Cocktails for a Cause – Event Recap

On Saturday, our community came together in an incredible show of support for one-year-old Jackson Berry and his family while he courageously fights against leukemia — and because of the generosity of so many, we’re proud to share that over $10,000 was raised through ticket sales, donations, raffles, and sponsorships. Your kindness and willingness to rally around this family made a real, tangible impact.

This year’s sold-out event was a powerful reminder of how much good can happen when people unite behind a child and a family in need.

 


 

A Special Moment of Generosity

One of the most touching highlights of the evening came from the Jillian Metcalf Foundation. After reading about our event in Fire Island News, they attended in person to hand-deliver a $2,500 donation to support Jackson. Their unexpected generosity set the tone for a night filled with compassion and community spirit.
 


 

Spreading the Word

This event became a true community movement thanks to the many people and organizations who helped spread awareness:

Because of you, the momentum grew — and so did the impact.

 


 

Our Sponsors

This event would not have been possible without the incredible support of our sponsors

A heartfelt thank-you to:

Your partnership and generosity helped elevate this event and played a major role in its success.

 


 

Donors

We were honored to have 46 raffle sponsors, each contributing gifts, services, and experiences that made our Chinese auction truly outstanding. These donations not only added excitement to the event but also significantly contributed to the funds raised for Jackson.

 


 

Those Who Gave Their Time & Talent

Events like this succeed because people are willing to give more than money — they give their heart, their time, and their talent.

Our board members did exactly that:

  • President: Nikolai Belinsky
  • Vice President: Laura Gottfried
  • Secretary: Candice Belinsky
  • Treasurer: Elvis Cage
  • Director of Member Services: Jason Fitzpatrick

Their dedication and countless hours behind the scenes helped bring this event to life.

Additional thanks go to:

  • Kyle Thompson and Youth Ambassador AnnaBella Larson for expertly running check-in and selling raffle tickets.
  • Minuteman Press of East Northport, who generously donated all event printing, including signage and promotional materials.
  • The Rustic Workshop, for donating a raffle item and the beautifully crafted wood ornaments for our goody bags.
  • Bulovas Restorations, for supplying hand sanitizers for the goody bags.
  • Tap Room, for donating dessert and helping create a welcoming space for our event.

 


 

From Shaun & Jenna

Jackson’s parents, Shaun and Jenna, share their gratitude with everyone who attended or contributed. The money raised gives them something priceless: the ability to focus fully on Jackson and his road to recovery. Your support helps ease the many burdens they face so they can put their energy where it matters most — their son.

 


 

A Community United

Throughout the night, one theme became clear: people showed up for many different reasons, but all with the same heart.

Some attendees were longtime friends of the Berry family.
Some had lost loved ones to cancer, or supported someone through treatment, and felt called to help.
Some simply saw a child in need and chose to step up.

Whatever brought you there, your presence made a difference.

You helped lift up a family facing the unimaginable.
You helped bring hope to a little boy fighting a big battle.
You showed what the Late Knight Warrior community truly means.

 


 

Thank You

To everyone who bought a ticket, made a donation, sponsored the event, donated a prize, shared the event, or simply showed up — thank you. Your kindness and generosity created a night that will not be forgotten.

Together, we made an impact.
Together, we helped lighten a family’s load.
Together, we showed Jackson and his family that they are not alone.

💙 Thank you for being part of Cocktails for a Cause.

Premier Event Sponsors:

In-Kind Donors:

Meet Jackson Berry

You all know our Cocktails for a Cause event was to benefit Jackson — but do you know who Jackson Berry really is? 💛
 
In late August 2025, one-year-old Jackson began feeling unwell. What first seemed like teething or a simple virus quickly turned into something far more serious. After being taken to Stony Brook University Hospital, doctors discovered that Jackson’s body was no longer producing blood.
He was rushed to the ICU for immediate transfusions and soon diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) — a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer. Jackson has since undergone multiple rounds of chemotherapy and countless transfusions, and is now preparing for a bone marrow transplant at Columbia University Hospital.
 
Through it all, Jackson’s spirit shines. At just 15 months old, he’s curious, playful, and full of light — exploring, learning, and smiling his way through even the toughest days.
 
Every ticket sold and every donation made for Cocktails for a Cause directly supports Jackson’s family as they focus on what matters most — his recovery.

You Can Still Donate To Jackson: