Brookhaven residents saw Town Supervisor Daniel J. Panico and New York State Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio at a charitable Topgolf event on Sunday, November 8, as the organization Navigating the Journey, Ltd. hosted its fourth annual “Driving Home Recovery” fundraiser in Holtsville. The gathering aimed to raise money and awareness for individuals and families affected by substance use and addiction, a concern that touches many households across the town.
According to TBR News Media, the event brought together community members, local supporters, and sponsors for a morning of friendly competition, a breakfast buffet, raffle baskets, and sponsorship opportunities. Attendees enjoyed the Topgolf setting while contributing to a cause that provides transportation, peer support, and other recovery resources to those seeking healthier futures.
Navigating the Journey was founded by News 12 reporter Ed Sweeting and his wife Karen after the tragic loss of their young daughter. The Sweetings have turned that personal tragedy into a mission to help Long Island residents access treatment, connect with peer support, and find the resources needed to navigate recovery, the outlet reported.
Supervisor Panico praised the organization’s work, saying, “Ed and Karen have turned an unimaginable personal loss into a mission to help others who are struggling with addiction. Their dedication to connecting people with treatment, support and hope is making a meaningful difference in our community. I was proud to join them and everyone who came out to support this important cause.”
The fundraiser’s proceeds will support Navigating the Journey’s ongoing programs, including transportation to treatment facilities, peer‑to‑peer support groups, and other recovery‑related services. Panico thanked Ed and Karen Sweeting, the event’s sponsors, donors, volunteers, and attendees for their generosity, emphasizing the collective effort required to address addiction challenges in Brookhaven and the surrounding region.
While no specific future event dates were announced in the coverage, the success of this fourth annual fundraiser suggests that the organization will continue to host similar community‑focused gatherings to sustain its vital services.
Sources: tbrnewsmedia.com
