Advance keeps on giving at CPNJ annual dinner.

Cerebral Palsy of North Jersey's (CPNJ's) 2005 Steps to Independence Dinner honoring Peter J. Cocoziello, president and chief executive officer of Advance Realty Group, raised more than $200,000 for the agency.

The dinner, attended by more than 200 guests, was held November 16th at the Crystal Plaza in Livingston, N.J.

"CPNJ is a valuable asset to our community," said Cocoziello. "In the hectic world of business, it is easy to forget those things that should matter the most.

"Organizations like CPNJ and events like this dinner help us to reconnect with the values that make our society great."

Cocoziello surprised guests by announcing that his company's foundation was issuing a $25,000 challenge grant in support of CPNJ, in effect serving to double any gift made to the agency.

"Our intent is not only to support CPNJ with a gift, but to serve as a catalyst for giving at other organizations," Cocoziello explained.

The Steps to Independence Dinner is CPNJ's largest annual fundraising event.

All proceeds from the dinner will support the agency's work with more than 1,000 infants, children and adults with disabilities throughout northern New Jersey.

CPNJ's programs and services include: Horizon School and Horizon High School, which serve more than 130 children ages 3-21 with multiple disabilities; three adult day programs that serve over 150 individuals.