Community Corner
Patch Picks: 5 Non-Profits Making a Difference
Looking to make a difference this year? Check out our list of some of Suffolk County's top nonprofits and do just that.
Looking to volunteer your time, or for a way to be inspired (or inspire others?) Take a look at five of our favorite local non-profits, see how they are making a difference in our communities, and perhaps make a difference yourself.
It began as a one woman operation back in 1992. Now, as the largest Hunger Relief organization on Long Island, Island Harvest has a big role to fill. And it does so, admirably, funneling 97 cents of every dollar directly to their programs. It has delivered more than 56 million pounds of food since its inception, to over 600 different Long Island food pantries.
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How to Get Involved: Volunteer to make a weekly or “on-call” food or supply run, plan a fundraiser, donate food, or help out in the office or warehouse. Though the organization is headquartered in Mineola, one of its two warehouses is in Holbrook.
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Since 1946, Smithtown’s Guide Dog Foundation has helped the World’s blind to a new sense of mobility and independence by providing them with their own personal guide dogs, free of charge. At a cost of over $50,000 to train each individual animal, the foundation places approximately 100 guide and service dogs each year. It is currently responsible for 600 dogs worldwide.
How to Get Involved: Make a financial contribution, offer to raise a puppy until it is old enough to begin training (between 12 and 14 months), volunteer at the kennel, help out during training sessions or in the office.
3. LONG ISLAND GAY AND LESBIAN YOUTH
Founded in 1993, LIGALY is Long Island’s premier support network for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) youth and young adults. It provides educational and health services, social programs and events, support groups (for both LGBT teens and their parents), and encourages each and every one of us – regardless of gender or sexual orientation –to be self-confident and empowered.
How to Get Involved: Intern or volunteer at the Bay Shore center, make a tax-deductable donation, or simply go to an event to show your support.
4. SUFFOLK COUNTY COALITION AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
The Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence is more than just a 24-hour hotline (although, it, of course provides that too). SCCADV operates a Safe Harbor shelter to provide safety for victims of domestic violence. The shelter, located in the Town of Islip, opened in 1983, was the first of its kind in Suffolk County. The SCCADV aims to restore peoples’ lives, and provide them with the encouragement necessary to break free of their abusive relationships. Services to children, teens, and the LGBTQ community are also a major part of the SCCADV’s focus.
Hotline Number: (631) 666-8833
How to Get Involved: Work a shift at the shelter, become a hotline counselor, or volunteer to raise awareness around the community.
Angela’s House seeks to assist families with medically fragile, chronically ill children or those who are living with a life threatening illness. Born from the struggle of Bob and Angie Policastro, who could not find adequate local facilities for their brain damaged daughter, Angela’s House was founded in 1992. It operates two Suffolk County houses with 24 hour nursing – one in East Moriches and the other in Smithtown.
How to Get Involved: Make a donation, fundraise, plan or match a gift, or go shopping at GoodShop.com.
