Year in Review 2024

Our Year in Review | 2024

An Angel’s Wish Gala Dinner – Dance

Funds raised at our annual Gala support the sarcoma research initiative at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, which is renowned for its cutting-edge biological research. Since 2008, we’ve donated over $558,000. CRF proudly supports the work of Dr. Chris Vakoc, whose research examines the genetic underpinnings of rhabdomyosarcoma and seeks potential drug targets. I want to thank the Crest Hollow Country Club and the Monti Saladino family for supporting this wonderful evening.

Christina Renna Memorial Scholarship Program

Even as she fought through her disease, Christina’s passion for learning led us to establish this scholarship program. Congratulations to the 2024 winners, Charlotte Peralta and Avery Sblendorior; each received a $750 scholarship to help pursue their education. Christina Renna Varsity Cross Country Scholarship: $250 each to Maggie Klieber and Ronan Pollard. We have awarded $29,000 in local scholarships.

Golf Outing

Our 18th Annual Golf Outing was chaired by Steve Borrelli and held at Stonebridge Country Club in Smithtown. This event funds many of our programs throughout the year, including our Awareness Programs. The day’s success was due to the hard work and support of numerous local merchants and friends. We always need a few more foursomes, so please consider joining us. This was once again a sellout year, so if you’re interested, grab your spot as they go quickly.

Awareness Month for Childhood Cancer

In September, CRF launched a campaign to raise awareness and educate the public about the need for increased funding for pediatric cancer research. We collaborated with hundreds of foundations across the U.S., including our partners at CAC2, to disseminate this awareness message.

Walk-A-Thon

Hosted since 2007, this special September community event takes place at the Lindenhurst Middle School. Organized by Mr. Amesti (Athletic Director) and Mr. Frole (Varsity Football Coach) of the Lindenhurst School District, the Walk-A-Thon draws over 400 high school athletes and community residents. Unfortunately, the event was rained out. We would like to thank those who sent donations to support our year-round mission.

Gold Ribbons

As part of National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, CRF continues its Gold Ribbon program across the Island. We have decorated government buildings and schools with Gold Ribbons. Both Nassau and Suffolk counties have proclaimed September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Remembrance Tree

For the seventh year, we held a special remembrance tree lighting in the Village of Lindenhurst. We posted the names and photographs of children who are battling cancer on large gold bows and honored those we have lost. CRF invited local Childhood foundations to participate in the event. We light the tree the week before our annual walk. We thank the Village of Lindenhurst and the Mayor for all their support. CRF joined with other foundations of the Sarcoma Initiative to host a tree lighting event at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in recognition of our battle against childhood cancer.

Coalition Against Childhood Cancer (CAC2)

CRF is a proud founding member of the coalition, supporting research, awareness, advocacy, and family resources for pediatric cancer patients. This national coalition combines hundreds of childhood cancer organizations into a single, focused voice. CRF continues in its leadership, assisting with the research branch of this organization. The foundation advocates for additional state and federal funding and research opportunities, together with our fellow CAC2 members

Childhood Cancer Research Support

The Christina Renna Foundation Inc. is dedicated to raising awareness and funds to support research. These funds are raised in connection with several events, as well as an ongoing sponsorship program that seeks support from major corporations. The Board of Directors, assisted by its Advisory Board, determines the most suitable institution or institutions for our research dollars. The Board of Directors has selected Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and Professor Chris Vakoc as the recipient of our research initiative. We aim to establish a lasting relationship with the laboratory to support their world-renowned cancer research efforts.