Dear Friends of Lifespire,

This year is a special milestone for it was 10 years ago that we welcomed our first group of golfers to what would become an Annual Classic. To mark this special anniversary, this year’s Golf Classic will be held at the prestigious Garden City Country Club and will honor Anthony DeMarinis and Emily Gerson-Saines for their philanthropy and service to individuals with developmental disabilities.

It is also a year of challenges. From Washington to Albany and Wall Street to Main Street each day we are all reminded of the difficult economic times that we are all living through. Lifespire is not immune. Each day we must find new ways to make shrinking dollars go further. And yes… each day we face the stark reality that government funding becomes less and less.

Yet our work must continue! If our work should diminish or stop, who will help those who are the most vulnerable? Who will the pay for those needs that government simply does not fund? Thankfully, I am reminded of the words of Benjamin Franklin:

“He that has done you a kindness will be more than ready to do you another.”

While the past year has seen a remarkable recovery on Wall Street, the news about New York State’s budget appears to be getting grimmer by the week.  We still have no definite information on the impact that this year’s budget will have on Lifespire.  What is certain is that there will be less money coming from the State which makes your financial support of Lifespire that much more important.  Remember, your continued support of Lifespire’s only annual fund raising event will help us to continue to provide a high level of service.  

Please join us on August 2^nd as we honor two special individuals and raise much needed funds. You can be assured of a day of great golf, camaraderie and the sense of fulfillment which only comes from helping those less fortunate than us. On behalf of the Board of Directors, our staff, and most importantly on behalf of our consumers whose lives are enriched by your generosity we thank you for your financial support and look forward to seeing you on August 2^nd.

Sincerely,    Michael Gross Chairman, Lifespire BOD

Sincerely, Mark van Voorst CEO, Lifespire