Jamika Hall, founder and executive director of Mark’s Friends Inc., addressed the Orange County Legislature on Aug. 14 to describe the nonprofit she launched after her 17-year-old son was killed in 2018.

Hall said Mark’s Friends began as direct support for families affected by gun violence and has grown to provide safe spaces, music and cooking programs and wraparound services for children in Newburgh. “Mark’s Friends came as a thought and it was pushed through,” Hall said. “We created that space for children in Newburg and kids anywhere. If you can bring them, they can come.”

Hall described the challenges small nonprofits face and asked for connections to resources and sponsors to support upcoming events: a back-to-school distribution set for the 30th of the month and a 5-year anniversary Black-Tie Gala planned for Nov. 1 at 245 Liberty Street in Newburgh. She said gala tickets are $50 and sponsor levels are available; she asked interested parties to reach out to the organization for details.

Kevin Darian Luhan (introduced earlier by the chairman) brought Hall to the legislature to highlight community resilience and volunteer efforts that support families recovering from violent loss. The legislature gave Hall a distinguished-service award during the session.

Discussion vs. decision: Hall’s appearance was a presentation and request for community partnerships and support; the legislature recognized her work with an award but did not commit county funding during the session.

Contact and next steps: Hall asked individuals and organizations with resources to make warm handoffs and to contact Mark’s Friends; event dates and sponsorship information are being finalized by the nonprofit.