New York builder Christopher J. Spano will share the spotlight with a host of celebrities at the annual Ackerman Institute Moving Families Forward Gala this month.
Spano, president of CJS Builders, is set to receive the non-profit’s Ackerman Corporate Partner Award for his efforts in helping the group create a new headquarters facility.
Meanwhile, movie star Colin Farrell will also be at the gala in the Waldorf-Astoria to collect the group’s Moving Families Forward Award The actor’s eldest child James suffers from Angelman Syndrome — a neuro-genetic disorder that effects intellectual and developmental growth.
Farrell has been a vocal supporter of the Ackerman Institute, a group he has praised for “the sense of community” is has provided for parent and their children.
“For parents who have been blessed with a child with special needs, this sense of community and togetherness takes on an even more immediate importance,” explained the actor.
“The involvement and support offered throughout Ackermans various programs have made a great difference in so many lives and so I am truly humbled to accept this award. As a proud father of a child with special needs, I accept it in honor of all parents everywhere, who work tirelessly to ensure that their children get all the care and support that they both need and so richly deserve.”
Lois Braverman, president & CEO, Ackerman Institute for the Family, paid tribute to the efforts of Spano and his firm saying, “Moving, after 53 years, from the Upper East Side to the Flatiron District in Manhattan is no easy task.
“Working with a construction company that is exceptionally competent, as well as compassionate and committed to our mission, made this project particularly fulfilling. Chris understood our needs and he helped us create a facility that is both therapeutic and beautiful for the families that we treat and the therapists that we train.”
Other honorees aat theis year’s galal — which will take place at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel at 301 Park Avenue on Monday, October 21 — included Jeannie Ackerman Curhan. Natalie Morales, NBC news anchor, will host the evening, which will included entertainment by the John Pizzarelli Quartet with Bucky Pizzarelli and an auction. To purchase tickets to the Moving Families Forward Gala call 914-579-1000 or email: AckermanGala@BuckleyHallEvents.com.
