AHM Youth and Family Services raises over $40K

Oct. 24—Andover Hebron Marlborough Youth and Family Services received more than $40,000 through charity dinners hosted by local restaurateurs, with the most recent event held on October 3.

Over 80 local dignitaries and residents attended the "Cuisine for Charity" dinner hosted at Gina Marie's Restaurant by owners Troy and Gina Kelsey, with dishes like butternut salmon, filet and lobster pot pie donated by the Kelseys, and musical entertainment provided by Jim Ferguson.

" One hundred percent of the meals, bar tab and staff tips were all donated to support AHM programs and services for local children, teens, young adults and seniors," AHM's Board President Brendan Shea said. "The generosity of the Gina Marie's family and staff is making a great difference in the helping youth services continue providing programs for residents."

Part of the proceeds from the dinner will go toward the AHM Children's Trust Fund Endowment, in memory of Anthony Mendillo, Gina Kelsey's father, who passed earlier this year.

The Kelseys have been hosting the annual dinner for a decade, and AHM presented them with a plaque thanking them for their service to the community.

" Ten years later, and after tonight, we estimate a cumulative total of more than $40,000 in contributions from the Gina Marie's dinner has supported counseling and social work services for children experiencing trauma, depression, substance abuse, isolation and a long list of other personal family hardships," said Sara Tarca, the AHM Board vice president. "The funds from this event have helped support services such as the Lanterns Mentoring Program, the Family Resource Center, the Juvenile Review Board, the Performing Arts [theater] and the CHORES program for our local seniors."

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