Last May, more than 500 guests gathered at The Garden City Hotel for Eat.Bid.Laugh!, Sid Jacobson JCC’s annual signature fundraiser. The sold-out evening raised over $1.5 million, surpassing its fundraising goal and fueling a wide range of social services that support families across Long Island.

Proceeds from the evening benefit vital programs developed in response to community needs, including Camp Kehilla, a beloved summer camp for neurodivergent youth ages 5-21. One of the evening’s most moving moments came from former recently-graduated camper Evan Golden, whose powerful story inspired a standing ovation and a wave of giving toward camp scholarships.

Guests enjoyed tastings from 20+ premier Long Island restaurants, a silent auction, and a hilarious performance by comedian Alex Edelman, making it an evening as entertaining as it was impactful.

“This is the biggest fundraising event of the year for Sid Jacobson JCC, and Eat.Bid.Laugh! makes everything we do possible,” said Lloyd Rosenman, Eat.Bid.Laugh! committee co-chair. “From securing hundreds of thousands of dollars in sponsorships to partnering with renowned restaurants and curating exceptional auction items, the entire committee works tirelessly to ensure this night is a success. It feels good to do good.”

For more information about how you can support the incredible work being done at Sid Jacobson JCC, please visit sjjcc.org.