Spotlight | Rescuing Families, Inc.

Welcome to Broadway Stages’ Spotlight, where we feature local shops, restaurants, organizations, individuals, and venues. We encourage our readers to join us in supporting these establishments and advancing local economic growth.

Gina and Vinny Centauro founded Truly Unique Designs, a construction and renovation firm in Franklin Square on Long Island with the motto, “Making it Right One Home at a Time.” But as they were getting the business up and running, they noticed that some families were unable to repair their homes properly. They knew that people with disabilities and financial hardships struggle every day with tasks that most people find second nature.

Facing this need with a motto like that, the Centauros came up with the idea to help homeowners with disabilities and/or disabled family members with needed renovation/modification to their homes at no cost. And thus, Rescuing Families, Inc. (RFI) was born.

The Franklin Square-based organization was created to fix up houses between New Jersey and Long Island for homeowners who could not make the repairs themselves because of disabilities or a lack of funds. RFI aims to help make their lives easier by improving and/or eliminating the hurdles in their homes. The project may be a ramp that can make it easier to get in and out of their home, a bathroom in disrepair, or anything that helps overcome a struggle.

But the Centauros can’t do all this alone. They rely on donors, sponsors, and volunteers. And while their service is a boon to those in need, it is equally rewarding to the volunteers. One volunteer said, “My husband and I love being volunteers for Rescuing Families. The work that we do to help families with disabilities is so rewarding. And I can’t say enough about Gina and Vinny. They give so much of themselves to help others.” If you want to volunteer or sponsor a project, you can find more information and apply HERE. And with the climbing costs involved in their projects, RFI always needs financial support. If you would like to donate, you can click HERE.

Another way RFI raises funds is through the events they put on, such as markets that showcase local artists and small shop sellers. In fact, they will have a Holiday Craft and Gift Boutique this weekend (Nov. 18 and 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at VFW Post 2718. There will be over 30 vendors, with 95% being craft/artisans and the other 5% being vintage/collectibles and new items.

Also, at VFW Post 2718, they will host their 4th Annual Ugly Sweater Bingo Party on Friday, Dec. 1, from 7 to 11 p.m. There will be a lot of chances to win cash and prizes all night, plus food and drink. Seating is limited, and this is a popular event, so get your tickets today! You can contact them at 516-697-9403 or at rescuingfamiliesinc@gmail.com.

Check out their events page HERE to stay informed about upcoming events. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook for more information and inspiring stories.

Broadway Stages takes pride in being a business that gives back to and promotes the communities around them. It is encouraging to know they are not alone in this. As one Long Island resident said of RFI, “I can’t say enough about Gina and Vinny and their team. They inspire so many around them and give so much of themselves to anyone they can help. The work they do has such purpose, and in a world full of craziness, they are making it better!” We couldn’t agree more. Thank you, Rescuing Families, Inc., for all the great work you are doing!