Knights of Columbus to Hold Fundraiser for RSHM Life Center

The Tarrytown Knights of Columbus, St. Elmo Council 318, are hosting a spaghetti dinner on Saturday, May 29 at 6:30 p.m.

According to Dave Morrison, district deputy, who organized the event, 100 percent of the ticket sales will be donated to the Religious of Sacred Heart of Mary (RSHM) Life Center in Sleepy Hollow.

"We're a Catholic, charitable organization," he said.

Morrison, who oversees five councils in total, enlisted other Knights' help in providing food for the event.

"I've been able to get about 80 percent of the food donated through a Knight in Portchester," he said. "The remaining food will be bought by the Knights—I have them coming in from different parts of the county."

The RSHM Life Center is operated by the same sisters of the RSHM Marymount Convent. Director Sister Susan Gardella noted the organization has been a part of the community for almost 15 years.

"We have services for all ages from moms and tots up through senior citizens," she said.

The Life Center is highly dedicated to education—it's fitting, as the "Life" portion of its name stands for "Learning is for Everyone."

"Our philosophy is education is the key to helping people improve their life situations," said Sister Susan, who will be delivering a speech at the fundraiser.

She said she plans to remind the community about all of the services the Life Center offers, as often, the less public programs are overlooked.

ESL for adults, after school homework help, senior citizen gatherings and a summer camp are just some of the services offered by the Life Center.

Sister Susan said the funds received from the dinner will likely go toward the upcoming summer camp sessions, a five-day per week program that lasts for five weeks.

"We try to get the kids outside; we go on several trips and it gets costly because of transportation," she said, adding that virtually every camper receives some form of financial assistance.

Morrison estimated about 40 tickets to the dinner have been sold so far, and anticipates up to 20 more, despite the holiday weekend ahead.

"It's a perfect way to bring the community together and to help the Life Center out," he said.

Tickets to the Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser are $15/person or $25/couple. To purchase tickets, call the Knights of Columbus at 631-9798. Residents are welcome to visit the RSHM Life Center to learn more about its programs.