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Community Corner

Smithtown's Ed Powers New President of Marty Lyons Foundation

Ed Powers of Smithtown is new president of The Marty Lyons Foundation, founded by Former New York Jets Star Marty Lyons, also of Smithtown.

Smithtown, NY, September 14, 2018 – Marty Lyons of Smithtown, Founder/CEO of the Marty Lyons Foundation (MLF) based in Commack, has announced Ed Powers of Smithtown as its new President of the Foundation. A longtime supporter of the Foundation, Mr. Powers is the Vice President of Sales & Relationship Management at Fidelity Information Services, Inc. in Kings Park. Founded by Former New York Jets Star Marty Lyons, The Marty Lyons Foundation grants special wishes to children diagnosed with life threatening or terminal illnesses, and in special circumstances, grants second wishes.

“As President, I am excited to build on the many achievements and legacy of the Foundation’s board and volunteers. My early goals are to raise money to fund more first and second wishes, increase recurring monthly donations, and evangelize the Foundation’s mission nationwide,” said Mr. Powers.

“Ed has been an asset and friend to the Foundation for many years. He has served as a board member and member of several committees. He has personally hosted successful fundraising events and it is clear that he understands the mission and purpose of the Foundation. Ed is an individual with character and someone we can count on as we move forward. On behalf of the board and our entire team at the Foundation, we welcome Ed to his new position and look forward to working with him,” said Mr. Lyons.

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“Changing a child’s life just for one moment, a day or one week demonstrates to them that they are not alone in this struggle. We are committed to creating memories for families and being part of their lives not only when they receive a wish, but they now become part of the Foundations family,” added Mr. Powers.

Mr. Powers’ community volunteer activities include: Long Island Fight for Charity, Smithtown Children’s Foundation and Lighthouse Mission.

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Mr. Lyons’ determination led to the establishment of the Marty Lyons Foundation after his own personal experiences with sickness and the deaths of people close to him. With the encouragement and support of his family and friends, the Foundation was formed in 1982. Its mission is to grant special wishes to children diagnosed with life threatening or terminal illnesses and in special circumstances certain children are granted a second wish. Over the past 36 years, the 501(c)3 organization has worked to keep hope alive in the hearts of thousands of children and has provided support for their families.

The Marty Lyons Foundation has grown to 10 Chapters in 12 states – Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia – and has granted over 7,400 wishes, brightening the lives of countless children.

For information about how to support or volunteer for the Marty Lyons Foundation or learn more about wishes, visit www.martylyonsfoundation.org or call (631) 543-9474.

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PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured from left to right is Ed Powers of Smithtown, who was recently named new President of the Marty Lyons Foundation, a non-profit based in Commack that grants special wishes to children diagnosed with life threatening or terminal illnesses and in special circumstances also grants second wishes, standing with Former New York Jets Star Marty Lyons of Smithtown, Founder/CEO of the Marty Lyons Foundation (MLF).

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