The Michelle O'Neill Foundation to Benefit Children with Cancer and Special Needs
September 2022
Dear Foundation Family,
Volleyball XXVI was the BEST DAY EVER!!! That was our slogan for our 26th annual fundraiser on September 10th, and it was the best in every way, beginning with our opening ceremony and ending with very exciting playoffs. There was an indefinable “something” extra special that carried throughout the day, from sunup to sundown. The weather was a 10+; water was gorgeous and perfect for the surfers; 431 competitive and recreational teams across 69 nets – more than ever; people – smiling, smiling, smiling! Most importantly, donations realized from this fundraiser (after expenses over $250,000 as a result of the volleyball games, raffle of amazing prizes, 50/50 raffle, and merchandise sales) will allow us to assist many families caring for children who need our help.
Father Frank Shannon blessed the tournament and was joined on stage by some of the children we’ve been able to assist through the Foundation – Amanda (celebrating 10 years cancer free), Danny, Viviana, and Natalie (Vincent, Peyton, Paige and Layla joined us later). We were honored to be joined on stage by Matt Campo, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities, Brooke Bifulco and Rachel Flannery from MSK Kids, and Lizzy Mercouris of Make-A-Wish Foundation. John Barnes, our MC, EJ Weston our DJ, and Danny Rock of Constant Entertainment kept us informed and entertained throughout the day. Our thanks to Jimmy Tolfree, for providing hundreds of American flags that lined the boardwalk in front of our nets, and to the Kiwanis Club for assisting on the boardwalk in ticket sales and answering questions about the Foundation’s mission.
We could not have experienced any of this success without all of our sponsors, donors, and our amazing volley-teers who worked so tirelessly in order to make the volleyball tournament the success it was.
We are in the planning stages for VB XXVII scheduled for Saturday, September 9, 2023, and invite you all to join us! In the meantime, donations in honor or memory of a loved one, in lieu of flowers or for any reason, can be made through our website www.monfoundation.org. Again, thank you for helping us help the “kids.”
With gratitude,
Carol O’Neill, President
The Michelle O’Neill Foundation
On Behalf of the O’Neill, Niven and Walsh Families