West Babylon UFSD

West Babylon Senior High School Class of 2018 graduate Mike Krass continues to give back to the community that supported him during one of the most difficult times in his life.
When Mike was entering eighth grade, he lost his father to pancreatic cancer, making the holiday season especially challenging. Through the school’s Adopt A Family program, his family received support that ensured there were still gifts to open on Christmas morning.

“At the time, I didn’t really know that it was the Leo Club and members of the high school community who were putting those presents under the Christmas tree,” Mike said. “Once I learned more about the program, I wanted to give back to the community that was always there for my family.”

Reconnecting with high school social worker Jaime Lemmo, Mike has adopted families in need for the past three years. This year, he adopted two larger families with multiple children. As a co-owner of K.C. Pizza and through his work in real estate photography, inspections, and cleaning services, Mike understands the meaningful impact local businesses can have within their communities.

“There’s such a satisfaction in being able to help when you were once the person who needed help,” he said. “I truly believe the greatest power of a small business is its ability to support the local community, and this is just another way we can do that.”
Ms. Lemmo, who has served the district for 18 years, noted the significant growth of the Adopt A Family program. Districtwide, West Babylon adopts approximately 100 families each holiday season, with 30 families supported by the high school alone. The Leo Club, now more than 150 members strong, represents nearly 10% of the high school student body and continues to expand its mission of service beyond the holidays.

“They understand why community service matters,” Ms. Lemmo said. “It resonates with them, and what they’re doing extends far beyond this time of year.”

Mike hopes his story inspires others to give back in whatever way they can. “It doesn’t matter how much time or money you have,” he said. “Even the smallest act can make a real difference.”