The Jack Beatty Memorial Hospice Cruise and Clambake is back for its 22nd year. The event is scheduled for July 12 at the Youngstown Yacht Club.
The longtime fundraiser benefits Niagara Hospice, and allows the community the chance to enjoy the summer season in an ideal way, out on the open water, all while giving back to the community.
For more than two decades, the members of the Youngstown Yacht Club and skippers around Western New York donate their boats and time to take attendees up the Niagara River. During the cruise, participants can enjoy live music by The Junkyard Dogs who will be performing right on the river for passing boats. Following the boating portion of the event, the good times continue with a clambake and buffet featuring live music by Soul Committee.
“This year’s event is bittersweet for us following the passing of our dad, Paul Beatty, Sr. in February, who did so much over the years to make the event so successful,” co-chairman Paul Beatty, Jr. said. “Our goal is to continue his legacy of support for Niagara Hospice, raising funds for such an important organization for so many in our community.”
Since inception, the Jack Beatty Memorial Hospice Cruise and Clambake has raised more than $650,000, thanks to dedicated supporters, both on land and water. Proceeds from the event support significant projects at Niagara Hospice. Last year’s event brought in $48,000, and is being used in conjunction with donor funding to create a Memory Care Courtyard Garden at Hospice House.
Organizers are anticipating the cruise portion of this year’s event to sell out quickly. Those interested in attending are encouraged to sign up early to secure their spot. Tickets are also available for just the clambake and cookout portion of the event which will begin around 5:30 p.m.
A new component for the event is being introduced this year, called the “Whatever Floats Your Boat Regatta,” where participants can buy a “boat” for $25. The winner of the raffle takes home 30% of the proceeds.
Online registration, pricing information and further details can be found at www.hospicecruiseandclambake.com. To volunteer or offer a sponsorship contact Allison Bolt at 716-280-0766.