Patch Picks: Non Profits Making a Difference

Last week, we told you where to go for Valentine's Day, This week, Patch Picks takes a look at where you can find Massapequa's kind heart.

 Our area is strengthened by the presence of a number of strong non profit organizations. They help your family, you neighbors and your children and through hard work and caring, they make the Massapequas a better place to live. But they also need your help. Volunteer work and funding are critical to a non profit's survival.  Here's a look at five noteworthy ones in the area.

 This organization has been serving the Massapequa area on numerous fronts for more than 30 years. Located at 75 Grand Avenue, YES offers services for those who have drug and alcohol problems. They deal with family issues such as domestic violence and divorce. They work with schools and other organizations about social issues. In short, they do it all.

 This organization is the "eyes and ears" of the 423 acre Massapequa Preserve.  Members of this organization work in conjunction with Nassau County, which runs the preserve to protect the area's natural beauty. They also promote educational awareness about the preserve and work with local organizations to advocate for it. Those interested in becoming a member can fill out an application on the organization's website.

 The Massapequa Coast Little League has been an institution in the area since 1955. It has baseball and softball programs for children who live south of Sunrise Highway  beginning at age 5.  It's run by a league board, and seeks volunteers to coach. The league raises money through sponsorships and snack stand sales at Burns Park.

 Located at 544 Broadway, and named for our 26th president, the Theodore Roosevelt Council is the Nassau County Headquarters for the Boy Scouts of America. The Council is broken up into four districts , including the Pequott District, which serves Massapequa and Massapequa Park and the Rough Rider District, which serves North Massapequa. The council does local fundraising and relies greatly on volunteer work.

Massapequa Kiwanis Club Founded in 1949, the Massapequa Kiwanis Club, is dedicated to providing community service, with an emphasis on youth. They hold regular meetings, and sponsor Key Clubs and Builders clubs at several local high schools and middle schools.