Every year, the Knights of Columbus – James Norton Council make the holiday season a little brighter for AHRC Nassau. Since 1988, past Grand Knight Richie Alois has made an annual donation and hosted a holiday party on the first Tuesday in December, primarily for residents of AHRC group homes near Glen Cove. Many of the attendees return year after year, with some first attending as teenagers.

“I love to run the parties,” said Richie. “Our council has always been involved with AHRC.”

This year, the Knights again welcomed 200 party-goers of all faiths for festive fun, including a DJ, games, a dinner, a visit from Santa with gifts and a tree lighting.

The tree lighting is a Knights of Columbus program that takes place at the same time across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

Planning of this party is very much a family affair, with Richie’s wife Kathy and three children assisting with all aspects of the event – beginning when one of their children was so small he fell asleep on a step of the mansion’s staircase. The Alois children, who are all grown now, still help out, from wrapping gifts to lending a hand at the event.

“The Monday before the event, we all decorate for the party. It’s our start to the holiday season. It doesn’t matter what your religion,” said Kathy.