Micro-philanthropy to benefit local nonprofits

Funds were presented to leaders of the agencies by local resident Frank Pomata in memory of his late mother, Palma A. Pomata, on Wednesday, Sept. 15, in the Lobby of the Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts.

The agencies to receive these unrestricted funds include: ERASE Racism, the Long Island Volunteer Center, and WSHU Public Radio.

“My parents both taught me the importance of giving back; whether it be through time, talent or treasure. When my mother passed away in January, I resolved to donate a portion of the funds she left to me to support local nonprofits whose mission resonated with my own values,” Pomata said of his donation.

Pomata, who spent much of his career working in the nonprofit/human services sector, knows that each and every dollar donated to these groups makes a difference.

“My hope is that these donations by me and the NYCB Foundation will showcase the important work being done by all three of these groups and spur other individuals and companies to lend their support,” he added.

The NYCB Foundation graciously matched the donations and doubled the amount of their contribution to $1,000 to each charity.