Summer 2023 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

As the summer winds down and the school year begins, we are preparing for A Chance In Life's largest fundraising event of the year. The New York Annual Gala represents not only a celebration of the progress we’ve made, but also the hope and vision we carry for the future.

This year, we are honored to recognize the unwavering support and exemplary dedication of two outstanding individuals: Jody Slone Spitalnik, VP of Supplier Partnerships at Beverage Media Group & SevenFifty Media (Provi Publications) and Pete Trizzino, President of North America Sales at Dell Technologies. Both Jody and Pete embody the spirit of our mission, championing the cause and tirelessly working to provide opportunities and support for the young people under our care

However, the real stars of our gala are the children In this newsletter you will hear from two of the 6,000 young people we are privileged to serve this year The gala will feature even more stories like these, each a testament to the transformative power of love, support and opportunity

Our founder, Monsignor John Patrick Carroll-Abbing, said, "When you wipe a tear from the face of a child, a star lights up in the sky." These words are more than a poetic phrase – they encapsulate our philosophy and approach to every child we serve. Every time you’ve extended your support, every dollar you’ve donated, you've been a part of that celestial celebration, illuminating the sky with stars of hope, dreams and potential.

I invite you to join us in celebrating these shining stars at the gala. Be part of an evening that promises inspiration, gratitude and a vision of a brighter future. Tickets and tables are now available for purchase. Together, let’s light up the sky. Insieme tutto è possibile.

"I Want to be a Teacher"

At Hogar de la Niña Juan Pablo I in Colombia, our commitment to empowering young girls shines through the transformative Gender Equity workshops. These sessions serve as a powerful platform for the girls to explore their vocational aspirations and gain insights into diverse career opportunities.

During a recent workshop, the walls echoed with the dreams of the students. The classroom was ful of future singers, veterinarians, police officers, doctors, models and teachers.

Eight-year-old María's aspiration to become a teacher resonates deeply: "I would like to teach other girls all the good things I have learned from my teachers I want to pass on the positive experiences, opportunities, and advice I received from my teacher, and I would like to contribute to the growth of girls just like me." María's words embody the essence of our mission – to inspire a cycle of empowerment, where knowledge and guidance are shared, fostering a brighter future for all.

María smiles with her teacher

VILLAGE

Summer Youth Employment Program

I am Inspired By...

During the Summer Youth Employment Program at The Village on Staten Island, our programmatic partner NYC Arts Cypher presented a course on the art of rhythm and poetry, led by Omari Dejesus. The young people shared their creativity and composition, responding to the prompt: "I am inspired by..."

Have confidence in all you do The dreams you have, you should pursue. Believe you can do it Take action don't quit. Take one day at a time And up the ladder, you can climb

Believe you can succeed Don't give up and concede.

Sometimes we take one step forward and two steps back, But write out your goals and stay on track.

Back to School Supply Drive

With the new school year on the horizon, A Chance In Life distributed essential school supplies to over 1,000 children residing on the North Shore of Staten Island.

Equipping these children with the necessary tools for learning is meaningful investment in their future. By ensuring young student have access to school supplies, A Chance In Life is fostering an environment where every child has an equitable chance to succeed academically and realize their potential.

-Gabriele M., 16 SYEP Participant

Jackie Arenales, Programs Manager at The Village with SYEP participants at the Back to School Supply Drive

We had the opportunity to connect with A Chance In Life's 2023 New York Gala Honorees! The interviews have been edited and condensed for space.

Pete Trizzino President, North America Sales Dell Technologies

What inspired you to become involved with A Chance In Life?

My friend and mentor, Guy Chiarello, has inspired me and many others in his network to use the power of our connections to give back and make a difference. He introduced me to A Chance In Life and it immediately resonated with me. My wife, Karen, is a recently retired school teacher who spent her career working in an underserved community on Long Island, so it hits close to home.

Why does A Chance In Life's mission resonate with you?

As sales leader at one of the largest technology firms in the world I talk a lot about the importance of investing time in developing the next generation of leadership. And that’s exactly what A Chance In Life is doing. Empowering young people around the world to live up to their potential as our future leaders…and letting them know that someone believes in them

What message would you convey to individuals or companies looking to become involved with A Chance In Life?

Don’t hesitate! You have the opportunity to be a catalyst for change and play a crucial role in breaking the cycle of poverty and shaping a brighter future for those in need. Don’t underestimate what you can do. Get involved.

Jody Slone Spitalnik VP, Supplier Partnerships Beverage Media & Sevenfifty Daily (Provi Publications)

What inspired you to become involved with A Chance In Life?

My father, Bill Slone, with whom I worked for most of my career at Beverage Media, asked me to join him at a dinner for the Wine & Spirits division over two decades ago. I was immediately touched by the impact the organization has on the younger generation. I have been involved ever since and am honored to support their incredible mission.

Why does A Chance In Life’s mission resonate with you?

I believe in the power of young people to have a chance to overcome obstacles and learn to thrive if given the right support and opportunity. A Chance In Life truly gives that person the chance.

What message would you convey to individuals or companies looking to become involved with A Chance In Life?

Contributing to charitable causes reflects a sense of social responsibility. We have to remember that today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders. By investing in their growth, education, and well-being, we can all help build a stronger foundation for the future

The Trizzino Family Jody Slone Spitalnik