Community takes on an even greater meaning in the face of challenges and hardships. One local 501(c)(3) charitable organization that embodies that spirit is Toast Pink.
The mission of Toast Pink is to assist cancer patients and their families in the communities where we live and work. The organization aims to meet financial needs on a very personal level, offering support such as chemotherapy transportation, housing assistance, durable medical equipment and help bridging the gap of uncovered medical expenses.
Founded by locals Joseph Orazi and Aria Mazer in 2012, their passion has grown into an organization that not only helps those struggling with cancer in our community, but also gives individuals and families hope and a renewed sense of support. Along with an extensive board and dedicated volunteers, the founders share a common goal of helping people navigate what is often one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Toast Pink pays third parties on behalf of its applicants, covering expenses such as mortgages, rent, utilities, insurance and car payments. To date, the organization has funded applications totaling more than $100,000. Since Toast Pink operates entirely with volunteers, more than 80% of the funds they raise go directly to those who need it most right here in the community.
To help provide this support for local families, the organization relies heavily on the surrounding community. Throughout the year, Toast Pink hosts several fundraisers, with its largest event just around the corner.
Toast Pink will host its annual gala on Saturday, April 18, at The Flanders Hotel in Ocean City. The organization promises a night filled with great food, live music, raffles, auction items, dancing and an open bar, all in support of a meaningful cause.
This year marks the organization’s 14th annual gala, and organizers expect around 150 attendees. The theme for the evening is “La Dolce Vita.”
“It means ‘the good life,’ and that connects to our mission and how we’re trying to help people live a better and good life,” said Christopher Pusak, public relations director of Toast Pink.
The organization selected The Flanders Hotel as the venue due to the strong partnership the two have built over the years. Pusak shared that the hotel has supported Toast Pink in many ways, helping the organization continue its mission of serving local families.
In keeping with the strong sense of community that defines Toast Pink, all raffle and silent auction items are donated by local businesses and professionals. Pusak noted that Wawa and Bernie Robbins are new sponsors this year, and the organization is excited to welcome them.
Since Toast Pink relies entirely on volunteers and community support, events like the annual gala are essential, not only to raise funds, but also to spread awareness about the organization and the impact cancer has on families within our community.
Toast Pink hopes to remind people that while cancer is unfortunately common, there are also many individuals and organizations working to support those facing the disease and help ease the burden it creates.
Pusak shared that every member of the board has been touched by cancer in some way. Since joining, he said he has found a group of remarkable individuals who are committed to making a difference together.
“We want everyone to come and have a good time at the gala and be as generous as they can be,” Pusak said.
An evening of joy, music, food and celebration may be just the perfect way to support Toast Pink’s mission. Tickets for the annual gala are currently available at toastpink.org.
