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October 23, 2020American Idol Finalist Madison VanDenburg Supports Upstate, NY Spina Bifida Chapter
The Spina Bifida Association of Northeastern New York (SBANENY) has been supporting individuals and families living with Spina Bifida since 1993. SBANENY is the sole affiliate chapter of the Spina Bifida Association in New York State. For years, SBANENY has responded to individuals affected by Spina Bifida and offered programming to consumers statewide. As an organization receiving no government funding, it is the success of fundraisers like Dare to Dream that make supporting this community possible.
SBANENY’s 8th Annual Dare to Dream gala is taking place virtually for the first time on Saturday, November 21, 2020. This was not an easy decision to make. Executive Director Julia Duff reflects: “When you have been hosting an event for over 7 years, it is not easy starting from scratch. But this was the best decision for the safety and protection of our community who can be at higher risk.” Now, only one month away from the event, momentum is building.
Madison VanDenburg, a resident of Upstate, NY and top 3 finalist on American Idol in 2019 is performing a musical piece to welcome guests to the event. This is an exciting opportunity for SBANENY. “The Dare to Dream committee discussed ways we can make our event special for the attendees in this virtual venue. When we discussed asking Madison to participate, we had no idea we would be able to secure a performance. We were elated!” shares Julia. This is a true testament to Madison’s generosity and commitment to her community in Upstate, NY.
The Dare to Dream Virtual Gala, presented by Socha Plaza and The Daily Gazette includes an online auction opening on November 1st at 7:00pm through November 22nd at 12:00pm. Tickets are $10.00 to attend and provide access to online bidding for the auction along with the evening presentation on November 21st at 6:00pm. Special feature items including a gift card from California Closets in Albany for $1,000 and a gift card to Mayfair Jewelers for $250 are exciting new additions that are only available for limited time starting November 19th. In addition to the auction which raises critical funds and provides entertainment for guests, SBANENY will be recognizing Kimberly Hill, the Executive Director of the New York State Assembly Task Force on People with Disabilities with the SBANENY “You Make a Difference Award.” To conclude the event, Maddie Gallagher, a staple at the in-person event as the live auctioneer, will be performing a farewell song to guests. All proceeds remain local and support SBANENY programs and services benefitting individuals and families living with Spina Bifida.
Spina Bifida is a neural tube birth defect that happens in the first month of pregnancy when the spinal column doesn’t form properly, leaving nerves exposed and resulting in damage to the spinal cord. Conditions associated with Spina Bifida include paralysis; bladder, bowel and gastrointestinal disorders; learning disabilities; anxiety and depression; a higher risk of obesity; and the risk of latex allergy. Estimates indicate that 10,000 people are living with Spina Bifida in New York State.
To learn more about Spina Bifida, SBANENY services, and register or donate to Dare to Dream, visit www.sbaneny.org.
