Flowers and Philanthropy Bloom at Smile Farms’ “Sips & Stems”
May 22, 2026Smile Farms Names Justin Hayashi 2026 Growing Together Gala Honoree
July 14, 2026Smile 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.
Foursomes hit the course in support of Smile Farms during the organization’s 12th Annual Golf Outing held at Sands Point Golf Club and North Hempstead Country Club on May 18.
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.
Smile Farms’ Golf Outing honored David Hersh, Founder and Owner of Rooted Hospitality Group (center). He is pictured with his wife, Rachel Hersh, and Jim McCann, Founder and Chairman of Smile Farms.
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.
Smile Farms Heart of Gold recipient Matthew McElwee, a special education teacher at Nassau BOCES Rosemary Kennedy School and longtime Smile Farms partner, is pictured with Jim McCann, Founder and Chairman of Smile Farms.
“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.
Pictured are Smile Farms team members, Smile Farmers and volunteers at the organization’s 12th Annual Golf Outing on May 18.
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.