WJCS Gala to Honor Meira Fleisch and Stephanie Marquesano for Transformative Community Work in Westchester

Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS) is set to celebrate its annual gala on April 16 at the Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, New York, shining a spotlight on two distinguished honorees: Meira Fleisch and Stephanie Marquesano. Their contributions have significantly impacted children, youth, and families in the Westchester community, according to WJCS CEO Seth Diamond.

Trailblazers in Community Service

Meira Fleisch has dedicated over eight years to the WJCS Board, previously contributing as an early learning specialist through the organization's ParentChild+ program. Her efforts have been pivotal in enhancing parent/toddler interactions, boosting language skills, and preparing children for school success. Fleisch's service extends beyond WJCS, having held a vice chair position within the UJA-Federation of New York's Westchester Women's Cabinet for more than 15 years. Highlighting her connection to the mission, Fleisch, whose parents were Holocaust survivors, expressed her deep appreciation for WJCS's work amidst rising antisemitism threats.

Stephanie Marquesano founded the harris project following her son Harris's tragic overdose death in 2013, aiming to address the complex challenges of co-occurring mental health and substance-use disorders. The organization is the only one of its kind, advocating for an integrated system of care that spans prevention to recovery for young individuals facing such disorders. Marquesano's collaboration with WJCS and other entities has led to significant advancements in services for teens and young adults in Westchester County, including a highly acclaimed public service campaign, "You Don't Know The Half Of It," which earned recognition among Ad Age's "The 40 Best Ads For 2023."

Impacting Lives, Shaping Futures

The gala not only serves as a platform to honor Fleisch and Marquesano's remarkable contributions but also underscores the broader mission of WJCS in supporting 20,000 individuals across various challenges annually. With a history dating back to 1943, WJCS's comprehensive support system spans mental health, trauma, disabilities, aging, LGBTQIA+, and overcoming significant needs. Their integrated approach in collaborating with organizations like the harris project highlights a community-wide commitment to improving lives and outcomes for vulnerable populations.

A Legacy of Compassion and Innovation

Both Fleisch and Marquesano exemplify the power of personal dedication and innovative thinking in tackling some of today's most pressing social issues. Their work, deeply rooted in personal experiences and professional expertise, has not only transformed individual lives but also set a precedent for effective community service. As WJCS continues to partner with impactful leaders and organizations, the ripple effect of their collective efforts promises a brighter, more inclusive future for all in Westchester County.

As the community prepares to gather at the Brae Burn Country Club in honor of these two visionary leaders, it's clear that their legacies extend far beyond this single event. Through their tireless work and the ongoing efforts of WJCS, the path towards a more compassionate and integrated support system for those in need is continually being forged, offering hope and actionable change for countless individuals and families.