Golf Outing Raises Thousands For Charity

The Debra Ann Franceschini Golf Classic was held in Garden City earlier this month, and raised tens of thousands of dollars for Life's WORC/The Family Center For Autism.

The charity is named for the late wife of restaurateur Robert Franceschini who, with Debra Ann, opened Piccolo's in Mineola in 1985. Debra Ann died in 2006, and Robert has been working ever since to keep her memory alive.

The golf classic was held on Monday, Aug. 6 at the Hempstead Country Club in Garden city, and raised about $30,000 for the charity.

Life's WORC is a 50-year-old charity that provides services to people in developmental disability communities and those with autism. It was founded by newspaper publisher Victoria Schneps and broadcast journalist Geraldo Rivera.

In September, The Family Center For Autism will be recognizing Debra Ann. As part of the celebration of her life, Robert will be preparing a special Italian lunch for people with autism and their family members.

"Through this fundraising and community outreach, this is the spirit of Debra Ann," Robert said. "She always loved getting involved, participating and helping out."

Photos courtesy Danny Frank