Forestdale Scholarship Banquet

For Diane Dunk and many others, the evening of the Forestdale Foster and Adoptive Parent Association's Scholarship Banquet was a joyous time.
&#8220We're so happy that people want to see our work and what we represent,” said Dunk, who serves as the association's vice president.
Dunk and her husband, foster parents themselves for 10 years, recently adopted their two foster children, ages 11 and 13.
&#8220We don't say they're foster children or adopted children,” she said, &#8220They're just our children.”
Dunk added that she believes the most important thing in life is being able to help others.
&#8220It's great to give back to people less fortunate than we are,” she said.
And on the evening of Friday, June 22, her organization did just that. It raised $2,500 from the event and from contributions given by local merchants. The money was given to eight students in scholarships ranging from $200 to $500.
The gala was held at Antun's Catering Hall, located at 96-43 Springfield Boulevard in Queens Village, and drew 180 guests. It was the fifth such banquet held by the organization.
&#8220It was very, very nice,” Dunk said. &#8220We were impressed with the outcome. We hope maybe next year we can expand it.”