PHOTO: $1,000 Donated to Friends of Karen

Friends of Karen, a nonprofit that helps families with critically ill children, was the beneficiary of a $1,000 check presented from MSG Varsity and Optimum last Friday night at A Night for Jason, a charity fundraiser that celebrated its 26th benefit.

Started after Jason Mariano, a former student in the district, passed away from leukemia in the late 1980s, A Night for Jason has continued and was recognized by the organizations for participating in "Charity Champions" an Optimum Power to Learn program that encourages schools to raise funds for a charity of their choice.

Mariano's mother, Karen, accepted the check, with Suffolk County Legis. Kara Hahn also on hand to commend the students.

“The MSG Varsity/Power to Learn Charity Champions program is focused on encouraging charitable efforts at the high school level," said Cablevision Director of Education Evelyn Cruise. "It offers students a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in other people’s lives and provides a deserving charity, such as “Friends of Karen,” with additional support.

Another $500 was also donated to the school to help further the students' charitable activities.