Over the past five years, The Mistletoe Ball has become more than just a holiday celebration. It has grown into a meaningful tradition of giving back to the Jersey Shore community. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our guests, sponsors, and supporters, we have proudly raised over $250,000 for charitable organizations and causes that make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Each year, we continue to build on that success, bringing our community together to celebrate the holiday season while honoring the legacy of Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan. As we enter our 6th annual Mistletoe Ball, we look forward to continuing this tradition, supporting even more meaningful causes, and making an even greater impact.
This Year’s Charities!
The CulleyStrong Foundation was born from unimaginable loss and a family’s fierce commitment to turn that pain into purpose. On January 23, 2019, the world of Sean’s family shifted forever when they lost their beloved son to suicide. In the wake of that heartbreak, they resolved to channel Sean’s kindness, athletic spirit and caring nature into a legacy of support, hope and healing. Today, through educational programs, suicide-prevention initiatives, mental-health awareness campaigns and community events, the CulleyStrong Foundation stands as a beacon for those struggling in silence. Every act of kindness, every conversation about mental-health support, and every step run in their “You Are Not Alone” 5K honors Sean’s memory and the foundation’s belief that no one should face their darkest moments alone.
The CulleyStrong Foundation
At Blue Dot, they believe that everyone — regardless of ability, background or life experience — belongs on this one beautiful blue dot we all share. Rooted in the heart of the Jersey Shore, their mission is to promote physical, cognitive and social wellness, and to foster meaningful connection between individuals with developmental, intellectual or mental-health challenges and the broader community. Through inclusive wellness classes, therapeutic services, supported employment and community volunteer opportunities, they transcend labels and invite each person to thrive, contribute and belong. With every craft session, every neighborhood outing, every shared laugh and achievement, Blue Dot transforms support into celebration, helping people feel seen, valued and empowered. Because when one person shines, the whole community lights up.
The Blue Dot Community
The Christopher J. Morrissey Foundation was born out of love and remembrance for Chris—an intelligent, kind-hearted young man whose passion for life inspired all who knew him. Though his journey was far too brief, the spark of his spirit lives on through this foundation. Dedicated to lifting up families who have suffered the loss of a child, supporting youth facing substance-awareness challenges, and awarding scholarships to emerging student-athletes, the foundation channels its work into healing, hope and possibility. By offering compassionate counseling, financial assistance, and educational opportunities, the foundation carries forward Chris’s legacy of generosity, determination and joy for living. In every scholarship granted and every family comforted, his memory guides the foundation’s mission to strengthen community, uplift young leaders, and honor lives well-lived.
Tunnels to Towers (Team Shamrock)
Team Shamrock is a fundraising group dedicated to supporting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, created in honor of 9/11 victim Donald Robertson. Inspired by the shamrock tattoo he proudly wore, his sister Kathy Cunningham founded the team to carry on his memory and spirit. Since its beginning, Team Shamrock has raised over $2 million through events like the Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk, helping fund the Foundation’s mission to provide mortgage-free homes for the families of fallen first responders and injured military heroes. What began as a tribute to one life lost has grown into a powerful community of hope, resilience, and remembrance—ensuring that those who sacrifice for our safety and freedom are never forgotten
Common Ground Grief Center, based in Manasquan, NJ, is a safe haven for children, teens, young adults, and families who have experienced the heartbreaking loss of a parent, sibling, or caregiver. Founded in 2009 by Lynn Snyder, the center was created to fill a critical need in the community: a place where young people could come together, share their grief, and know they are not alone. Through free peer-support groups, expressive activities like art, music, and play, and a compassionate community of trained volunteers, Common Ground provides comfort, hope, and healing. With each memory shared and every story honored, the center helps families navigate the painful journey of loss while building resilience and finding strength in one another.
Huntington’s Disease
The Huntington’s Disease Society of America is driven by an unwavering belief that no one facing Huntington’s disease should ever feel alone. From the moment the diagnosis is received — often devastating for individuals and their families — HDSA stands beside them with compassion, resources, and hope. Through education, advocacy, peer support, and pioneering research into treatments and a cure, this organization transforms fear and isolation into strength and community. Whether you’re living with the condition, caring for someone you love, or at risk yourself, HDSA is both lifeline and beacon — lighting a way forward where resilience meets solidarity, and tomorrow holds promise even when today is filled with challenges.