Featured Causes

Be the Spark is proud to present these featured causes. Remember, no amount is too small to make a difference. Don’t forget, your opinion matters! So if you have a local cause, project or family that you’re passionate about, please bring it to our attention so we can feature them! Be the Spark!

Response of Suffolk County’s mission is to provide callers in crisis or in need of support with unconditional acceptance, compassion, and respect in order to lower anxiety and facilitate their innate coping skills; To help callers capitalize on their strengths in the prevention of self destructive behaviors or suicide; To provide referrals and information about community programs and resources; To heighten public awareness of suicide prevention through community education, outreach and training.

Backpacks For Fellow Students a 501(c)(3) was created in 2012 by now 15-year-old Westhampton Beach High School Student, Ariana DeMattei. BFFS provides community elementary school students in need a brand new backpack filled with all their required school supplies at the start off the school year. The goal is to create a level playing field in the classroom no matter what the socio-economic status is, and maximize a child’s opportunity for educational success. The hope is that with early intervention we can impact the lives of children by developing lifelong learners and ultimately contributing members to the community. By the end of 2016, BFFS will have donated over 1000 backpacks to East End Elementary School Students.