SCO Family of Services’ Inspiration Ball Empowers Dreams and Transforms Futures of New Yorkers in Need

Garden City, NY, May 12, 2026 – SCO Family of Services, a leading provider of essential human services for 130 years, held its annual Inspiration Ball – “Empowering Dreams and Transforming Futures,” at the Garden City Hotel on May 7th. Funds raised at the event will help SCO provide vital services for more than 45,000 children, teens, families, and adults each year across New York City and Long Island.

The evening highlighted the impact of SCO’s work in the community made possible by philanthropic support, and recognized individuals and businesses for their outstanding commitment to advancing the agency’s mission.

“The Inspiration Ball honors those who lead with purpose and compassion, and this evening’s honorees, Carol A. Allen and Toni Gabrielli, truly embody that spirit,” remarked Suzette Gordon, President and CEO of SCO Family of Services. “We are deeply grateful to them and to all the corporate sponsors and individual supporters whose generosity and partnership help fuel vital services that strengthen families and communities.”

SCO honored Carol A. Allen, President and CEO of People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union, with the Corporate Leadership Award. Ms. Allen and People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union are long‑time partners of SCO Family of Services. Through this partnership, she has seen firsthand the life‑changing impact SCO’s programs have on children, families, and individuals throughout Long Island and New York City.

SCO presented the Humanitarian Award to Toni Gabrielli, philanthropist, volunteer, and longtime supporter of SCO Family of Services. Her compassion and commitment have made a lasting difference in the lives of those in SCO’s care.

The evening’s guest speaker, Gary, a participant in SCO programs for adults with developmental disabilities, shared his transformative journey towards greater independence.

Vanessa Baird-Streeter, President and CEO of the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island, was the host for the evening. Honorees received special citations from Governor Kathy Hochul, Congresswoman Laura Gillen, Congressman Tom Suozzi, NYS Senator Monica Martinez, NYS Senator Siela Bynoe, Assembly Member Ed Ra, and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. Live music, dancing, and an online auction rounded out the exceptional evening.

SCO extends its gratitude to the sponsors, supporters, committee, and volunteers who made the event a success. This year’s leading sponsors included Mutual of America, People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union, Webster Bank, Central Business Systems, Acrisure, The Beacon Group, Corporate Synergies, Davidoff Hutcher & Citron, Gabrielli Truck Sales, Jackson Lewis, and Del Vino Vineyard. Special thanks to our SCO Board members for their leadership and support.

About SCO Family of Services
SCO empowers children, adults, and families through life-changing care, housing, education, and behavioral health support – helping them to overcome challenges and to succeed. SCO has played a vital role delivering human services in communities throughout New York City and Long Island for over 130 years. For more information, please visit www.sco.org