Members of the Schoemaker Classic Advisory Board are steadfast supporters of Melmark, a not-for-profit organization serving children and adults diagnosed with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities. Melmark's Pennsylvania service division, located in Berwyn, has taken a significant unexpected financial costs amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. With other service divisions in Andover, Massachusetts and Charlotte, North Carolina, the organization has incurred more than $5 million in unplanned expenses and income losses since mid-March 2020. The losses and extra expenses are due to day program closures, the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE), hero pay for those employees working with a positive case of the virus, increased sanitizing measures, the purchase of technological equipment for remote learning, and reconfiguring program work spaces to ensure optimal virus mitigation.

Melmark President and CEO, Rita M. Gardner, M.P.H., LABA, BCBA says the Schoemaker Classic Advisory Board's unwavering support could not come at a better time. "This has been a challenging time for all not-for-profit human service organizations especially those providing care in-person, and on the front line of special education and congregate care services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic," said Gardner. "The pandemic has created new obstacles in an already underfunded field, and the support of our donor community is needed now more than ever," she added. "This incredible group of leaders in the life sciences industry have their own COVID-19-related battles to fight, yet they are stepping up again for the 16^th anniversary of this event, and I am in awe of what they are able to accomplish year after year. We are beyond grateful for their ongoing support. Every year, the Classic Advisory Committee carries on Hubert Schoemaker's rich legacy of improving so many lives "

Schoemaker Classic Advisory Board Co-Chair, Rich Decker, speaks of the importance of this event. "It is integral that we continue Hubert Schoemaker's work to help ensure ongoing strength and vitality for Melmark's services." Decker is partner of Simkiss and Block. He explains why he and his peers on the advisory board remain steadfast in their dedication to this event. "The programs at Melmark depend a great deal on fundraised dollars, and I cannot think of a better way for the life sciences industry to pull together during this unique time in all of our lives. Hubert Schoemaker improved millions of lives. Not just through his work and contributions to the biotechnology industry, but as a philanthropist. We are grateful for the opportunity to support such a meaningful mission."