Joseph Toles: Long Islander of the Week

Joseph Toles, the director of guidance for the HHH school district was recognized at the BOE meeting Monday night for his achievements with foster care children in the district.

Superintendent Sheldon Karnilow, when introducing Toles at the meeting, said: "A few years ago I interviewed a man for a guidance counselor position in the school district. I was deeply touched because this was a gentleman with incredible heart and soul. He sounded too good to be true. But you know what? He was in fact the real deal. He is a unique man who gives back to the community and advocates for children on their behalf."

Toles spent his entire childhood in the NYS foster care system and it's important to him to pay it forward.

He created his foundation, the Joseph Toles Foundation, five years ago.

"We try to raise money for these children so they can go to summer camp, as well as do other things," Toles said. "This year the children will go to Camp Mariah from August 22 through the 28th. We have partnered with the Fresh Air Fund."

They are having their first golf classic on Monday, May 9 at the Stonebridge Golf Links and Country Club in Smithtown. 

People can also donate on the foundation's website. 

"I'm going to continue to do what I do until I can't," Toles said.