Ray Ciancaglini and his Second Impact organization are once again championing the cause of Geneva’s firemen and police officers with the Shields of Honor Gala, slated for Friday, Nov. 3, at Ventosa Vineyards.
The evening promises a memorable experience, starting with cocktails from 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and live entertainment by the Bobby Greco Band. The gala stands out not just for its celebratory atmosphere but also for its noble cause: raising funds to equip the brave individuals who put their lives on the line daily. Last year’s events garnered $26,000, which was channeled directly into procuring essential gear for these first responders.
The fundraiser will be interspersed with raffles, door prizes, and a live auction featuring sports memorabilia, including items autographed by Super Bowl champion Ali Marpet and Hall of Famer Jim Kelly. Ciancaglini highlighted the prospect of attendees leaving with memorable keepsakes, stating, “Everyone in attendance has a good chance of winning something or going home with something.” Keynote speakers for the night include Geneva’s Mayor Steve Valentino, State Sen. Pam Helming, and Police Chief Matt Colton, among others.
Ciancaglini’s commitment to the cause is deeply personal. Having endured the lasting repercussions of untreated concussions from his boxing days, leading to Parkinson’s Syndrome and CTE, he founded The Second Impact to spotlight the ramifications of ignoring concussion symptoms. The organization seeks to raise awareness, support affected individuals, and promote transparency about such symptoms. Ciancaglini’s impassioned outreach extends to educational institutions and first responder units, underscoring the critical importance of mental health and physical well-being.
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