April 22, 2026 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The staggering impact of co-occurring substance use and mental health challenges touches nearly every family and community. Out of personal loss and a desire to create hope, the Basket of Hope event was founded in 2024 by Lisa La Macchia in memory of her brother, Shaun La Macchia, who tragically lost his life to an overdose. The Basket of Hope event will be a wonderful opportunity for Long Islanders to help in this fight, while enjoying an evening of raffles, food and fun.
This year, we are honored to recognize Hira Ruskin for her unwavering dedication to community advocacy and mental health awareness. In tribute to her leadership and compassionate commitment to those in need, Hira will also present the Dominick Thomas Peluso III Mental Health Advocacy Award. This award pays loving homage to Dominick’s life and legacy, celebrating individuals whose courage, empathy, and advocacy help advance vital mental health support across our communities.
Together with the Shaun La Macchia Award—created to honor Shaun’s life and serve as a reminder of the power of compassion, understanding, and hope—these recognitions reflect the true heart of this event. They honor lives lost, uplift enduring legacies, and inspire our continued commitment to mental health and substance use advocacy.
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Hira Ruskin, Northwell Health VP of Operations at Health Management BIO
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