Spaghetti Dinner Spreads Smiles for Golisano Children's Hospital

ROCHESTER, NY (03/30/2011)(readMedia)-- Take a break from hectic schedules to enjoy a perfect family fun night while donating to a worthy cause. The fourth annual SMILE spaghetti dinner runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 1, at St. John's Church, 8 Wickford Way, Fairport. The fundraiser will benefit the Cleft and Craniofacial Center at Golisano Children's Hospital at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

This family-friendly event, which offers a variety of games along with arts and crafts for children, is hosted by Nazareth College's Communication Sciences and Disorders Association. Ticket cost $6 for adults, $4 for children ages 3 to 9, and $20 for families of five or more. Take-out containers are available for $6 per meal. Local companies such as LiDestri Foods, Barilla Pasta and Monks' Bread will be donating the food served.

"All the families have such a great time. It's an evening out for families to relax and visit with each other," said Mary Sweeney, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Nazareth College.

Raffle tickets will be sold for $1 each and the winner will receive a gift basket. Last year, $2,400 was raised with help from the raffle tickets. This fundraiser has drawn in large crowds before with about 275 people in 2010, and this year the organizers expect a good turnout as well. To ensure your spot and a delicious meal, get tickets early.

"I enjoy the great sense of community and it's nice to see families together outside of the hospital," said Allison Baggiano, student at Nazareth College and co-chair of the food committee for the dinner.

To order tickets, call Mary Sweeney at (585) 389-2779 or email csda@naz.edu.