With great sadness and a heavy heart, we announce the passing of our dear friend and esteemed Advisory Board member, Marcia Besserman, on March 24, 2024.

Marcia's dedication to KiDS NEED MoRE from the very beginning was unwavering. She truly understood the heart of our mission and tirelessly advocated for us throughout the community and county. Her networking secured crucial contributions from local governments, chambers, and civic organizations. Marcia was the first to champion our cause, spreading the word about our special program and organization. She was a fierce advocate, always fighting for those she cared about, and she wasn't afraid to stand up for what she believed in, even if it meant a healthy debate!

To me personally, Marcia was a mentor, a supporter, and a friend. Especially when I was starting out at the Copiague Chamber of Commerce, Marcia held my hand, introduced me to people, and ensured I had a seat at the table and my voice was heard. Sometimes, her way of helping was by challenging my ideas and working through problems together.

A sweet memory is we would sit together at community events, and I would have lil Fuzz with me, and she would argue with the puppet!

Marcia loved her KiDS NEED MoRE family and rarely missed a board meeting. She always brought a positive spirit, injecting laughter and ensuring we didn't take ourselves too seriously, while still understanding the importance of our work.

One of her proudest moments was being part of the "Three Cheers for Us, Bus 3" team on our HoLiDAY CHEER BUS! She was a dedicated elf and cherished her fellow team members.

A funeral service will be held for Marcia on Tuesday, March 26 at 2pm at the Star of David Memorial Chapel, 1236 Wellwood Ave in West Babylon, with burial immediately following at the New Montefiore Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, her family has requested donations be made in Marcia's name to KiDS NEED MoRE.

Marcia's spirit of dedication, passion, and unwavering support will forever be a part of the KiDS NEED MoRE family. We will miss her dearly. As we move forward, let us continue to honor her memory by carrying the torch for the causes she championed so passionately. Let her legacy inspire us to make an even greater difference in the lives of the children we serve.

In Loving Memory,

Melissa & the KiDS NEED MoRE Family

In Loving Memory of Marcia Besserman