The Lindy community is much more than where our homes reside. As a coalition, holding community events like the 5th Annual Spirit of the Community Event helps build a local network where residents can connect and build relationships to grow membership in the many organizations within the village and hamlet of Lindenhurst and the Town of Babylon. Grand Knight Pat Corcoran discussed cultivating membership while informing of the great work of the Knights of Columbus. While many residents may see the value of participating later, a community event like this can benefit the volunteers and their neighbors. Honorable mention and Special thanks to long-time supporters of the growth of the coalition members to Pam Mizzi of the Long Island Prevention Resource Center and Dan Giordano, former Superintendent of the Lindenhurst Union Free School District.
Here are a few key reasons why community events are important:
Inspiration
While the coalition came together in 2013 to build a strong prevention organization, hearing from mothers who have dedicated their lives to helping others who may have a family member struggling with addiction fosters inspiration to learn something new. Connection with Founders from The Beat Lives On, and Copiague Community Cares Coalition inspires others to be creative and invest in their ideas. Our police partners work in the schools and with all the local groups while serving as role models for the Police Explorers. The Loyal Order of Moose, who host this event donated Tommy Moose dolls to the 1st. Precinct officers to assist when answering calls involving children. The Historical Society brings a sense of nostalgia as they strive to document and preserve the ever-evolving stories of our land and the people whose contributions help shape our lives.
Advocacy
Finding solutions for local problems together and advocating for policy that keeps everyone safe is the goal, as our guest speaker, Gerard Gigante, head of safety for the Town of Babylon, pledged to report on the various activities of the investigative division of the Town. Much of the great work of the volunteers in our neighborhood is possible with the support of governmental leadership. Our elected government officials form a protective bond, putting decision-making priorities in the people’s best interests and enforcing ordinances and laws that protect the general public.
Mental Health
The event is interactive and informative, but networking, sharing a meal, and interacting with others are great ways to combat mental health struggles and improve happiness. South Shore Theater Group and Lighthouse Theatre representatives presented ways that young and old can learn and appreciate the art of studio theatre, improve communication skills, and enjoy the wonderful experience of live performances.
Social Skills
Many people experience forms of social anxiety that make it challenging to communicate with others, but this welcoming group made it easy for all community stakeholders to take the stage. We found that we have a new pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church and celebrated the promotion of our School Resource Officer Kelly A. to Sergeant, and special thanks to our Moose leadership, Paul LaMartina, who is also promoted to representing the order statewide. Great performances emerged, and personalities shone brightly when the Rotary Club produced a skit highlighting their local and national work. The mayor’s beautification committee, whose work is enjoyed by all citizens throughout the year, connected many participants with new ways to enjoy the seasonal, well-thought-out campaigns that bring unique beauty all over the village. At the end of the evening, the project that was voted in to receive the funds collected at the door was, in fact, the Rotary for their style, grace, and dedication to service, which they promptly donated back. The proceeds from the evening are obligated to pay for the space, a donation to the Police Explorers, and seed money for next year’s gathering!
Paying it Forward!
Local organizations conduct events like clothing and food drives, donation banks, and other fundraising events, and the coalition makes it a priority to have fun while connecting organizations that give with organizations that serve those in need, such as Hope For Youth and Kids Need More. We heard from a resident and nurse who merged her professional and personal interests to the community by engaging with the coalition to share a skill-enhancing first aid training, “Stop The Bleed,” with all of our school district employees. This quickly organized training demonstrates the unique qualities a community coalition possesses in the ability to provide a rapid response to an emergent community need in real-time.
