Thursday, October 29, 2026
In need of a way to take members to activities, Five Towns Senior Center Executive Director Georgiana Wolfson sought to obtain a federal grant for a bus 10 years ago.
Though the then Woodmere-based organization that is now headquartered in Hewlett didn’t get the grant they did receive financial assistance from a civic group and a local business.
Through Woodmere-based Five Towns Community Chest, Phil’s Body Works, a family-owned Hewlett business since 1952, stepped up to the plate and not only donated the $6,500 down payment for the bus, but continues to maintenance the vehicle and keep it on the road.
“I am so glad that even years later Phil’s continues to support us by willingly repairing the bus,” Wolfson said. “We’re very grateful for Phil’s Body Works’ continuous help and we hope to continue our wonderful relationship for years to come.”
Dominick Valenti, owner of the successful auto body business located on Broadway in Hewlett, was quick to help the senior center obtain the 14-passenger bus. “If the community treats you good, you have to give right back to the community,” Valenti said.
Through friendships with past Community Chest board members, Valenti and his wife, Vera, have been asked to support other worthy Five Towns causes and organization, including the JCC of the Greater Five Towns and the annual Five Towns Community Chest fair that was held last month. Taking pleasure and pride in helping others has always been part of the business due to Phil’s kind nature, Vera said. As the owners of Phil’s Body Works, Dominick and Vera are appreciative of the community that has kept their business running.
“I work here and I live here. If it wasn’t for this community I wouldn’t be able to have my business,” said Dominick, whose business has also provided food and served it at a Five Towns Community Center event.
A family-run shop, Phil’s Body Works has three generations of family members helping the business operate. Valenti’s son, Richard, runs the business side, and Valenti’s granddaughter, Dominique Marghella enjoys coming after school to spend time with family. Marghella likes the relationships that the business has developed these community organizations.
“I always like going to the Community Chest fair in Cedarhurst. I remember the rides, being with family and overall having a fun time with others, which makes organization something special,” she said.
The Senior Center’s bus can be seen ferrying members between the parking on East Rockaway Road to the Carriage House on the opposite said of that roadway, where the Center is located and to trips to Lido Beach and museums, restaurants and shows in Manhattan.
Wolfson is thankful for how much the community has assisted her organization’s members and her philosophy is another take on thinking globally and acting locally. “Goodness and kindness should extend globally,” said Wolfson. “It is just a very nice gesture when a member of our community pitches in to help. Kindness should be contagious.”
