'It comes from the heart'

Ken Jacobsen may not live in Seaford, but he spends so much time in the community that it certainly feels like he does. 

Jacobsen lives in nearby North Massapequa, but Seaford has become his second home. His volunteer work in the community earned him Citizen of the Year honors from American Legion Post 1132, which recognized Jacobsen at its annual awards night on April 20. 

“This award, I had no clue whatsoever that I would even be nominated,” he said. “I’m not looking for an award for the work I do.”

Jacobsen is an independent financial adviser and has been working in Seaford since 2007, after a 30-year career on Wall Street. He was formerly affiliated with Edward Jones, and now has his own business with LPL Financial, on the second floor of the Seaford Library building. 

“I had an opportunity in Seaford, so I took it,” he said of his decision to go into business for himself nine years ago. “The five-minute commute was very enticing.”

Jacobsen immediately became involved with the Seaford Chamber of Commerce, and within two years was its president. He held that post for four years and is its current vice president.

He joined for the networking opportunities, as he was new in town and looking to grow his business. “That became the stepping stone for my involvement in the community,” he said. “I wanted to give back and wanted to be involved. I’ve probably worked with every organization in the community.”

Jacobsen has volunteered with the Seaford Wellness Council for the annual cleanup of the Tackapausha Preserve. He has contributed to the Seaford Historical Society’s annual Harvest Fair and raised funds through the Chamber to support the local PTAs. 

In 2012, after Hurricane Sandy hit, Jacobsen collected money and clothing for families affected by the storm. He then became the co-chairman of the Seaford/Wantagh Community Reconstruction Program committee, a division of New York Rising to build resiliency.