Alyssa’s Angels to collaborate with WLB on Conway Park plans
In 2004, borough residents Antonio and Casey Cantaffa started a foundation that would raise funds for mentally and physically challenged children to provide for their special needs. Their daughter, Alyssa, was three weeks old when she contracted whooping cough, which almost cost her her life and left her seriously handicapped. The family wanted to help other children with problems such as spinal bifida andother physical and mental difficulties.
They have raised funds for several situations affecting children; some for individuals, where funds were needed for families who could not afford treatments, and some for special equipment. For example, on Route 537 in Colts Neck,, at Dorbrook Park there is a device, called a Sure Hands Lift, that will lift a child from a wheelchair onto a horse so they may enjoy horseback riding, or use playground sides and teeter totters where they might not otherwise be able to.
Then the Cantaffas learned about the West Long Branch Recreation Committee’s plans to rebuild Conway Park and make it usable for residents. The park lends itself to passive recreation for both adults and children’s use. The Cantaffas contacted the Committee in the hope Alyssa’s Angels, the foundation they established, could be a part of the development, particularly the possibility of having developing special equipment for youngsters not be able to use traditional playground and other accessories.
On Monday, January 9, several members of Alyssa’s Angels Board of Trustees met with the Recreation Committee, explained their purpose, and offered to provide support and partnership to the borough’s endeavors. The foundation will participate in the park design and will provide funding and other support. It is their intention to be included in the planning and implementation of the park’s revitalization so it meets the special needs the Cantaffas outlined.
On Saturday, January 27, at Old Orchard Country Club in Eatontown, the foundation will hold its second annual fund raising event, “ANight Of Angels.”
Some of the funds will be used as needed for the Conway Park project, as well as other needs. The event is a gift auction, which includes a dinner and open bar, plus DJ music at $75 per person. The time is 7:00 p.m. Last year’s event was a huge success.
If you wish to attend or want more information, you may write to Alyssa’s Angels, P.O. Box 93, West Long Branch, NJ 07764. Tickets may be purchased at the door.
