Sunrise Highlights
We are so grateful to all of our donors who make our mission possible.
How Sunrise Dared Caroline to Dream
Caroline’s journey from a camper at Sunrise Day Camp-Long Island to an inspiring young professional is a tale of resilience, hope, and dreams. “Sunrise has dared me to dream in every way possible,” Caroline reflects, attributing her personal transformation and professional aspirations to the nurturing environment and enduring relationships she found at Sunrise. After facing the challenges of cancer, it was at Sunrise that she rediscovered her sense of identity and the courage to embrace her dreams.
The profound experiences at camp didn’t just help Caroline overcome feelings of isolation; they ignited her passion and steered her educational and career choices. “I would not be the person I am today without Sunrise,” she says.
As we countdown to the 10th annual Dare to Dream event on November 15th, Caroline’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the life-changing magic of Sunrise. Join us in celebrating and supporting the dreams of countless campers like Caroline.
Spreading Sunshine in Every Season: Introducing Sunrise Day Camp-Ft. Lauderdale
Joy and happiness are in the air as we introduce two incredible programs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida! First, our new Sunrise on Wheels program at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, in partnership with the David Posnack JCC, is bringing smiles and laughter to the pediatric oncology unit twice a week. From crafting windsocks to a karaoke sing-along, our opening day was a “party on Wheels” filled with love.
In addition, we’re thrilled to debut our first-ever winter and spring break camps at Sunrise Day Camp-Ft. Lauderdale, also in partnership with the David Posnack JCC. This marks our 12th day camp location where children can experience the unique joy of Sunrise during winter from December 26-29, 2023, and January 2-5, 2024, as well as in the spring from March 25-29, 2024. Registration is now open; for more details, visit our website.
Until there’s a cure, we remain committed to ensuring that children with cancer can just be kids, spreading hope and creating memories, no matter the season.
A Heartfelt Thanks: Your Impact at Sunrise Association
A heartfelt THANK YOU to our incredible community for your impactful contributions to our Childhood Cancer Awareness Month campaign in September. For those who may have missed this opportunity to support Sunrise campers, we have some big news!
Starting with Giving Tuesday, on November 28th, and going all the way through December, your acts of love can have double the impact. Regardless of your donation size, your contribution will be matched, dollar-for-dollar! Stay tuned for more details on how to double the JOY and extend the reach of your kindness this holiday season.
Mitzvah Mural Makes Debut at SunriseWALKS Pearl River
Inspired by a strong family connection to our cause (her grandmother, Froma Benerofe, is a long-time Sunrise Association Board member), 13-year-old Ava Sophia spearheaded a meaningful mitzvah (good deed) project by creating a vibrant butterfly mural for Sunrise Day Camp-Pearl River. The project, according to Ava, symbolizes the hope, transformation, and positivity we foster at camp. 150 unique butterflies in this mural beautifully echo our diverse campers’ spirits. Among those involved were Ava’s friends, classmates, and our Camp Ambassador, 7-year-old Eden Echavarria, who shares a personal love for butterflies.
This magnificent mural, reflecting our Sunrise logo, was unveiled at SunriseWALKS Pearl River on October 15th. Adding to the joy, Ava’s team managed to raise over $8,500 for the Pearl River camp!
SunriseWALKS Pearl River had over 400 attendees, each representing inspiring stories, much like the individual butterflies in Ava’s mural. Hosted graciously for the third time by Camp Ramaquois, close to $200K was raised that morning, unveiling not just Ava’s beautiful mural but a brighter future for our campers. A big THANK YOU to all those who made it possible – our sponsors, teams, walkers, and the amazing group at Camp Ramaquois.
Sunrise and JCC Pay Tribute to Stuart Brenner
On October 8th, we celebrated the enduring legacy of Stuart Brenner, a longtime friend of Sunrise Association and a past board member and supporter of the Friedberg JCC in Oceanside, NY. At the JCC, a plaque now graces their lobby under “Susan’s Star,” a loving tribute which Stuart dedicated to his late wife when the JCC was first built. Here at Sunrise, we’ve honored his impactful contributions by dedicating our board room in his name, complete with a beautiful, commissioned piece of artwork to memorialize his influence. It was Stu who, in 2005, suggested that the new project be called “Sunrise Day Camp.” He was also a vital link between the Friedberg JCC and Sunrise, further enriching our community with love, joy, and the spirit of unity.
Going ALL IN for Sunrise!
The Sunrise Association hosted the debut “Sunrise in the City Casino Night” on Thursday, October 12th. Over 130 of our dedicated NextGen supporters came together at Manhattan’s glamorous 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar for a fantastic evening. The inaugural event successfully raised over $63,000! For those inspired to contribute or become part of our NextGen committee, please reach out
to josh.krinick@sunriseassociation.org. Come, join us, and help bring back the joys of childhood to children with cancer and their siblings!
Photos Worth a Thousand Smiles: Vote for Sunrise at COCACON 2023
Show your support for Sunrise Association Day Camps in the annual COCACON “Best Photo” competition! COCACON is the Children’s Oncology Camps Association annual convention, of which Sunrise is a major part of. Cast your vote prior to noon on Saturday, November 11. Join us in spreading the joy here.
Fundraising Events
Please join us at our events by clicking on the event title below.
Dare to Dream
November 15, 2023
The Lighthouse, Pier 61 at Chelsea Piers, NYC
Join us for cocktails and dinner at a very special 10-year anniversary of Dare to Dream, celebrating the Dreams and Vision of Arnie Preminger, our Founder, President and CEO as he leads us into the next Decade of Dreams. Tickets, sponsorships, journal ads and donations can all be purchased on our event website: daretodreamforsunrise.org. Contact Bonni Gould for more information
Champions for Charity
November 30 – December 2
Champions for Charity is an annual holiday shopping benefit hosted by Americana Manhasset. During the 3-day event, over 70 select stores at Americana Manhasset and Wheatley Plaza will donate 25% of full-price pre-tax purchases back to Sunrise Association when you use your Champion Number. Register here to shop and to designate Sunrise as your charity of choice!
