Ballsfest to Bounce Into New Jersey with Afternoon Fundraiser at Bell Works

High-energy event to raise money for unforgettable experiences for ‘Ballers,’ several young cancer patients in Holmdel

Holmdel, N.J. – Ballsfest will bounce into New Jersey with its first fundraiser from 2 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22 at Bell Works in Holmdel. The uplifting nonprofit, founded by testicular cancer survivor and former Holmdel resident, Frank DeBlasi, raises money to provide unforgettable experiences for young cancer patients, who are affectionately called “Ballers.”

Emceed by local personality, Heather Sperduto, Ballsfest will treat guests to an afternoon of food, entertainment and various fundraising opportunities. “This isn’t your typical fundraising gala,” said DeBlasi. “Everything about Ballsfest is uplifting and whimsical; and this event reflects that spirit.” Ballsfest brings 12 successful years of development and growth through fundraisers in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., Scottsdale, Ariz. and Las Vegas to its inaugural New Jersey event. 

The expansion to New Jersey will raise money for the inaugural class of New Jersey “Ballers.” Through a relationship with local resource and treatment center, the Hackensack Meridian Health K. Hovanian Children’s Hospital, five New Jersey Ballers have been selected. They include: five-year-old Anastasia Kelesidis from Ocean Township, N.J., six-year-old Chloe Alicia from Jackson Township, N.J., nine-year-old Alexander Salazar Gomez from Long Branch, N.J., 15-year-old Jovani Moreno from Lakewood, N.J., and 16-year-old Justin Marcario from Allentown, N.J. More information about the Ballers is available on the website. 

Tickets may be purchased online, with individual tickets starting at $50. A full breakdown of sponsorship opportunities, priced between $2,000 and $5,000, is also available online. 

Additional information about Ballsfest New Jersey is available online at www.ballsfest.org.

About Ballsfest

Organizers and supporters of Ballsfest provide unforgettable experiences for those facing obstacles with cancer. The term, "Ballsfest,” was created by Frank DeBlasi, a testicular cancer survivor and keen supporter of children living with cancer. The term is a play on words, and one that reflects DeBlasi's positive spirit during his own battle. Combining his love for the upstate New York area and the Dave Matthews Band, DeBlasi first hosted a small gathering for friends and concert goers on the grounds of Saratoga State Park in 2007. This initial gathering began a stream of annual events that has grown dramatically in size over the years, and proceeds raised at these events have benefitted a national cancer foundation. In 2013, DeBlasi shifted the focus of Ballsfest in support of children affected by cancer. Since then, Ballsfest has honored and celebrated numerous children in Upstate New York, Alabama, Arizona, New Jersey and Las Vegas. Ballsfest produces signature annual fundraising events, as well as solicits grants and contributions year-round from individuals, private foundations and others, for the purpose of supporting young cancer patients who are facing difficult challenges.