Published May 15. 2024 11:14AM
by BONNIE LEE STRUNK Special to The Press
Supporters of Camelot for Children donned 1950s attire, including poodle skirts, saddle shoes and white T-shirts, and traveled back to the golden age of rock ’n’ roll during Camelot’s Cruisin’ for a Groovin’ Gala, held April 27 at America on Wheels Museum in Allentown.
The nostalgic fundraising event featured music of the era by The Mainstreet Cruisers, two disc jockeys and Elvis and Marilyn Monroe impersonators.
Classic ’50s dishes, desserts and soda floats were in abundance, and the museum’s classic and antique cars, including a new exhibit of 60 years of Mustangs, added to the atmosphere.
According to Emily Werner, executive director of the nonprofit Camelot for Children, the gala raised more than $85,000, including about $10,000 from a silent auction and a raffle.
The funds will be used to benefit the organization’s programs.
About 200 people attended the event, Werner reported.
The mission of Camelot for Children is to provide year-round social and educational opportunities at no cost for children with disabilities and terminal, chronic or serious illnesses.
The organization, founded in 1985, makes the magic of childhood accessible in a supportive, enriching environment to youths with special needs and helps them create meaningful experiences and friendships.
A popular program, which will benefit from the fundraiser, is Camelot’s free summer day camp for children ages 6 to 19.
The Monday through Friday camp, held at Camelot’s 2354 W. Emmaus Ave., Allentown, site, will include a splash pad, various sports, crafts, accessible playground and field trips.
For more information, call Camelot for Children at 610-791-5683.
Camelot for Children's board of directors gathers outside for a group photo during the organization's Cruisin' for a Groovin' Gala fundraiser, held April 27 at America on Wheels Museum, Allentown. Pictured, in back, are Nick Weidman, Carrie Wilson, Fred Saracino and Denise DiCicco and, in front, Bret Lesavoy, Katie Dwyer, Executive Director Emily Werner, Lisa Griesemer, Melissa Gerhardt and Alycia Jurell.
PRESS PHOTOS BY BONNIE LEE STRUNK Dan and Jane Garland, of Allentown, take a break from dancing to admire the Mustang exhibit. Her employer, American Bank, was a sponsor of the event.
Center Valley resident Carmelo Seguinot attends the gala event.
