The Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development hosted its 41st annual gala, Havana Nights, on March 8 at the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Lancaster. The event raised $577,761, surpassing the $300,000 fundraising goal and ensuring that local children of all abilities will continue to receive therapy services, regardless of their families' financial circumstances.

The event began with a statement of gratitude for the event's sponsors, followed by a debut performance by The Unsinkables, Schreiber's modern band. The group is composed of current and former Schreiber kids Cora Hussar, Jana Kuhns, Jason Den Bleyker, and Sienna Matthews.

The inaugural Philanthropist of the Year Award was presented to Samuel N. and Dena M. Lombardo in recognition of their donation of $2.5 million toward Schreiber's recent building expansion and their continued dedication to the organization's mission. During his remarks, Sam announced an additional $200,000 pledge, significantly boosting the evening's total fundraising impact and reinforcing his family's commitment to ensuring Schreiber's future growth.

The gala also featured a live and silent auction, raising a total of $69,367 - 30% more than last year's gala - to support Schreiber's recreation, education, and therapy services.

In addition, the 2025 Schreiber Ambassadors were presented. The Ambassadors are Gavin Mitstifer, Ryley Nazario, Sirus Miklos, and Zoey Adair. Through a video presentation, attendees learned about the journeys of these children, followed by a speech from Gavin's parents, Christie and Greg Mitstifer, who shared their family's journey and the impact Schreiber's therapy services have had on their son's progress.

Gavin has participated in speech, occupational, and physical therapy for five years, and he continues to build strength and gain independence. With his physical therapist's guidance, he is currently working toward standing unassisted and taking assisted steps in aquatic therapy.

Ryley, who has Pfeiffer syndrome, has worked diligently with Schreiber's occupational and physical therapists, rebuilding her strength after surgeries, learning adaptive self-care techniques, and gaining the confidence to pursue her passions.

Living with spinal muscular atrophy, Sirus has worked with his occupational and physical therapists to master his manual wheelchair, increase his independence in daily tasks, and build the strength to stand and walk with assistance.

Diagnosed with Rett syndrome, Zoey has flourished at Schreiber, participating in multiple therapy programs and recreational activities over the last 10 years. With the help of her physical therapist, she continues to work hard and surpass expectations.

Culpeper Wood sponsors the 2025 Schreiber Ambassadors Program.

The Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development is a nationally recognized pediatric facility that provides family-centered education and therapy programs for infants, children and adolescents with disabilities, developmental delays, and acquired injuries. The center's goal-oriented approach aims to maximize each child's ability to function independently within the community. For more information, contact marketing manager Alexandra Cahill at acahill@schreiberpediatric.org or 717-344-1164. To donate or volunteer, visit http://www.schreiberpediatric.org.