Schlaffs honored by Five Towns Community Chest

Former president and chairman of the Five Towns Community Chest and the mayor of Woodsburgh, respectively, Steven and Susan Schlaff, were honored at the Neighbors in Needs Concert last Thursday for their consistent involvement with the Woodmere-based organization’s events.

The Schlaffs moved to the Five Towns in 1984 and have been involved in numerous Community Chest events such as the golf and tennis tournaments as well as several dinners. Steven said he views the organization as a viable umbrella organization for the community, meaning that money is donated where it is needed.

“They (Five Towns Community Chest) sees where they money is best used, not to say they don’t give to major charities but the lesser agencies that don’t receive as much money need to be taken care of,” Steven said. “With the economy the way it is, charities are having problems raising money but the Five Towns Community Chest can provide funding better than other organizations to get money where it is actually needed.”

Eric Keslowitz, chairman of the Board of the Five Towns Community Chest, said the money raised at the concert, which was held at the Woodmere Club, will be put towards the Families in Need Program.

“Agencies review clients and ask if they have families that are having financial difficulties this holiday season,” he said. “Last year we gave $250 to 30 families so this year we would like to donate well over the amounts given in the previous year.”

Susan, who has been mayor of Woodsburgh for 16 years, and Steven are happy to do anything to promote the Five Towns Community Chest. “We’re thrilled to be honored and do whatever we can for the organization,” Steven said. “We’re glad to do our best to help the community chest in getting their goals accomplished.”