On Saturday, September 20th, music, friendship, and generosity came together in an unforgettable way at Backyard Live, an annual event hosted by the Giuffrida family. What began more than five years ago as a fun gathering in their backyard with friends has blossomed into a full-fledged community tradition, raising thousands of dollars in support of NEOPAT’s mission to serve veterans and military families.
This year’s Backyard Live was the best yet, with more than 150 people in attendance. Guests filled the Giuffridas’ backyard to enjoy great company, delicious food and drinks, and plenty of games and activities that made the day both lively and meaningful. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and celebration, fueled by a shared commitment to helping those who have served our country.
Of course, no Backyard Live would be complete without live music, and this year featured an incredible lineup of original bands. The Esteems, Katy Guillen and The Drive, and Angela Perley brought high energy to close out the night. “It was so cool to raise money to help military families while we all had fun listening to bands, dancing, and shooting Nerf guns for prizes. It made me happy and proud to help setup the event because my grandpa, who I never got to meet, was in the military”, said 9 year-old Paige Giuffrida.
Thanks to the generosity of attendees and supporters, Backyard Live 2025 raised over $6,000 for NEOPAT. These funds will directly support the organization’s emergency assistance programs, which help veterans and military families with essential needs like housing, food, utilities, and transportation. Beyond the dollars raised, the event also spread awareness about the challenges many military families face and the importance of community stepping up to support them.
For the Giuffrida family, Backyard Live is about more than music and fun—it’s about purpose. What started as an idea to “give back while having fun with friends” has grown into something that unites neighbors, builds new connections, and this year created a lasting impact for veterans across Northeast Ohio. Each year, the event grows stronger, a reflection of the Giuffridas’ generosity and the community’s passion for supporting those who serve. Backyard Live is proof that you don’t need a concert hall or a stadium to make a difference—you just need good people, good music, and a backyard with room for both.
