This fall, members of the Marlboro Central School District community united around a shared mission: raising awareness, building solidarity, and generating critical funds to support local families in need.
The Marlboro Faculty Association (MFA) launched this Districtwide effort with its highly anticipated PINKALICIOUS event at Mary Jane’s Dairy Bar in Middlehope back in October. Thanks to the generosity of attendees—who purchased T-shirts, bracelets, and treats or made direct donations—the event raised more than $3,500 for community members battling cancer or cancer-related illnesses. Even with a line wrapped around the building, the atmosphere remained upbeat, showcasing the power of kindness and community spirit.
Building on this momentum, the MFA hosted its DUKES FIGHT TOGETHER apparel fundraiser with Melinda and Mark Ciaglia at SC Designs in Marlboro. A portion of each sale was donated to the cause, generating more than $500. Throughout the month of October, faculty, staff, and students wore “Dukes Wear Pink” attire each Friday, turning Marlboro schools into a vibrant sea of pink in honor of cancer awareness.
Athletics also played a pivotal role. The Marlboro Middle School Modified Volleyball team, led by Coach Francine Lipsey, held a bake sale and dedicated one of its matches to the fight against cancer, together raising more than $1,200. The Junior Varsity and Varsity Volleyball teams also contributed by collecting donations at their games, adding an additional $250 to the total.
On October 19, Marlboro faculty members and their families participated in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets in Harriman. Walking together in honor of survivors and in memory of loved ones, the group completed the 5K with unity and purpose. Their efforts raised $1,500 for the American Cancer Society. The MFA extends a heartfelt thank-you to the Knights of Columbus for their generous donation supporting this initiative.
The fundraising season concluded with a special community dining event at the Angry Chef restaurant in Marlboro on October 30, hosted by the Rizvani family. For six hours, 50 percent of proceeds from all vodka-style dishes—both dine-in and takeout—were donated to the cause. The event generated $1,800 in just one evening.
In total, the MFA’s Dukes Fight Together Committee raised more than $8,700 to support the local American Cancer Society and assist Marlboro families impacted by cancer. Several families received checks this holiday season as a meaningful gesture of community support in their ongoing fight. These contributions help ensure more birthdays are celebrated and reinforce the message that no family battles alone.
The MFA extends its appreciation to everyone who contributed through donations, participation, volunteering, or simply sharing the message. Marlboro remains committed to standing united with hope, compassion, and strength.
