Whitestone comes together for St. Mary’s

A joint effort between Welcome to Whitestone – a non-profit business supported community relations group – and sponsorships from 25 local businesses helped raise Christmas spirit and much needed funds for St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children. Together, they hosted a holiday party at Dabby’s – a children’s party and entertainment center in Whitestone – which featured music, games, prizes and pictures with the one and only Santa Claus.
“This is our very first family fun event,” said Devon O’Connor, the 19-year-old founder of Welcome to Whitestone and part-owner of Dabby’s. “I’ve always wanted to do something great for the community so this is my Christmas gift.”
With the help of local families and community children, the Welcome to Whitestone goal of raising $500 to benefit St. Mary’s was surpassed by $50. St. Mary’s is one of the nation’s leaders in intensive rehabilitation and complex medical care for children who are challenged with complications of premature birth, chronic health issues and accidents or injuries. O’Connor believes this will be the first in many more holiday charity events to come.
“I want to do something for Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and all different holidays. The whole idea with the group is doing good for the community and letting the community know what’s happening,” said O’Connor.
Since starting www.welcometowhitestone.com in June, O’Connor’s site has become the official site of the town of Whitestone. The site offers local businesses a place to advertise and learn about upcoming community forums held at Dabby’s at 11-02 Clintonville Street.
“I couldn’t be prouder,” said Devon’s mother Julie O’Connor. “He’s an amazing kid and so are his brothers. They all help him out.”
For information about becoming a member of Welcome to Whitestone, visit www.welcometowhitestone.com or call 718-673-5861.