Easter egg hunt to raise funds for VFW

By Michael J. Billoni

Senior Contributing Writer

Autumn Spinella and her husband, Joseph, had always wanted to do something special to raise much-needed funds for Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9249 and its auxiliary. Their opportunity came last year when they organized an extremely successful Easter egg hunt on the VFW grounds at 2121 Grand Island Blvd.

Despite having only one week to put the entire event together, they still presented the VFW with a check for $700.

Their goal is much higher this year.

“It was such a huge hit for all the kids and families who participated that we have decided to make this an annual event on Grand Island,” an enthusiastic Autumn Spinella explained. “All of the funds raised directly benefit the VFW Post 9249 and its auxiliary’s invaluable work in providing assistance and support to veterans and their families through various service projects and programs for the youth on Grand Island.”

The Spinella family’s second annual free Easter egg hunt will be held from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, March 30, on the VFW grounds. They welcome the community for “an afternoon of joy and celebration” as they have organized multiple Easter egg hunts for children of all ages, a visit from the Easter Bunny, face painting, a variety of food options, and a 50-50 raffle.

“The event promises to be an unforgettable experience for the entire family while helping us support our local heroes – the veterans of the United States Armed Forces,” Autumn Spinella said.

In order to raise more funds for the VFW, the Spinellas have created sponsorship packages for local businesses to support the Easter egg hunt. They are also looking for volunteers and artists for face painting, kid’s games and crafts and donations of baskets. For more Information, contact Autumn Spinella at [email protected] or 716-912-7331.

“If families would like to help us cut down on expenses, please consider donating hamburgers, hot dogs and juice boxes,” she said. “The more we receive in donations, the more we can give to the VFW.”