MERCY BALL
One of the many traditions at the ball is the Mercy Honor Guard, comprised of high school seniors who escort the Grand March of dignitaries into the ballroom. The tradition of the Honor Guard originated in 1942, when high school boys substituted for their older brothers, who went off to serve in World War II, who were members of the traditional military Honor Guard.
If interested in being an Honor Guard, a senior student must be nominated by a member of the Friends of Mercy organization.
Please contact a Friend of Mercy member and he will explain the process as well as give you paperwork to be submitted to the nominating committee. Application process opens in September of the current year.
The Mercy Ball provides us the opportunity to honor and support our community hospital. Additionally, we honor three distinguished individuals for their major contributions to the success of Mercy Hospital: Theodore Roosevelt Award for Outstanding Service, Sister Nadine Casey CIJ Award, & Bishop McGann Lifetime Achievement Award.
Save the Date
90th Annual Mercy Ball
Saturday, December 5, 2026
The Lannin
East Meadow, NY
Details to Follow
Other Events
The Friends raise funds for Mercy through the sponsorship of annual benefits.
- Mercy Luau – A favorite for many, celebrated at a fun outdoor beach venue
- Golf Classic – Held on a pristine golf course that offers a great day of golf and dinner
- Mercy Ball – Prestigious ball that has become the traditional kick-off for Long Island’s holiday social season
- Gentlemen’s St. Patrick’s Dinner – A festive evening of laughter, good cheer and fellowship while eating corn beef & cabbage and listening to Irish music. A great Friends tradition!
- 9 & Dine Golf – Start the golf season with 9 holes of golf, cocktails and dinner
PROCEEDS & SUPPORT
Proceeds 2026
Proceeds this year will support a new modern Retail Pharmacy at Mercy Hospital. This patient-focused pharmacy will supply all patient medications both during their stay and as they return home, prescriptions for Mercy employees, as well as expand capacity to improve operational efficiency and outpatient services. Your generosity will help bring this vital project to life and ensure Mercy Hospital continues to meet the growing healthcare needs of our community.
