'Cake Boss' Buddy Valastro Honored at Annual Children's Institute Fundraiser

It's right there in black and white: Buddy Valastro's cake, that is. Emblazoned with the Children's Institute logo, a sheet cake at least three feet long was the baker's gift to the Verona private school. It took center stage at “A Night of Two Stars”, a dinner and silent auction to benefit the school. Guests who purchased tickets arrived to a set up of two rooms, the first packed with donated prizes such as a weekend in Chicago, signed sports memorabilia, and jewelry, among other things, available for a silent auction. The second room was a lavish arrangement of hors d'ouvres and appetizers, as well as a bar. When "Cake Boss" Valastro arrived, he mingled with guests as they took the great opportunity to get a photo with the star and ask him a few questions.  

Valastro became involved with the event when a neighbor of his, and a father of a student at the Children's Institute, asked for his help. "He brought me to see the school, and I didn't know what the school was all about until I went there. But to see exactly what they do for these children is magnificent... these children have a place to go so they could excel, they could be themselves, they're in a safe environment, they get the attention, the treatment they deserve." Valastro said. "To tell you the truth, after I left the school, I had a tear in my eye. So I'm very honored to be here and to be a part of this tonight and to lend my support."

Close to 300 people attended "A Night of Two Stars", the 5th annual fundraising event organized by a small planning committee made up of members of the Parent Staff Organization, or PSO, of the Children's Institute. PSO President Karen McGuire, and parent of a Children's Institute student said, "All the money from this fundraiser goes directly back to helping the children." The money raised is used for initiatives not covered by tuition such as technologically advanced learning tools, extracurricular programs, and ongoing workshops for the educators and staff. Of Valastro, McGuire said, "It's wonderful, we are so thrilled, and he made the most beautiful cake...he could not have been more generous with his time."

An after-dinner presentation included a speech by "Cake Boss" Valastro and a short video he filmed as part of his visit to the school in March. The video included students of the school spoofing "Cake Boss" and a cameo by the boss himself, Buddy Valastro.