Angels of Light help make wishes come true

MILLBROOK — When the evening of Saturday, June 4, arrived after a sunny breezy day, it was as if those at Angels of Light (AOL) knew the Gods were smiling down on them. That was the day that AOL held its Annual Gala fundraiser at Orvis Sandanona in Millbrook, to help continue its mission.

With a huge tent on the Sandanona grounds, there was plenty to eat and drink, live music and a great appreciation for all AOL does to improve the lives of children battling illnesses in the Hudson Valley.

Founded more than 15 years ago by Lori and George Decker, countless family, friends and benefactors have helped turned AOL into a refuge for numerous families dealing with what is the inarguably the most difficult time of their lives.

The co-chairs of the gala were Sarah Glaister, Perrin Maitin and Terry Regan.

Originally begun as a way of to make the holidays happy for families of children battling terminal disease, AOL became a 501(c)3 in 2016 and now provides year-round assistance to families impacted by a child dealing with a devastating illness, accident or death.

Since its inception, AOL has distributed more than 7,500 gifts to more than 1,300 children and their families. Today, the nonprofit helps provide financial assistance for medical bills, food bills, gas bills, utility bills and more.

Saturday’s gala was not only a fundraiser, it was also an opportunity to honor volunteers and organizers who help make wishes come true.

AOL President Danielle Mollica-Whitely announced the honorees at the gala. Her mother, Antoinette Mollica, was named honoree of the year for all of the time and energy she contributes to AOL. Mollica recently raised $2,000 to fund physical therapy for a child, bought him a birthday present and then covered all of the costs for his junior prom.

Also recognized were Volunteer of the Year Emeline Smith, a recent graduate of Hobart and Smith College; Child Ambassador Amanda Cimillo, a junior at Arlington High School, who created an AOL Club in school in honor of her dear friend, Emma, who passed away at 15 in 2020. Amanda raised $2,500 for AOL this past year.

Business of the Year went to Millbrook hardware store Reardon Briggs. AOL Co-Founder and Executive Director Lori Cassia-Decker praised the store’s Michael and Deb Flanigan for going above and beyond in various ways to help AOL. It installed three Giving Trees at Christmas; it hosted multiple families annually; and it wrapped and delivered holiday gifts.

“And they do it with so much love,” added Cassia-Decker.

A special, third annual  Robert Trump Award (named after former President Donald Trump’s late brother, who was a loyal supporter and trustee of AOL), was also handed out on Saturday. Robert Trump’s widow, Anne Marie Pallan, is a current trustee of AOL.

The award was bestowed upon the Harkelrode family. Thaddeus Harkelrode, 13, is the eldest son of New York State Trooper Charles Harkelrode and his wife.

Thaddeus suffers from Ohtahara Syndrome, a rare type of epilepsy. In spite of numerous medications, two operations and various treatments, he continues to suffer daily from seizures. He and his family are long-time recipients of the AOL program.

AOL thanked all who attended and donated, noting it was grateful for each and every donation and all contributions to its auction.

While the gala was AOL’s main fundraiser,  smaller events will continue to place during the year. On Saturday, Sept. 24, there will be a motorbike rally at the Town of Washington Park. Go to www.angelsoflighthv.org to donate, volunteer or for more information.

The Harkelrode family are long-time recipients of the Angels of Light program. Thaddeus, far right, suffers from a rare form of epilepsy. From left are his mother, siblings and his father, New York State Trooper Charles Harkelrode. Photo by Judith O'Hara Balfe

Child Ambassador of the Year Amanda Cimilla, a junior at Arlington High School, started an Angels of Light Club at her school in honor of a friend, Emma, who died in 2020. She was honored by Chair of the Dutchess County Legislature Gregg Pulver (R-19) and State Senator Sue Serino (R-41). Photo by Judith O'Hara Balfe

The Harkelrode family are long-time recipients of the Angels of Light program. Thaddeus, far right, suffers from a rare form of epilepsy. From left are his mother, siblings and his father, New York State Trooper Charles Harkelrode. Photo by Judith O'Hara Balfe