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Eileen Knauer is a community champion! The Executive Director of one of our community’s most cherished organizations, the Huntington YMCA, this longtime Huntington resident and devoted mother of two has become a great partner to HBCAC. Her unselfish commitment to community service has allowed our Circle of Hope fundraising effort to continue to grow. Eileen, her wonderful staff, and faithful Y members have shown unparalleled generosity and hospitality as we have been invited in to their “home” so many times to raise funds through the bracelets sales. Eileen’s other community service contributions include the Huntington Rotary Club, the Huntington Chamber of Commerce and the Huntington Hospital Adolescent Obesity Committee. Thank you for your invaluable support and Eileen take a bow, you’re “In The Spotlight”.

Joanne Gruder, a special education paraprofessional at Jefferson Elementary School, is extra special to us. This mother of three and grandmother of three has become a valuable “field scout” in our ever growing Circle of Hope. Oftentimes selling bracelets right off of her own wrist, Joanne and her son Scott have generated hundreds of bracelet sales on behalf of HBCAC! A wonderful person and fabulous cook, Joanne finds the time to balance work, family, tap dancing, Mahjong and charity into her busy life! Her support and enthusiasm is something by which we can all “Live and Learn”. Take a bow, Joanne, you’re “In the Spotlight”.

Patricia Hehir is always “cooking up” a fabulous new idea which is why as the Director of Marketing for Appliance World in Huntington and Oyster Bay she has brought local not for profit fundraising to a new level! A faithful supporter, Pat has helped HBCAC craft two highly successful“live” kitchen fundraisers in the beautiful Appliance World state of the art showroom for the coalition. A mother of two, this former teacher and PTA president has limitless elegance and energy and through her volunteerism has helped raise money for many charities, schools and churches throughout Huntington Township for the past 20 years. A recent recipient of the Soroptimist Woman of the Year Award, Pat is the embodiment of class and refinement! So take a bow “Miss Sunshine Lady” because you are “In The Spotlight.”