He gave without ever being asked

The Valley Stream Civilian Patrol recently recognized a member of the community who has financially supported the volunteer organization for more than a decade. Larry Singer, who will turn 95 in April, was honored at the Civilian Patrol’s luncheon last Sunday at the Hendrickson Park administration building.

Singer, who lived in Valley Stream for 20 years before moving to the Bristal Assisted Living Center, has steadily donated to the Civilian Patrol. Volunteers from the organization drive around the community and report any suspicious activity to Nassau County police. In addition to giving their time, members also use their own vehicles.

Civilian Patrol President Ralph Polverino said the organization’s expenses are minimal, but contributions from the community help a great deal. Volunteers get a small gas reimbursement each month. Money also is used to purchase signs for the vehicles and for a pair of annual parties to recognize the volunteer members.

Polverino said that the organization receives a few thousand dollars each year from the state, secured through Sen. Dean Skelos. The Civilian Patrol does not solicit donations from the community, but several businesses and individuals do make voluntary contributions. “He’s one of them,” Polverino said of Singer. “He’s been very, very generous.”

Holly Minott, Singer’s daughter, said her father appreciates the efforts of the Civilian Patrol and that is why he chooses to donate to the organization. She estimates that he has made an annual contribution for at least 15 years.

Minott said that Singer always believed in helping the community and noted that he was a civic association leader when he lived in Jericho. When he moved to Valley Stream, he decided to donate to the Civilian Patrol as his way of giving back.

Minott, too, values having the volunteer watchdog organization in the community. “I think it’s effective,” Minott said. “As a person who lives in Valley Stream, I feel very good every time I see one of their cars go by.”

George Catalanotto, the Civilian Patrol’s treasurer, thanked Singer for his many contributions over the years and said it shows that residents appreciate the efforts of the volunteers. “It’s the support of citizens like Larry,” Catalanotto said, “that helps keep the Civilian Patrol members involved and motivated.”