Tulip Armstrong :
Braving one of the coldest nights of the year, over 350 community members and families gathered at the Long Island Marriott on Saturday, February 7, 2026, for the ICNA Relief New York Annual Banquet, a powerful evening of reflection, unity, and commitment to service.
With temperatures plummeting to a bone-chilling -28 degrees Fahrenheit, organizers were initially unsure if attendance would be possible. However, the turnout surpassed expectations, filling the ballroom to capacity and overwhelming the hotel’s parking lot.
Themed “Be the Door of Opportunity,” the event showcased ICNA Relief’s ongoing humanitarian efforts, which include food assistance, refugee resettlement, disaster relief, and healthcare access. The banquet also aimed to deepen community partnerships and raise support for future initiatives.
Attendees were welcomed by a series of speakers, including a university professor, a motivational speaker, and a legal expert involved in civic engagement and advocacy. Their remarks emphasized the importance of staying rooted in compassion, civic responsibility, and uplifting those in need. One speaker reminded the audience, “Every act of service opens a door—not just for those we help, but for the entire community.”
Despite the bitter cold, the energy inside the banquet hall was warm and lively. Families from across New York and New Jersey, including some traveling from remote towns, made the effort to attend. Guests were treated to dinner, heartfelt speeches, and a shared sense of purpose that extended well beyond the scheduled end time of 9 PM, with the program continuing until 10 PM.
Event organizers expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support. “This gathering affirmed the strength of the bond between ICNA Relief and the community,” one organizer noted. “It was a night of honor and pride, and we’re deeply thankful to everyone who stood with us—especially in this weather.”
The banquet not only celebrated the work of the past year but set the tone for continued action rooted in faith, resilience, and hope.
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