced the evening’s honorees: Cesar Claro, executive director, Richmond County Savings Foundation and president and CEO of the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation, as well as Greg Murphy of ICAP Securities.

In fact, during the evening’s fare, Jennifer and Michael Russo took the podium on behalf of their daughter, Alexa Rose, who is now nearly 6 years of age and was born with a severe developmental disorder impeding both motor skills and speech and language. Alexa Rose has been classified as the only child in the world with all of her symptoms.

The Russos have dedicated their lives to Alexa Rose’s well-being and have afforded her the best care they know how. They said their prayers for a miracle were answered three years ago, when they were introduced to E.C.H.O., an organization they call their angel.

Upon hearing of Alexa Rose’s plight, the foundation stepped in to provide assistance for a unique hyperbaric treatment. What’s more, they purchased a special bed for Alexa Rose and covered the cost of past and present medical bills. Because of E.C.H.O., Alexa Rose’s life has been greatly improved — and almost overnight.

Pasquale Loporcaro, E.C.H.O.’s executive director, further explained that another little girl was provided with a body vest to treat severe scoliosis, a young boy with brain atrophy/epilepsy was sent to a specialized summer program, and another young boy who was hit by a car received monetary assistance and a three-month food supply when his mom was unable to work during his recuperation.

Loporcaro stressed that E.C.H.O. accomplished these feats because of the help of supporters and donors. He quoted Mark Twain: “To get the full value of joy, you need to have people to divide it with,” referencing how E.C.H.O’s guests that evening spread good will toward others.

It should be noted that Paul Dapolito IV was presented with the “Emerging Leader in Philanthropy Award” because of his dedication in creating, facilitating, and maintaining E.C.H.O’s website on a voluntary basis.

A star-studded lineup of once-in-a-lifetime experiences for auction included IPads, TVs, Rolex watches, a Louis Vuitton handbag and other prizes, which were distributed throughout the stellar evening.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- His is the kind of story that makes people shudder, imagine his struggles and reflect on everything they have to be thankful for: Michael Affrunti lost all his possessions in a fire. His young wife died three weeks later, leaving him alone to raise their five children, including his teenage son with special needs.

But on Staten Island, hardships like this do more than prompt a sad shaking of the head. They inspire action and philanthropy.

The New Springville father received a check for $15,000 yesterday from the Emergency Children’s Help Organization (ECHO), along with a personal gift of $3,000 from three of the not-for-profit’s board members, to cover his lingering debt from the March funeral for his wife, Angela.

The generosity of the charity organization comes alongside hundreds of other contributions and offers of help from people across the borough, sent to him through his son’s Hungerford School.

"Our prayers are with you and will always be with you. This is to make you realize people care," ECHO chairman Sebastian Angelico told Affrunti, who clasped his hands and held back tears during a ceremony in the Advance conference room.

The outpouring of support came after an article on the Affruntis appeared in the Advance and they were featured in a segment on NY1.

"This is what ECHO specializes in; this is a situation that really involves children and families who have emergencies," said Angelico.

In the three years since ECHO was formed by a group of friends and golfing buddies who already were in the habit of writing checks from their own accounts to help people in need, the Charleston-based organization has awarded some $125,000 to families on Staten Island and in New Jersey. The group will hold one of its twice-yearly fundraising dinners April 15 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Bloomfield (www.echoorganization.org).

Yesterday’s gift was the largest yet, because the Affruntis’ plight touched the board members so deeply, they said. ECHO board member Michael Valenzo, owner of Staten Island Met Foods, also pledged to provide groceries for the family for a year.

"I don’t have the words for it," said Affrunti, after receiving the donation. "It feels like a relief. I can’t believe the amount of people who want to help me."

He said he also has received about $1,600 in checks and cash — some gifts as small as $5 — sent to him care of his oldest son’s school. Thanks to the community, he said he can live without worrying about finances for a few months and figure out how to get on his feet.

"This is typical of Staten Island. We’re a borough of small communities; people like you really reach out and help your neighbors," Advance Editor Brian J. Laline said to ECHO board members during the event. "Staten Island is a changing community and we’re embracing it."

Indeed, the borough is the kind of place where residents really understand what it means to be interconnected, said Janet Manolakos, parent coordinator at the Hungerford School, who has received more than 100 phone calls, and even more in the way of e-mails, after an article on the Affruntis appeared in the Sunday Advance of April 3.

"People on Staten Island have — not surprisingly — stepped up to the plate," she said. "It’s been overwhelming in a very positive way. I hope this gives the Affrunti family the boost they need to continue to stay strong."

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - If you "Danced the Night Away" with E.C.H.O. on the evening of Oct. 22, you know the name is an acronym for Emergency Children's Help Organization, newly established with the purpose of assisting children and families with special needs.

Dr. Joseph Schauer III and Dr. Joseph Bogdan, who was honored for the strides he has made in the field of medicine.
But for those who were unable to attend and perhaps are unfamiliar with the organization – allow us to fill you in.

E.C.H.O. was formed in April 2008 by Sebastian Angelico and a dynamic group of executive board members who have pledged their support to families of seriously ill children who, due to financial burden, might possibly be denied proper health care. E.C.H.O.'s mission: To accumulate resources to benefit the welfare of a child.

So then, as a way to express their interest and support, and celebrate the success of the organization, a whopping 600 revelers gathered at the lush, Colonial-inspired Eagle Oaks Golf & Country Club in Farmingdale, N.J., to salute the foundation, and discover the generous way it has embraced the community and the manner in which the foundation, still in its infant stages, has benefited children and families.

In fact, during the evening's fare, Heather Fiorentino, mother of 4-year-old Gabriella, felt moved to grace the podium to deliver a heartfelt testimonial on behalf of her daughter, who was diagnosed last year with a non-malignant brain tumor. In addition to the six-hour surgery necessary to excise the tumor, Gabriella had to cope with post-surgery intravenous medications she needed because of a bacterial infection she'd contracted during her lengthy hospital stay.

Upon hearing of the family's plight, E.C.H.O. stepped in to offer their support as well as monetary assistance. And when asked about her condition, Gabriella, who's now doing well and is back to school, is quick to explain with a chuckle that her tumor has made her very strong, inasmuch as she's used to hearing accolades for her strength and perseverance. Mom Heather, dad Robert and sister Daniella, 7, will be eternally grateful to E.C.H.O., a host of individuals whom Heather refers to as her angels.

The glamor-laden evening, characterized by refinement and originality, sparkled like one of Hollywood's finest red-carpet affairs, replete with dazzling damsels and the most gentlemanly of gents who wouldn't have missed a chance to donate to the not-for-profit and accomplish volumes for those in need. Revelers received star treatment and waxed ecstatic over the amenities afforded at the well-appointed club accented by old world charm and contemporary creativity.

Honored during the event were Dr. Joseph Bogdan and Inside Out columnist Carol Ann Benanti.

On hand to add a touch of Hollywood starpower to the event was actor/comedian Joe Pesci, best known for his roles in the blockbusters "Raging Bull" "GoodFellas," "Casino" and "My Cousin Vinny."

Innovative door prizes, gift baskets, money trees and 50/50 games of chance abounded – not to mention a live auction that included bidding for the renowned Rao's Restaurant reservations, Super Bowl tickets, designer purses and Ranger box seat.

Kudos, then, to executive board members, the above-mentioned Sebastian Angelico, chairman; Paul Dapolito, III, vice chairman; Joseph DiGiso, secretary; Pat Gambaro, treasurer, and members at large Robert Felice, Nicholas Marone and Michael Singer, the board of directors and committee members who have set their sights on assisting children whose future might otherwise be bleak due to a medical or living emergency.

And because an awesome affair is also about good food and music, fine food and cocktails flowed – and once again the party popped with the diversified sounds of E-Squared Entertainment, the dynamic deejay company that took locals through the decades – as well as providing them with a sampling of the top 40.

Those interested in learning more about the organization and/or in making a donation should contact E.C.H.O. at 718 967-9086.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Mark your calendars for Saturday, at which time Pelletier Salon and Spa over in Charleston will play host to a Cut-A-Thon, at which a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Emergency Children’s Help Organization (E.C.H.O.).

The event is set to run from noon until 5 p.m. On offer will be games of chance, including a 50/50 raffle, as well as an opportunity to win a spa package and other prizes and specials.

For those who are unfamiliar with E.C.H.O., the organization, pledged to assist children with special needs and their families, it was founded in 2008 by Annadale resident Sebastian Angelico, president of Savant USA Ltd. Its mission is to accumulate funds to be used to promote the welfare of children whose future is grim due to a serious emergency, medical or otherwise.

E.C.H.O. offers monetary assistance to help ease the financial burden and hopefully “put a smile on the child’s face.” In order to qualify, applicants must be Staten Island residents, 18 or younger. To date, the organization has provided assistance to more than two dozen children and their families and continues with its promise to reach out to those in need.

The organization, which serves Staten Islanders and New Jerseyans, offers support to families that otherwise would be denied help because of inability to pay.

FYI: Donations are possible through the dedication of the organization’s board of directors and individuals who offer monetary assistance. Note that Pelletier Salon and Spa is located at 2955 Veterans Rd. West, Suite 2I, just across from Target in the South Shore Commons Shopping Center.

To reserve, or for additional information, telephone the salon at 718-984-8440.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- It’s quite clear that members of ECHO, the Emergency Children’s Health Organization, really know how to throw a party — and even better, raise mega-funds for the newly established charity dedicated to assisting children with special needs and their families.

This mission of the organization, which serves Staten Islanders and New Jerseyans, is to accumulate resources to be used to benefit the welfare of a child whose future is bleak due to the existence of a serious health, medical or living emergency. ECHO will offer monetary assistance to help ease the financial burden and, it’s hoped, put a smile on the face of a child.

Cheers to the ECHO executive board, whose creative imagination was responsible for the high-style soiree staged last Friday at the Hilton Garden Inn, the Bloomfield venue where nearly 300 revelers whiled the night away and shared in a “Night of Chance” cocktail reception with amazing giveaways: A $5,000 door prize, a Louis Vuitton handbag, an evening at the Hilton Garden Inn, including an overnight stay, 50/50 and money tree raffles, and lotto and other incredible prizes.

And because an awesome affair is also about good food and music, food and cocktails flowed — and the party popped with the diversified sounds of E-Squared Entertainment, the dynamic deejay company that took locals through the decades — as well as providing them with a sampling of the top 40.

But there was a poignant side to the evening as well. In speaking about the organization’s goals, philanthropy and humanitarianism, executive board member Paul Dapolito III lauded Stephanie Singer-Barnas, the daughter of board member Michael Singer, for her unwavering support and dedication to ECHO — and on behalf of the board presented her with a plaque.

Kudos, then, to executive board members Sebastian Angelico, chairman; the above-mentioned Paul Dapolito, III, vice chairman; Joseph DiGiso, secretary; Pat Gambaro, treasurer, and members at large Robert Felice, Nicholas Marone and the aforementioned Michael Singer.

Also coming in for plaudits is Richard Nicotra, director of the Nicotra Group and the owner of the Hilton Garden Inn and the Hampton Inn and Suites, for his kindness to the ECHO organization.

We have learned that the most recent Staten Island family to benefit from ECHO was presented with gift certificates to CVS Pharmacy in order to cover the costs of their child’s ongoing prescription needs — and others have been recipients of gift certificates to supermarkets, as well as clothing stores. What’s more, specialized medical equipment, beds and high chairs have been donated to families in need.

Since the inception of the organization in 2008, ECHO has distributed more than $75,000 in grants to needy local families. For additional information about ECHO, visit www.EchoOrganization.org. or telephone 718-967-9086.

The Emergency Children's Help Organization (E.C.H.O.) will host "A Night of Appreciation" dinner/dance (business attire) on Friday, Oct. 23, 7:30 p.m., at Eagle Oaks Golf & Country Club, 20 Shore Oaks Drive, Farmingdale, N.J. Tickets are $150. For more information/reservations, call 866-755-ECHO.

There will be a live auction featuring items such as: a trip to Aruba and a fishing boat trip. Various raffles, 50/50 and a money tree will also be available.

Honorees for the evening are:

David M. Herzog, M.D., who has a private practice in obstetrics and gynecology with offices in Bulls Head and Brooklyn.

Dominic and Tracy Minervini of Nutley, N.J., former board members who have volunteered many hours to numerous other charitable organizations.

The proceeds of the dinner/dance will assist E.C.H.O. in its mission to benefit the welfare of a child with serious health, medical or living emergency.

Since 2008, the organization has provided aid such as the purchase of a high-back Rifton wheelchair for an 8-year-old and a special bed for a 4-year-old, and funded a 7-year-old's travel expenses to an out-of-state hospital for treatment.

There's still time to reserve tickets to the Emergency Children's Help Organization's "Heart to Heart Gala," a cocktail buffet on deck for Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Vanderbilt on the South Beach Boardwalk. The mega-event will honor Rep. Michael McMahon, state Sen. Andrew J. Lanza and City Councilmen James Oddo (R-Mid-Island/Brooklyn) and Vincent Ignizio (R-South Shore). Tickets are $125. Business attire is preferred. Those interested in donating to ECHO or in learning more about how they can help the organization should telephone 866-755-ECHO (3246). ECHO, the Emergency Children's Help Organization, a newly established charity, is pledged to assist children with special needs and their families. The organization, which serves Staten Islanders and New Jerseyans, offers support to families that otherwise would be denied help because of inability to pay. Since it began eight months ago, the organization already has contributed funds to families in need. Donations are possible through the organization's board of directors and individuals.

ECHO, the Emergency Children's Help Organization, a newly established charity, is pledged to assist children with special needs and their families.

The organization, which serves Staten Islanders and New Jerseyans, offers support to families that otherwise would be denied help because of inability to pay.

Sebastian Angelico, the organization's founder, points out that since its inception seven months ago, ECHO already has contributed to several families and continues with its promise to reach out to those in need. Their mission: To accumulate resources to be used to benefit the welfare of children whose future may otherwise be bleak due to the existence of serious health, medical or living emergencies.

FYI: Donations are possible through the dedication of the organization's board of directors and individuals who offer monetary assistance with the hope of uplifting spirits and putting a smile on a child's face.

On Saturday, Feb. 28, at 7 p.m., ECHO will host a cocktail buffet "Heart to Heart Gala" at the Vanderbilt on the South Beach Boardwalk. The mega-event will honor state Sen. Andrew J. Lanza and City Councilmen James Oddo (R-Mid-Island/Brooklyn) and Vincent Ignizio (R-South Shore).

Tickets are priced at $125 per person. Business attire is preferred.

It should be noted that the organization's commemorative souvenir journal will be a source of revenue for ECHO. In addition to journal ads, the organization is asking for sponsorship donations -- and board members hope that locals will be as generous as they can be.

Those interested in donating to ECHO or in learning more about how they can help the organization should telephone 866-755-ECHO (3246).

Folks are still buzzing about ECHO's inaugural fund-raiser, the lavish cocktail reception staged at the Vanderbilt at South Beach. And we just couldn't let any more time go by without giving you a peek at locals who helped make the evening such a great success.

The event was hosted by Sebastian Angelico, the organization's founder and supporter of myriad charitable organizations, including those that assist the elderly and children. And Angelico has taken on an extraordinary board of directors, who have worked tirelessly to support the cause.

We should tell you that ECHO, an acronym of Emergency Children's Help Organization, is a newly established not-for-profit comprising dedicated individuals eager to offer assistance to children with special needs and their families.

The organization includes chapters on Staten Island and in New Jersey -- and offers support to youngsters who otherwise would be denied help because of financial burden. ECHO will offer monetary assistance with the hope of brightening spirits.

Revelers joining in the merrymaking on the debut evening included actor Carmine Giovinazzo, who hails from Staten Island and is a star on the CBS series "CSI: New York," as well as politicos and dignitaries.

ECHO officers and executives include: Sebastian Angelico, chairman; Paul Dapolito III, vice chairman; Joseph DiGiso, secretary; Pat Gambaro, treasurer; Nicholas Marone, Charles Contino and Robert Felice.

In conjunction with its first-ever fundraiser at The Vanderbilt, South Beach, the Emergency Children's Health Organization last night presented a grant to the family of a child in need.

Sebastian Angelico, the chairman and founder of ECHO, presented a check to Anthony Crimeni, whose 12-year-old, also named Anthony, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The Crimeni family was the first to write to ECHO about their skyrocketing medical expenses; their son is undergoing treatment in Mount Sinai Hospital.

More than 375 people attended the cocktail party fundraiser, including a special appearance by actor and native Staten Islander Carmine Giovanazzo of the CBS series "CSI: NY."

"Being from Staten Island, I'm glad I could help bring some attention to it," Giovanazzo said. "My mom keeps a lookout for things on the East Coast. I always look out for kids, so (helping with) this just made sense."

The newly formed not-for-profit works to help children "whose future is bleak due to a serious health, medical or living emergency," according to its mission statement.

"Through a grant application process it is our goal to help as many families as we can who are in dire need," said Mr. Angelico in his speech. "This is what has been the driving force that motivated me to create ECHO."

Tenor and former New York City policeman Danny Rodgriguez sang an operatic rendition of "God Bless America."

The evening featured a live auction of prizes such as a trip to Aruba and tickets to see the play Jersey Boys to raise money for the organization. Raffle tickets were also sold for prize baskets ranging from sports memorabilia to children's gifts.

Also scheduled to attend last night were Rep. Vito Fossella (R-Staten Island/Brooklyn), City Councilman Vincent Ignizio (R-South Shore), Surrogate Judge Robert Gigante and former Mets player and coach Joe Pignatano.

Several weeks ago, we introduced you to ECHO, the Emergency Children's Help Organization, a newly established not-for-profit charity comprising dedicated individuals eager to offer assistance to children with special needs and their families. The organization will offer support to youngsters whose families are in financial straits.

We also connected you to Sebastian Angelico, the organization's founder, who has assembled a diverse and effective board of directors.

We should tell you that it's still not too late to attend ECHO's inaugural fundraiser -- a lavish cocktail reception -- set for Thursday evening, July 24, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Vanderbilt at South Beach. The event will formally announce the new charity, which includes chapters on Staten Island and in New Jersey.

FYI: Carmine Giovinazzo, the popular actor who portrays Detective Danny Messer in "CSI: New York," one of the hottest suspense thrillers on television (it airs Wednesdays at 10 p.m. on CBS/Ch. 2) will attend the event. The Mariners Harbor native sizzles in his role -- it's no wonder he's touted as one of the "Sexiest Men Alive." Giovinazzo, an avid athlete who has appeared in more than 10 films, also is a musician who composes and heads his own band, called Cessau.

Getting back to the organization: Angelico himself has long been a supporter of varied charitable organizations, including those directed toward the elderly, the ill and, of course, children. His desire to help children -- and those who are unable to help themselves -- is the driving force behind the newly formed project.

Note that the organization's mission is to accumulate resources to be used to benefit the welfare of a child whose future may otherwise be bleak due to the existence of a serious health, medical or living emergency. ECHO will offer monetary assistance with the hope of uplifting spirits and putting a smile on a child's face.

Officers and executive committee members include: Sebastian Angelico, chairman; Paul Dapolito III, vice chairman; Joseph DiGiso, secretary; Pat Gambaro, treasurer; Nicholas Marone, member-at-large, Charles Contrino, member-at-large, and Robert Felice, member-at-large.

Those interested in attending the event or in donating to the charity should contact Denise at 866-755-ECHO. Be there!

 

The organization will offer support to youngsters who otherwise would be denied help because of financial burden.

Sebastian Angelico, the organization's founder, has assembled a diverse board of directors, whose unquestionable motivation and agenda will serve as an invaluable tool in achieving their goal.

Angelico himself has long been a supporter of varied charitable organizations, including those directed toward the elderly, the ill and, of course, children.

His desire to help children -- and those who are unable to help themselves -- is the driving force behind the newly formed project.

"When I read about a child in need of a particular surgery or procedure that will help or cure that child, and learn that the family cannot afford the cost incurred in order to proceed, that's where I believe ECHO will be able to help," Angelico said.

The organization's mission is to accumulate resources to be used to benefit the welfare of a child, whose future may otherwise be bleak due to the existence of a serious health, medical or living emergency. ECHO will offer monetary assistance with the hope of uplifting spirits and putting a smile on a child's face.

Officers and executive committee members include: Sebastian Angelico, chairman; Paul Dapolito III, vice chairman; Joseph DiGiso, secretary; Pat Gambaro, treasurer; Nicholas Marone, member-at-large, Charles Contrino, member-at-large, and Robert Felice, member-at-large.

An inaugural fund-raiser -- a cocktail reception to announce the new charity with chapters on Staten Island and New Jersey, is set for Thursday, July 24, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Vanderbilt at South Beach.

Those interested in attending the event or in donating to the charity should contact Denise at 866-755-ECHO.