HONORING THOSE WHO INSPIRE US

Meet Our 2026 Honorees

This year’s honorees represent the very heart of Cardinal McCloskey Community Services. Through their generosity, leadership, and unwavering commitment, they have helped strengthen our mission and create a lasting legacy of compassion and hope.

The Grossman Linde Family

George Grossman and his family have shared a longstanding connection with Cardinal McCloskey Community Services, rooted in their family’s personal experience with the agency and a deep commitment to its work. George has served CMCS for many years as a member of the Board of Directors and has also supported the organization’s fundraising efforts, including leadership of our Major Gifts Campaign.

Together, the Grossman Linde family’s relationship with Cardinal McCloskey reflects years of dedication, advocacy, and support for the children, adults, and families we serve.

The Houghton Family

Charles “Chuck” F. Houghton, Jr. dedicated more than two decades of service to Cardinal McCloskey Community Services as a devoted member of the Board of Directors. During his tenure, Chuck served as Vice Chair and was appointed Chairman of the Board in 2015.

Chuck lived a life centered on helping others and was deeply committed to the children, families, and adults with developmental disabilities in our care. Known for his warm smile, generosity of spirit, and genuine kindness, he embodied the true meaning of a Cardinal McCloskey ambassador.

For many years, Chuck’s name was honored through the award presented at our Annual Wine Tasting, recognizing individuals who shared his dedication to service and compassion for others. As we celebrate our 80th Anniversary, we are proud to honor the Houghton family and recognize Chuck’s enduring legacy of leadership and generosity.

We are especially grateful for the continued involvement of his daughter, Elizabeth Houghton LaGreca, who carries forward the family’s commitment to Cardinal McCloskey through her service on our Board of Directors.

Hearts To Homes Furnishings, Inc.

Cardinal McCloskey Community Services is proud to honor Hearts to Homes Furnishings, a nonprofit dedicated to helping young adults transition successfully from foster care to independent living. Founded in 2016 by Mary Theresa McCombe, the organization provides essential furnishings, household goods, food, clothing, and other necessities that transform empty apartments into welcoming homes. In the last ten years, Hearts to Homes has supported more than 1,000 young people across New York and provided nearly $2 million in furnishings and supplies.

The connection between Hearts to Homes and CMCS is especially meaningful. CMCS was the organization’s founding partner, and the McCombe family has been a valued friend and supporter of Cardinal McCloskey Community Services for many years, reflecting a shared commitment to serving vulnerable children, youth, and families. Together, they have helped ensure that young people aging out of foster care have the resources, stability, and support needed to build successful and independent lives. 

As CMCS celebrates its 80th Anniversary, we are honored to recognize Hearts to Homes for its dedication, compassion, and lasting impact on the lives of young adults transitioning from foster care to adulthood.

80th Anniversary Gala Committee

Honorary Legacy Chairs

Lori & Paul* Guillaro

Co-Chairs

Elise & Philip Orlando

Committee Members

Yen-Yi Anderson*
Eugene & Susan DeSoiza, Jr.
Kevin & Beth Finnerty
Gilbert Landy*
Jeanne Mastoloni-Almeida*
Maureen Medure
Sydnie Sousa*
Kim* & Dan Turner
Virginia Wilson*

Gala Host Committee

Members

Brown & Brown Insurance
Robert & Dorothy Carlson
Constance Curran
Foundation for Empowering Citizens with Autism (FECA)
Molly Houghton
The Houghton Family
Andrew & Elizabeth* LaGreca
John Lawton & Michelle Shaver
Michele Lawton*
Mary Theresa & John McCombe
Orange Bank & Trust
Rita Retzlaff
Sheppard Mullin
William T. Smith, PhD
*Current CMCS Board of Directors
Former CMCS Board of Directors