From the Dakes to dumpster diving, Kelly's Angels was a night to remember

Mark Mulholland's beloved nonprofit breaks records as it brings smiles to local kids touched by cancer or life-threatening illness.

Kelly’s Angels founder Mark Mulholland with a young friend

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Channel 13’s Mark Mulholland seemingly never stopped smiling this weekend — from his uber-successful “Calling All Angels” gala Saturday night celebrating his beloved nonprofit’s 15 years, to dumpster diving the next morning.

Kelly’s Angels helps Capital Region children who have lost a parent or sibling or are themselves battling cancer or a life-threatening illness.

Kelly's Angels is named after Mulholland's late wife, Kelly, a teacher whose two children gave emotional tributes in a fit-for-TV video Saturday night.

“Saturday was far better than I could have ever expected,” Mulholland says. “We called all angels and they showed up in droves to help make sure we’re here to help when more kids and families need a lift.”

The crowd of more than 450 raised $130,000, a record for the nonprofit. The Dake family were the honorary guests.

”What began with a small gathering of dear friends in my family room in Wilton, has now provided more than $750,000 and counting in grants and scholarships to area children and their families,” Mulholland says. “I’m proud of our board and volunteers, proud of our work, and grateful to the angels who answered the call Saturday night.”

“My personal favorite,” quips Mulholland of his Sunday morning dumpster dive for mistakenly-tossed gift cards that were a thank you for board members. “A post-gala dumpster has all the things you’d expect.”

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