Clowning for a Cause

You've seen Long Island veterans overjoyed after a lively performance by former American Idol finalist and Levittown native Kevin Covais. You've seen our country's heroes cheering for chocolate at a tasting demonstration.

But who is the woman behind all the fun?

Her name is Carol Klein and she is, in fact, much more than just a woman. She is a teacher's assistant to special education students, a mother and grandmother, a Levittown resident, and--here's the kicker--a professional clown.

In her spare time, Klein doubles as MisMatch the Magical Clown. Dressed in patchy overalls and armed with balloons and magic tricks, she brings smiles to children's faces at birthday parties and other events alongside her son, Garrett Klein, 29, known in the clowning world as YooHoo.

When MisMatch and YoHoo were hired to entertain veterans at the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center's annual winter festival two years ago, they were blown away by the positive response they received.

"We met some of the veterans, and they were thrilled," Carol said. "I had always known I needed to do something more to pay back and help others, and it all just came full circle."

And so the Kleins started Our Heroes Night Out, an organization that gives back to the men who have served our country by bringing them cheer and entertainment.

Sometimes the veterans who live at the Northport Salvation Army facility are transported in buses to theaters, bowling alleys, amusement parks, restaurants and other recreational spots around Long Island that are willing to help out.

In July 2009, the Milleridge Inn Restaurant in Jericho was the first venue to host an Our Heroes Night Out event, welcoming the veterans to an elegant meal.

When the men are not being treated for a night out on the town, Carol brings entertainment to them, whether it's in the form of food, comedy, music or any other gift someone cares enough to give.

"Whoever would like to come and help us, even just bring lunch, nothing is ever too big or too small," she said. "We're just looking for people who want to share something with these men."

Carol says many businesses and individuals have seen the value in her cause and agreed to provide their services, but she is looking to make the organization even bigger.

Center Lane Pizza, at 5 Center Lane in Levittown, helped out with a fundraiser, donating half of the money they earned one day to the organization.

"You get to meet so many great people," Carol said of her work with Our Heroes Night Out. "It's amazing how much they thank me every time I come. We've got to keep doing it, they just appreciate it so much."

Anyone who would like to help in any way can contact Carol at 516-579-6524 or mklein694@aol.com.