A Night of Giving: Macen’s Way Foundation Donates $500K to Pediatric Intensive Care
March 22, 2025 — The Macen’s Way Foundation proudly joined the Joseph Maffeo Foundation at the 19th Annual Casino Night for an evening filled with purpose, unity, and generosity.
The Joseph Maffeo Foundation held a Casino Night at Nicotra’s Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn on March 22, 2025. Pictured are the founders and family of Macen’s Way. (Steve White for the Staten Island Advance) Steve White for the Staten Island Advance
A $500,000 Commitment to Care
At the heart of the evening was a powerful announcement:
Macen’s Way Foundation pledged $500,000 toward the creation of the Macen Husic Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) — a dedicated space for children and families in critical need.
This gift goes far beyond funding. It’s a promise. A message to every parent walking through the hospital doors that hope lives here.
“Macen’s Way is about turning grief into grace. This unit will bring hope to families right when they need it most,” shared the foundation.
The Macen Husic PICU will provide lifesaving care, state-of-the-art technology, and compassionate support — all in honor of Macen, whose spirit continues to change lives.
The Joseph Maffeo Foundation held a Casino Night at Nicotra’s Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn on March 22, 2025. Pictured is Macen’s Way’s $500,000 commitment. (Steve White for the Staten Island Advance) Steve White for the Staten Island Advance
Casino Night 2025: A Community That Shows Up
Held at Nicotra’s Ballroom in Staten Island, Casino Night welcomed more than 550 guests dressed in their finest. With casino tables, gourmet bites, music, and heartfelt speeches, the event was a celebration of giving — and of the community’s commitment to care.
The Joseph Maffeo Foundation held a Casino Night at Nicotra’s Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn on March 22, 2025. (Steve White for the Staten Island Advance) Steve White for the Staten Island Advance
Future Impact
The new PICU will serve thousands of families in the years to come — from premature infants to children facing life-threatening conditions.
In the most uncertain moments of a child’s life, this unit will offer certainty: expert care, comfort, and compassion.
It’s Macen’s legacy — and it’s just the beginning.
What’s Next for Macen’s Way
This milestone donation is only one chapter in a much larger mission. Upcoming initiatives include:
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New community-based support programs
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Partnerships with local schools and hospitals
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Annual events that bring families together and raise awareness
The Joseph Maffeo Foundation held a Casino Night at Nicotra’s Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn on March 22, 2025. Pictured are the founders and family of Macen’s Way, father Blerim Husic (right), mother Vildana Husic (center), and co-founder Milazim Durakovic (left). (Steve White for the Staten Island Advance) Steve White for the Staten Island Advance
Join The Mission
Want to walk in Macen’s Way with us?
➡️ Donate to Macen’s Way Foundation
➡️ Follow us on Instagram
➡️ Volunteer or Get Involved
Together, we’re building a brighter future — one child, one family, and one act of love at a time.
