Maura Nicolosi is the owner of The Nicolosi Law Firm, P.C., in Manhasset, New York, and a member of The Child Center of NY’s Golf Committee. In the following Q&A, Nicolosi discusses how she was introduced to The Child Center, why she stays involved—and why it’s so easy for her to convince others to do the same.
The Child Center of NY: How did you first become involved with The Child Center?
Maura Nicolosi: I was invited by a business acquaintance to a Child Center golf outing about eight years ago and have been supporting the agency ever since. Having spent most of my life in Queens, the fact that the organization is Queens based and directly serves the community makes a lot of sense to me. As my interest in the agency grew, I began to attend the annual gala, bringing friends and family—also all from Queens—to the event.
CCNY: Do you want to share any memorable moments from those events?
MN: I am always amazed at how many people I run into at events who are not directly related to the organization. I think the service and message of The Child Center speak to so many people because of the work you do and the direct impact it has on the community. It makes sense, and it is hard to resist, especially after hearing the stories of the speakers—clients who have benefited from The Child Center, telling their own stories in their own words—at both the gala and golf outing.
CCNY: We hear that not only are you a supporter, but that you have a knack for bringing in new supporters. How do you do it?
MN: Enthusiasm goes a long way, and once I invite a guest, that person becomes interested and wants to help in some way. I have been able to bring in guests, and also volunteers. Everyone has something to give, whether it is time, money, or talent. We are fortunate in our lives, and how can you say no to these children?
CCNY: Is there anything you’d like to add?
MN: When you hear the success stories, or even stories in progress, it brings home the fact that these people and children live in our communities. It’s not an abstract idea about kids in another state or country; they are right here and but for the grace of God, could have been us. If they don’t have the support or resources or encouragement at home, then the community has to step in, and that is what The Child Center is doing—so we as community members have to step in and support The Child Center.
