On May 2, 2023, Farnum, a program of Easterseals NH, VT, and Farnum, marked 10 years of celebrating staff, clients, and alumni at its annual Spirit of Hope fundraiser. Over 160 guests gathered at The Factory on Willow in Manchester for an evening of inspirational speeches and stories by Farnum and Manchester community members.
The Spirit of Hope program featured remarks by U.S. Congressman Chris Pappas and the presentation of the Eliot Priest Founder’s Award to Roberta Coutu by Eliot Priest’s grandson, Ian MacDermott. Farnum alumnus Joe Tasker was honored with a standing ovation following his video presentation and remarks by his former Farnum counselor, Alyse Fusco. Farnum staff participated in a “What Motivates Me” video that kicked off the Spirit of Hope program. Scott Spradling of Spradling Group acted as master of ceremonies.
Current Farnum clients created shadowboxes with inspiring quotes for purchase by donation during the event. Guests were invited to donate to Farnum programs online or by buying items from Farnum’s Amazon Wishlist that would directly support treatment and recovery.
The 2023 Spirit of Hope event was sponsored in part by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Dunkin’ – The Scrivanos Group, Catholic Medical Center, AmeriHealthCaritas, Sousa Signs, Wieczorek Insurance, WellSense Health Plan.