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In 1999, Meredith O'Neill, a school teacher in Harlem, encountered several families in need of assistance.
Secret Smiles was created by Meredith's imminent drive to help families in need - by providing basic necessities like furniture and household supplies.
Together with Kristy Irvine Ryan and Louise Rexer, Meredith made this compassionate vision a reality. Since 1999, Secret Smiles has helped more than 325
families in need.
A Brief Timeline:
- December, 1998 - Secret Smiles aids 1st family from a private donation
- January, 1999 - Secret Smiles receives 501C3 status, registered with federal government
- February,1999 - Secret Smiles 1st brochure mailed for fundraising efforts
- December, 1999 - 1st holiday "BIG give" to 18 families in the New York area
- December, 2000 - 2nd holiday "BIG give" to 22 families in the New York area
- September 11, 2001 - Kristy Irvine Ryan, VP of Secret Smiles dies in WTC Tragedy. Her husband, Brendan, carries on her role as Vice President.
- December, 2001 - 3rd holiday "BIG give" planned
- December 14th & 15th, 2001 - The Bogmen, Gordan Gano, The Knockout Drops, Jen Chapin & Stephan Crump and Brett Cohart played Secret Smiles benefit
concert at Irving Plaza.
- September, 23 2002 - First charity golf outing at Colonial Springs Golf Course.
- 2002 - Present: Secret Smiles' efforts are year-round. Please visit our events page to find out about upcoming fundraising events.
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