Summit, NJ – Over 100 local residents gathered at The Whiskey Lounge at The Albion on Thursday to attend the second annual “Grab a Girlfriend” event, a fundraising initiative held by Overlook Auxiliary NP Twig 10.
The event, which aimed to raise funds for the Child Life program at Overlook Medical Center, brought the community together to support a cause close to many hearts.
The Child Life program at Overlook is dedicated to enhancing the emotional and physical well-being of children undergoing medical treatment. With only two specialists currently serving the pediatric population, the program relies heavily on community donations to provide developmentally appropriate activities, craft kits, and support for young patients and their families. The funds raised at the event will directly benefit these efforts, helping to bring comfort and creativity to children during their hospital stays.
“The support we’ve received tonight is absolutely overwhelming,” said Melissa Hartzel Galileo, president of the Overlook Auxiliary. “Child Life is such a vital service to the children and families in our community, and it means so much to see so many people here to support the program.”
Galileo explained that Child Life specialists are trained in child development and are experts in understanding how hospitalization, illness, and injury can affect children and their families.
“They provide education to the parents and give support to the kids, including gifts to help them feel more comfortable,” she said. “Everyone has experienced the anxiety of seeing a child sick or going through surgery they weren’t prepared for. Child Life helps alleviate that stress.”
The event was not only an opportunity to raise funds but also a chance for the community to learn more about the vital work being done by the Overlook Auxiliary. The organization, founded in 1916, has over 300 active members and has contributed more than $21 million to Overlook Medical Center throughout its history.
Former Overlook Auxiliary president Virginia Cepeda, who led the organization for two years, spoke about the personal connection she has to Overlook.
“It’s very rewarding to give back to your community hospital,” Cepeda said. “I was actually treated at Overlook for breast cancer, so being able to give back to oncology and to the doctors who saved my life was a full-circle moment. Overlook is like a second home to me.”
The funds raised from events like “Grab a Girlfriend” are essential for ensuring that the hospital’s Child Life specialists can continue their work. According to Galileo, the two specialists work long shifts, including 12-hour days, to ensure every pediatric patient receives the care and emotional support they need.
“It’s a big job with a small team, but they make a tremendous difference,” Galileo added.
In addition to supporting Child Life, the Overlook Auxiliary also aims to address broader community needs, with a particular focus on mental health and staff well-being in the years to come.
“For 2025, we want to continue supporting the hospital and the community, with a big focus on mental health, children’s well-being, and the staff who take care of everyone,” Galileo explained.
The Overlook Auxiliary invites community members to get involved in their efforts. “We are always looking for volunteers,” Galileo said. “Whether you want to help in The Gift Shop & Bloom, volunteer at events like this, or get involved with our Twig groups, there are plenty of ways to make a difference.
We’re happy to meet with anyone interested to see what fits best.”
NP Twig 10 is led by Karen Canniffe and Meghan Schorr. The Co-Chairs of the Grab a Girlfriend event are: Kate McNamara, Dena Peyster, and Jackie Pinchuk and committee members who supported them are: Cathy Maurer, Kristine Perillo, Caitlin Prpora, Jen Katz, Stacy Weinstein and Joanna Santiago.
NP Twig 10 was founded in 2014 by Karen Canniffe as a way to give back to her community, set an example for her daughters, and stay connected with both old friends from Madison, NJ and new friends in New Providence and Summit, NJ.
What started with just 10 members and a blood drive has since grown to over 65 members, hosting impactful initiatives like Thanksgiving Baskets feeding over 500 families annually, Rainbow Signs, Mother’s Day flowers for Overlook medical center patients, and numerous other fundraisers and service events.
As the night drew to a close, the sense of community was palpable. The funds raised, and the awareness generated during the “Grab a Girlfriend” event will have a lasting impact on the families and children served by the Child Life program at Overlook Medical Center.
“The people here tonight are truly helping to make a difference,” Galileo said. “We are so grateful for their generosity and support.”
For more information about the Overlook Auxiliary or to get involved, visit https://www.oaux.org/.