Long Island Heroes Celebration

Long Island Heroes Celebration

Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Heritage Club at Bethpage
99 Quaker Meeting House Road
Farmingdale, NY 11735

Attire: Business/Professional

For more than 100 years the American Red Cross on Long Island has helped the community prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies. This fall, we will recognize heroic individuals and compassionate leaders who embody our humanitarian mission at the Long Island Heroes Celebration.

The American Red Cross Heroes Celebration is the signature fundraising event for the American Red Cross on Long Island, serving Nassau and Suffolk counties.

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2026 HONOREES

Humanitarian Award: Harvey Weisenberg
A lifelong Long Beach resident, Harvey Weisenberg has spent decades asking a simple question: How can I help? From serving as a lifeguard, police officer, teacher, and New York State Assemblyman to becoming a champion for individuals with disabilities, Harvey has dedicated his life to improving the lives of others. His compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to service continue to strengthen communities across Long Island and beyond.

Military Hero: Brandi M. Carney, LCSW
For more than 25 years, Brandi M. Carney, LCSW has dedicated her career to supporting veterans, military families, first responders, and those impacted by trauma. Through her leadership in behavioral health, her service with the American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Team, and her advocacy for military-connected communities, she has provided healing, hope, and support to countless individuals throughout Long Island.

First Responder Hero: Officer Freddy Cerpa
In a matter of weeks, Officer Freddy Cerpa helped save the lives of two young children experiencing life threatening choking emergencies. First, while off duty in his own neighborhood, and later while serving in the Bronx, Freddy acted quickly, calmly, and decisively to restore both children's breathing before they could receive further medical care. His actions reflect extraordinary courage and an unwavering commitment to protecting others.

Help Can't Wait Hero: Susanne Deegan
What began as a routine conversation at a local restaurant became a life changing act of generosity when Susanne Deegan learned that manager David Geliashvili needed a kidney transplant. Susanne immediately volunteered to be tested and was ultimately found to be a match, giving David a second chance at life. Her selfless decision demonstrates the extraordinary impact that compassion, kindness, and human connection can have on another person.

Youth Hero: Finn Schiavone
After a devastating wrestling injury left him paralyzed and unable to walk, talk, read, or write, Finn Schiavone embarked on an extraordinary journey of recovery. Through years of determination, rehabilitation, and perseverance, he regained his independence and returned to living an active life. Inspired by the legacy of Lt. Michael P. Murphy, Finn has transformed adversity into purpose and continues to inspire others with his resilience and strength.

Community Impact Legacy Hero: Tom Von Essen
For more than four decades, Tom Von Essen has dedicated his life to public service and leadership. As New York City's Fire Commissioner during September 11, he helped lead the FDNY through one of the most challenging moments in our nation's history and has since remained a passionate advocate for first responder health, safety, and preparedness. His enduring commitment to serving others has left a lasting impact on communities across New York.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Hero Sponsor

Visionary Sponsors

Match Sponsors

Community Sponsors

Lockton Companies

Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine Coatings

United Rentals

Breakfast Champions

AARP Long Island

Bethay Consultants, Inc.

Mercury Paint

NEAP (National EAP, Inc.)

Media Sponsors

As of September 14, 2026

Thank You to Our Heroes Celebration Committee

Co-Chairs: Ryan Attard and James Quent

Brian L. Bank, Elaine Biller, Su Chen, Ali Jabbour, Andrea Kantor, Greg Lavine, Alexis Morledge, Amar Nanugonda, Magda Paris, Djenny Passe, Stacey Sweet, Debbie Tinnirello

Take a look back at our hero videos from the 2025 Long Island Heroes Celebration.

Community Impact Hero: Luv Michael - VIDEO
 
First Responder Heroes: Officers Timothy Deegan and Matthew Walling - VIDEO
 
Global Citizenship Hero: Tochi Iroku-Malize, MD, MPH, MBA - VIDEO
 
Disaster Hero: Jennifer Keane - VIDEO
 
Military Hero: Mel Cohen - VIDEO
  
Youth Heroes: Charlie Dubofsky and Sydney Hassenbein - VIDEO

2025 Event Photos

2025 Event Program