FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Long Island Elite Selects Paws of War as 2023 Charity Partner
Nesconset, NY – February 2, 2023 – Long Island Elite, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to fostering the growth and development of local Long Island business professionals and emerging regional leaders, has announced they have selected Nesconset-based Paws of War as its 2023 charity partner.
Paws of War is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to train and place service animals and companion dogs to support and provide independence to U.S. military veterans that suffer from the emotional and physical effects of war. The non-profit also provides animal rescue for U.S. troops who have befriended an animal while serving overseas. The organization also serves as a community center where veterans and first responders come together daily to build bonds and support each other.
The funds raised by Long Island Elite in 2023 will give Paws of War additional resources to further its mission of “helping both ends of the leash” by providing services to veterans, first responders and their service or companion animals. These activities will support the mental wellbeing of individuals in Paws of War programs, giving back to the heroes who have sacrificed so much for this country. Having service or companion animals has proven to be an effective way to enhance mental wellbeing and reduce veteran suicides. LIE volunteers and funds raised will also assist in rescuing dogs and cats and pairing them with local heroes in the community.
“This partnership between Long Island Elite and Paws of War will enhance the lives of veterans and lead to numerous dogs find their forever homes. We will also raise awareness in our community about Paws of War’s important mission. Our members will see first-hand the challenges that veterans and first responders face, especially those experiencing the effects of PTSD and the positive impact dogs and cats will provide. As a U.S. Marine veteran, I personally understand the challenges and hardships that our veterans and first responders face every day,” said Frank Morizio, Jr, Long Island Elite President.
During the partnership year, members of Long Island Elite will volunteer their time at Paws of War’s events where they will learn more about the organization, including the cost of training service animals, the challenges and issues related to abandoned and mistreated animals, animal adoption and rescue and the importance of veterans and first responders gathering to share their stories, comradery and mutual support.
“Many veterans and first responders are struggling with PSTD and other mental health challenges. The support and funds that LIE will provide to us will go toward improving the lives of these heroes and at the same time, find homes for so many dogs that need them,” said Robert Misseri, co-founder of Paws of War.
For over 20 years, Long Island Elite members have supported many not-for-profits. The organization has raised over $1 million dollars for charities and charity partners, including United Cerebral Palsy, ACLD, SIBSPlace, The Safe Center LI, New Ground and Long Island Alzheimer’s & Dementia Center. LIE members’ efforts have positively impacted thousands of lives on Long Island.
For information on how to support the Long Island Elite and Paws of War, visit www.longislandelite.com, www.pawsofwar.org, or email info@longislandelite.com.
About Long Island Elite
Founded in 2002, we are a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of local business professionals, and emerging regional leaders. Our members are leaders in Long Island’s business and non-for-profit sectors who believe in the philosophy of standing together to support each other’s careers, and helping those who are less fortunate. Together, Long Island Elite leverages our members’ unique strengths to advance our mission of helping to lead the way in supporting charities and business. To learn more about Long Island Elite, visit https://www.longislandelite.com/.
About Paws of War
Paws of War is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides assistance and a wide range of programs to active, retired and disabled military members. To learn more about Paws of War and the programs provided or to make a donation, visit its site at: http://pawsofwar.org.