The Joey Bella Memorial Fund – a not-for-profit organization that helps raise money for families dealing with a life-threatening illness – is inviting the public to its summer fundraiser, “Band, Beer and BBQ,” at Gardner Field in Denville on Sunday, July 3 at 6 p.m.
“For those not headed to the Jersey shore, it will be a great way to celebrate the holiday weekend. People can enjoy live music, an array of micro-brewed beers and award-winning barbeque – all while supporting a worthy cause,” said Joey Bella Board Member Eileen Russick. “It is events like this that help sustain our mission and allow us to continue to be there for our families.”
“Band, Beer and BBQ” will feature America’s #1 show band, The Infernos; Texas-style barbeque provided by Texas Smoke BBQ in Rockaway, and an assortment of more than 18 beers from local micro-brewers.
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“We want to reach a younger demographic of New Jersey residents in hopes they will find the time to get involved in our organization or find a way to support it,” said Russick.
Joey Bella was just two-and-a-half years old when he was diagnosed with acute lymphatic leukemia. By the time he was 5, his only hope for survival was a bone marrow transplant and Joey passed away before it was possible. The fund lives on in his memory to help families in similar need by providing the financial resources necessary to pay medical bills and other expenses.
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“The responsibility of caring for someone with a serious illness can uproot families, pull parents from their jobs and challenge every aspect of a family financially and emotionally. Our goal is to help families stay afloat during difficult times,” said Russick.
In its 20-year history, Joey Bella has provided more than $1 million to more than 40 households. The organization serves Denville, Rockaway Borough, Rockaway Township, Boonton, Mount Tabor, Rainbow Lakes, Morris Plains, Randolph and is currently assisting eight local families, with plans to take on one more this year.
Tickets to Joey Bella’s “Band, Beer and BBQ” fundraiser are $45 each (all-you-can-eat and drink) and are available by calling (973) 627-2663. For more information about the Joey Bella Memorial Fund, visit www.joeybella.org.
