The Kiwanettes of Oceanside marked more than seven decades of community service during their annual fundraising gala April 23 at O’Connell Gardens at the Knights of Columbus, honoring two local women whose volunteerism and leadership have made a lasting impact.
Denise Elardo, owner of Charlie’s Butcher, received the organization’s 2026 Public Service Award, while longtime community advocate Nancy Baxter was presented with the 2026 Leadership Award.
The event celebrated not only the honorees, but also the Kiwanettes’ mission of service, which dates back to the group’s founding in 1955. The organization was established as a women-led counterpart to the Kiwanis Club at a time when women were not permitted to join the original civic group.
“They’ve been in existence for the past 70 years,” said Maria Heller, a Kiwanettes member. “They take care of the senior citizens in town, and everything they do is about giving back to the community.”
Each year, the gala serves as the group’s primary fundraiser, with proceeds supporting a range of local initiatives. Among them are an annual luncheon for seniors, scholarships for Oceanside High School students, and “comfort cards” distributed to patients at Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital. The cards include small items such as books, snacks and coloring materials intended to brighten patients’ stays.
Kiwanettes President Tara Roth Ramos said the organization also supports a variety of local charities, including food pantries, veterans’ groups and family assistance programs. Seasonal efforts include providing Thanksgiving and holiday gifts for families in need.
“Our members have worked tirelessly to support local families and individuals throughout the Oceanside area,” Ramos said in a statement. “With the community’s generosity, we’re able to provide meaningful assistance to those who need it most.”
A central part of the evening is the recognition of individuals whose service reflects the organization’s values. According to Heller, the Leadership Award honors someone who demonstrates “vision, integrity and dedication” while inspiring others through action and teamwork. The Public Service Award recognizes those who have made significant contributions through volunteerism and a commitment to the public good.
“This is really about highlighting people you may not fully know behind the scenes,” Heller said. “You hear everything they’ve done, and it’s incredible.”
Heller noted that many recipients, including this year’s honorees, often carry out their work quietly.
“There are a lot of people who don’t seek recognition,” she said. “They just do it because they care about the community.”
In addition to ticket sales, the gala raises funds through raffles, a 50/50 drawing and a commemorative journal featuring advertisements and messages from local businesses. The journal alone typically generates several thousand dollars in support.
Organizers described this year’s event as both festive and meaningful, with decorations, door prizes and strong community turnout contributing to the evening’s success.
While the gala celebrates individual achievements, members emphasized that its broader purpose is to sustain the Kiwanettes’ year-round service efforts.
“All the proceeds go right back into the organization,” Heller said. “Everything we raise goes back to helping people here in Oceanside.”
As the Kiwanettes continue their work, members say the annual gala remains a powerful reminder of the community’s generosity — and the impact of recognizing those who give their time and energy to others.
“Oceanside should be proud,” Heller said. “There are so many people doing incredible things, and they deserve to be recognized.”
