Help children

Sunday May 02, 2010

Colleen Shea Foundation to fund pediatric center. Proceeds from annual ‘Spring Fling’ to go to free health clinic

A new pediatric unit at the Care and Concern Free Health Clinic in Pittston will become a reality thanks to the Colleen Shea Children’s Foundation. The pediatric unit has been named the beneficiary of the foundation’s seventh annual "Spring Fling" scheduled for May 14 at Fox Hill Country Club.

Deacon Jim Cortegerone, far right, explains some of the remodeling work at the Care and Concern Free Health Clinic to Jada Swinski, left, Elaine Zambetti, Andrea Devers, Ann Cocco, Nancy Baiera, and Marianne Devers. Swinski, Zambetti and Devers are members of the Colleen Shea Children’s Foundation which will fund a new pediatrics unit at the center. Cocco and Baiera are volunteers at the center.

In announcing the beneficiary, Patricia Prociak, foundation chairperson, said, "This project is a perfect fit for us."

The Colleen Shea Children’s Foundation was established following the tragic death of Colleen Shea in an automobile accident in October of 2001.

The foundation’s mission is "to help serve the needs of children through charitable fundraising and community service." The Board of Directors is composed of friends, family and business associates of Colleen who "recognize the love Colleen showed for children and her desire to be a positive influence in their lives."

The Care and Concern Free Health Clinic, opened in November of 2007 in the former Seton Catholic High School, William Street, Pittston, has served more than 2000 clients to date. The clinic has an all-volunteer staff including doctors, physician assistants, nurses, dieticians, and social services professionals.

Most of the funds generated by the "Spring Fling" come from sponsorships. A platinum sponsorship of $1500 includes a full-page ad in the program and listing as a major underwriter of the event. Gold sponsorship is $1000 and includes a full page ad in the program; silver, $500 and one-half page ad; bronze, $250 and one-quarter page ad.

Tickets for the event, which includes a silent auction and music by "The New York Times Band," are $125 per person and can be obtained by calling Andrea Devers at 823-1600 or emailing adevers@prorehab.org. Read More...