Smile Farms Drives Opportunity at 12th Annual Golf Outing

Jericho, New York, May 22, 2026. Smile Farms welcomed supporters, sponsors, and volunteers to its 12th Annual Golf Outing on May 18, raising funds and awareness for its mission to create meaningful employment and vocational training opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities.

Held at Sands Point Golf Club and North Hempstead Country Club, the outing brought together more than 200 golfers and guests for a day of philanthropy, connection, and camaraderie, underscoring Smile Farms’ growing impact across Long Island and New York City.

The event honored David Hersh, founder and owner of Rooted Hospitality Group, for his continued partnership and commitment to inclusion through his support of Smile Farms and his efforts to showcase products created by Smile Farmers throughout his restaurants.

Matthew McElwee, a teacher from Nassau BOCES Rosemary Kennedy School, was also recognized with the organization’s Heart of Gold Award for his leadership in growing the school’s horticulture program into a thriving farm that empowers students through hands-on learning while fostering confidence and connection.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s outing such a success,” said Steve McDermott, Managing Director of Smile Farms. “Their support helps create more opportunities for training and employment while empowering our Smile Farmers to grow in confidence, independence, and purpose.”

Smile Farms extends a special thank you to all sponsors and golfers, especially Pellera Technologies, Rafferty Holdings, and Council 1869, along with the golf outing committee, volunteers, and in-kind donors whose generosity and dedication made the outing possible.

Smile Farms, the proud philanthropic partner of 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc., currently operates approximately 14 campus locations across Long Island and New York City in partnership with schools, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations. These partnerships help hundreds of individuals with developmental disabilities gain valuable real-world experience and meaningful opportunities.

For more information about Smile Farms or to support its mission, visit www.smilefarms.org.

About Smile Farms

Smile Farms is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating meaningful employment and training opportunities for people with developmental disabilities across Long Island and New York City.

For more information, visit www.smilefarms.org.