Who are we?
Club Executives
Melissa Munfakh
PresidentI am a Freeport resident and I’ve been involved in the local community in many capacities. I enjoy hiking, swimming, kayaking, and making use of all the outdoor green spaces in our community. After learning just how effective spending time outdoors is in maintaining good mental health, I committed to a personal resolution to explore a new outdoor space on Long Island every week for a year. Through this project, I have seen many local nature preserves and waterways. Struck by the difference in how these spaces are maintained in different communities, I was moved to join the Eco Club initiative to bring equity to the management of our green spaces. I believe that every member of our community has the right to safe, clean, well-maintained spaces close to home. Rotary has chosen to highlight mental health initiatives this year, which makes this a perfect time to bring attention to the mental health benefits of spending time outside in our local parks and preserves.
Michael Horowitz
Vice PresidentI am joining the Eco Club to reverse current erosion of our environment and prevent more erosion in the future. The impact of human activities on the environment is a pressing issue and it’s great to see our community taking action to make a difference. Eco Clubs focus on sustainability and environmental conservation, which can include activities I’m passionate about like tree planting, clean-up drives, educational programs, and advocacy. I am also an Eagle Scout as well as a member of Rotary, The Lions Club, The Freemasons, The Odd Fellows, Toastmasters, Knights of Pythias, Scouting USA, National Eagle Scout Association, and Rotary International Scouting Fellowship.
Chris McBride
SecretaryAs a person that loves hiking, nature photography, gardening and making friends, I have been in and around nature all my life. Seeing how our natural environment is gradually disappearing in my community and beyond, I feel a deep need to contribute my energy to making positive sustainable change for the next generation and those to come. I have been a Rotarian since 2004 when I was starting a new business and networking in my community. Rotary opened my eyes to the power of an organized group focused on goodwill and community service. It has been a life changing journey filled with new friends and countless opportunities to effect others lives in a powerful way.
Michael Staton
TreasurerWhen Chris suggested organizing an Eco Club I was all in. I have three grands one year old and under. What better way to engage in an activity that would benefit them locally. I’m passionate about impacting our Brookside Preserve in a way that they will be able to enjoy our community. I’ve seen what can be accomplished when people work together to achieve a common goal. I envision a neighborhood location that will allow us to extend our connectedness beyond our immediate family. To break the old tradition of isolation, not knowing our neighbors. The Preserve will be that vehicle connecting us on a grander scale. It takes a Community to raise a child. I’m excited about other potential projects like this for me personally and the community collectively.
Raju Subramaniam
Director of Public RelationsI am joining the Eco club to make a positive impact on the environment and connect with like-minded individuals. Aspirations for the future would be to participate in initiatives like conservation efforts, sustainability projects, and educational events to create a greener future.