Furniture Industry Raises $130,000 at GMFA/DMCCF Event
Furniture World News Desk on
6/24/2026
Hamburg, NJ – The annual GMFA/Dean Michael Clarizio Cancer Foundation (DMCCF) Golf and Dinner Event took place at Crystal Springs Golf Resort, bringing together members of the furniture industry to support families confronting cancer. The event raised nearly $130,000 for the foundation’s programs.
The evening included the presentation of the Simon Kaplan Distinguished Leadership Award to Christopher De Lisa, President of Lineage Collections. The award was presented by his son, Mateo De Lisa, also of Lineage Collections.
The Simon Kaplan Distinguished Leadership Award honors the legacy of Simon Kaplan, known for his work with Crest Furniture and Value City Furniture of New Jersey. Christopher De Lisa joined previous recipients recognized for their contributions to the industry.
The event also acknowledged two sales professionals, Larry Tennen and Frank Arroyo, who were recognized upon their retirements from careers in the furniture sector.
Attendees paid tribute to Alan Granetz, former Director of the GMFA, who passed away in December. His contributions and commitment to the association were remembered during the event.
Throughout the day, participants representing retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, and family members attended the event at Crystal Springs Resort. Weather conditions were favorable for both the golf tournament and evening program.
During the evening, four individuals referred to as cancer “Heroes” each received $5,000 grants from the Dean Michael Clarizio Cancer Foundation to support their ongoing needs.
Since its founding, the DMCCF has provided direct support to 658 individuals living with cancer, assisting with medical expenses and related needs. The event’s fundraising and ongoing contributions from the furniture industry enable this continued support.
Chris Clarizio, DMCCF President, said, “The true success of this event is measured not only by the funds raised, but by the message it sends to families in need—that they are not alone in their fight.”
About GMFA
GMFA is a not-for-profit organization formed to promote and protect the interests of home furnishings retailers, representatives, designers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and industry suppliers in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. GMFA sponsors networking, social, and educational events and provides member services such as health insurance and business discounts. Event proceeds are donated to the Dean Michael Clarizio Cancer Foundation to help children and families pay for cancer-related expenses. Contact Tony Bellarosa, Executive Director of GMFA, at 201-400-8286 or [email protected] for more information.
About DMCCF
The Dean Michael Clarizio Cancer Foundation was founded by its namesake, Dean, during his battle with cancer in 2005. The 501(c)3 non-profit foundation operated by Dean’s family and friends carries out his vision: helping others who face the challenges of cancer with financial, spiritual, and emotional support. Given the changing times and rising healthcare costs, there is an astounding number of cancer patients in need of financial assistance. To help families in need mitigate these costs, the DMCCF hosts multiple annual fundraising events, with 100 percent of the proceeds going directly to individuals and families. For more information, visit www.thedmccf.org.