On Thursday May 22nd, The Joe Andruzzi Foundation hosted their 2nd Annual Hometown Hop Over presented by North Easton Savings Bank at Angle Tree Brewery in North Attleboro, Massachusetts! The evening was filled with great music, delicious food, and a vibrant community.
Guests started their evening off with a warm welcome from members of the JAF staff. They then had the opportunity to participate in a raffle filled with an abundance of great gifts and prizes for everyone. There was also an opportunity to participate in a silent auction with three fantastic prizes. The excitement carried on to the end of the night when the tickets were pulled and some lucky people got to walk away with a basket.
Thanks to our generous food vendors, there was a fantastic spread! From appetizers like chips and dip to the main dishes of pasta, pizza, wings and samosas, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Angle Tree brews on tap were the hit of the night! And a birthday celebration isn’t complete without a birthday cake, courtesy of Whisk and Paddle and cupcakes donated by Hometown Bakery!
Some of the most memorable moments of the evening came during the speaking program. Joe and Jen welcomed guests and introduced us to an inspiring patient recipient, Kristen Guarino. Kristen was diagnosed with breast cancer roughly a year ago, and at that time she was working as a therapist to teenage girls in detention centers. The center she worked at closed right as she received her diagnosis, creating a whirlwind of different emotions for Kristen. She wondered how she would pay her bills while simultaneously receiving treatment. But she was able to receive help from the Joe Andruzzi Foundation, lightening her load until she found her new job that she now pours all her passion into.
Kristen reminded those in attendance of the importance of giving, especially at a time of such great need. Regardless of the current economic climate, it is important that people continue to give and help all those in need. No matter how small or large, any contribution can make a substantial difference for patients like Kristen.
Although the Hop Over was an event meant to celebrate the anniversary of JAF, the Foundation was not the only one marking a milestone. Jen Andruzzi also celebrated her birthday on May 22nd!
This event would not have been possible without the help of our amazing partners and sponsors. Thank you to Mad Moose Saloon, Jay’s Indian Kitchen, Bill’s Pizza, Whisk & Paddle, Cucina 38, Los Antojitos, and Hometown Bakery for providing the delicious bites that kept everyone fueled. Thank you also to Well Told Designs for providing commemorative pint glasses for guests! A special thank you to Angle Tree Brewery for hosting this great event. And thank you again to North Easton Savings Bank for being the presenting sponsor!
The Hometown Hop Over was a great success! Guests had a wonderful time visiting old friends and making new ones. This wonderful event celebrated all that the Joe Andruzzi Foundation has done for New England cancer patients over the past 17 years, while also looking to the future with excitement for all that is to come.
