Tommy Brull Foundation raises funds and spirits

Hundreds gathered for the annual Tommy Brull Foundation Fundraiser on Nov. 9. The event raised nearly $45,000 for several organizations that help people with physical, mental and emotional disabilities.
"We were extremely pleased with our community’s generosity and support for our 12th annual fundraiser," said Martin Brull, president of the foundation. "I am fairly certain it was the biggest showing."
This year’s fundraising recipients were Empower Spinal Cord Injury, Inc., L.I. Rough Rider Sled Hockey, Exceptional Artists Foundation, Connor and Friends, Hoops For All, MOVE Program, Tommy Brull Adaptive Surf Program, RVC Challenger Baseball League, Ladybug Ball, Centre Stage, Top Soccer and Pro Wrestling Day at Camp ANCHOR.
In addition, the event honored Ashley Andree with the Tommy Brull Courage and Resilience Award. "Her speech was heartfelt and very touching," Brull said. "You could definitely see how happy and proud she was to receive it."
Finally, the foundation presented a video recap of 2019 made by a friend of the foundation, Rich Miceli. The video included photos from the organization's 2019 events, including the Lady Bug Ball, Tommy Brull Surf Program and Shine a Light concerts. It also featured photos of Tommy, Brull's brother who died in an accident in 1999, throughout his life and was set to the new Wilco song "Love is Everywhere."
"I think this video perfectly captures what we are all about and I was very proud to present it to our guests," Brull said. "We are blessed to have so many beautiful people support what we do."