Town Honors Massapequa Resident For Helping Children

MASSAPEQUA, NY — Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board honored Massapequa resident Mark Leff, executive director of Companions in Courage.

Founded by NHL Hall of Famer, Pat LaFontaine in 1997, Companions in Courage is there to give courage, friendship, compassion and support to children and their families who are overcoming illness and life-threatening obstacles.

Because of Leff's work, several initiatives have come to fruition for Companions in Courage, one being "Santa Connection" in 2007. Since its launch, hundreds of children in Companions in Courage-supported hospitals have been delighted to receive personal video conference visits from Santa, helping to make their holiday seasons merry and bright.

Leff has also been the event director for the "Runners Edge Main Street Mile," where more than 500 participants come out every Labor Day weekend to take part in a 1-mile run and post-race fundraiser that has raised over $200,000 for Companions in Courage.

"It is our distinct pleasure to recognize Mark Leff for making a positive difference in the lives of others and greatly advancing the general welfare of the community," said Saladino. "Mark's selfless efforts in community service truly abide by the mission of Companions in Courage; 'No child in the fight for life or health should ever have to go through it alone.'"