Mark Bezos to Receive Open Door Award at Gourmet Galaxy

Scarsdale resident Mark Bezos has been selected to receive the "Open Door Award for Community Service" at this year's Gourmet Galaxy fundraiser, which is sponsored by the Scarsdale Edgemont Family Counseling Service. The annual event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 1, at the Westchester Country Club.

Mark Bezos is a Senior Vice President in charge of Communications and Events at The Robin Hood Foundation, New York's largest private poverty-fighting charity. Mark has been responsible for creating some of the most successful fund-raising events and concerts in history – from a charity gala that raised $88 million in a single night, to the recent "12-12-12 Concert for Sandy Relief," which was seen around the world and raised more than $50 million. A hundred percent of the money that has been raised is earmarked for programs that help the poor.

When he's not fighting poverty, Mark is fighting fires as the Captain of Scarsdale Volunteer Fire Company 2. He has lived in Scarsdale since 2004 with his wife, Lisa, and their four children, three of whom currently attend the Scarsdale schools. Mark, whose childhood was spent outside of New York, observed that it is common for people who grew-up in Scarsdale to make it their home as adults. "It speaks volumes about what an engaged, safe and supportive town Scarsdale is. Having relocated a lot in my youth, I've been moved by seeing families put down roots in such a great community."

For over ninety years, Scarsdale Edgemont Family Counseling Service has provided emotional support, outreach to youth and the elderly, and community education. The staff of licensed mental health practitioners, youth outreach workers, and geriatric social workers are available not only in times of crisis, but also during the challenges that accompany every stage of life.

Together with cocktails and a silent auction, the Gourmet Galaxy benefit is unique in featuring a generous selection of culinary specialties from many of Westchester's greatest chefs. For tickets, call 914-723-3281, or e-mail info@sfcsinc.org.