Text Box: Board of Directors Cynthia Kolarcik — President Cynthia has two precious sons.  Andrew the joy of her life and a special Angel in heaven Joseph Michael Kolarcik, born sleeping at 27 weeks. Cynthia was a stay at home mom until Andrew was four years old. She worked at Cross Roads Center for Children for three years. Helping children with Autism. She left Cross Roads to be a full time mom to Joseph. Since the loss of Joseph, Cynthia has not returned to work. She has dedicated her life to building the JMKF. Gary Kolarcik— Vice President Gary Kolarcik is proud to admit he is a family man above all else. Gary has so-far lived an interesting life, from growing up a “bad boy” in Levittown, NY to becoming a loving Husband, Father, and provider in his Scotia, NY household.  Gary currently works as an Operating Engineer for a fortune 100 property management company.  He also runs a small resale business in his spare time. In his life, Gary has experienced trauma on many levels.  He has seen the death of the younger brother, Christopher Glenn Kolarcik whose life was lost at age18.  Gary has witnessed many fatal scenes growing up in Levittown, and lost many friends to death.  He’s been robbed at gunpoint in Brooklyn, NY.  His commuter train once derailed returning home.  Gary witnessed all the horrors of 9/11/2001 live and in close proximity, in New York City.   Gary, in fact was stranded in lower Manhattan for hours until late that night.  Point being, he has grown callous, or desensitized to life’s tragedies, but nothing prepared him for the loss of his son, Joseph Michael. Amazingly, Gary still considers himself to be blessed despite his life’s encounters, and is grateful to be alive.  Gary’s experiences in life actually enhance his desire to make the Joseph Michael Kolarcik Foundation a success. Gary and Cynthia Kolarcik (President and Founder), have been married for 10 wonderful years. During that time his son Andrew was born.  Gary is not only his father, but his best friend. Gary would do anything for his family and always puts family first as he is a steadfast Traditionalist.  Since the loss of his son, Joseph Michael; Gary and Cynthia have grown even closer.  Gary feels the importance to thank God for what we are blessed with and not to focus on what we have not, or have lost.  It is perhaps not the popular mindset, but is what works for him, and what motivates him to pursue the JMKF. Gary understands that this is a very painful subject for most as it is for him, but his ideals and strength is what is needed to make the JMKF a reality and a sustained success. Gary loves children and was deeply saddened, (more than most men) at our misfortune of losing our second son, Joseph Michael. Gary is dedicated to the JMKF to produce positive results by helping families who need it as his once did. Along with his big heart; Gary’s strength, perseverance, and business mind are imperative attributes to the growth of this organization. Andrea O’Connor - Treasurer Andrea O’Connor has everything and more that she will ever need. I have been blessed with a loving husband and 3 amazing children ranging from the ages of 11-5. They are precious and true treasures in every way they can be. Abby, Jared and Rylee are what I live for everyday. I was fortunate enough to stay home and be with my children for almost 4 years. I started back to work in June 2008 and sadly had to have others help with my children. As fortunate as we were to have my family assist us, it’s been a hard time for me and I’m still working on getting back into the grove of things even a year later. I’m currently going to school and studying to be a teacher. In the mean time, I’m also working at Scotia Glenville Middle School as a secretary. Our schedules are busy and our children continue to keep them busy with their love for soccer, lacrosse and baseball; among other things. In the year 2000, we lost both my husbands Dad and my son Richard. Life has taken us down many different roads, but together we have stayed strong and hope to continue to help others deal with a loss that really isn’t expected and unfortunate. I look forward to the many days ahead crossing paths with new and old faces and hopefully, one day, becoming the person I am striving to be. Kathy Burns – Secretary Kathy is a proud wife and mother of three precious boys ages 5, 8 and 10. Before starting a family, Kathy always knew when she had children she wanted to be at home with them like her own mother was with her and her sisters. When she had her first son in 1998 she left work and decided to watch children out of her home to help supplement the income. For the past 11 years Kathy has had the ability to stay at home watching her children grow while being able to care for others at the same time. It has given her much joy to be able to do this. Family is very important to Kathy and she understands that a strong family support system is invaluable. Although she has not suffered the loss of a child; she has been there for others and understands the pain involved and the importance of support and awareness. Kathy is proud to be part of JMKF and will continue to strive toward a successful future for the foundation and all that it serves. Jennifer Day-Suit I am a wife and mother of two beautiful girls, Laila (12) and Hailey (2). I stay very busy with Laila's involvement in sports and Hailey's constant energy but I wouldn't want it any other way. I have an associates degree in Accounting and someday wish to return to school to further my education although I am undecided as to how I want to further it. I have not personally suffered the loss of a child but have offered my support to others close to me affected by this. I am honored to be a part of JMKF and will do everything possible to reach above and beyond the goals of the foundation.  

Board of Directors
Joseph Michael Kolarcik
Foundation