We are pleased to announce that MHA’s Benita Marks was recently inducted into the Westchester Senior Citizens Hall of Fame!

Marks, a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Supervisor, has always been devoted to children and the needs of those who are the most disadvantaged. In the past 25 years, she has dedicated her time to advocacy on behalf of children in foster care and under the supervision of the Family Courts.  She has served as both a volunteer advocate and supervisor of MHA’s CASA program, as well as a member of the NY State CASA Board of Directors. 

Marks has a remarkable way of recognizing the needs of others and leading the charge toward solutions for better outcomes for all involved.  As she always says to others, her plan is to be CASA "until they put me in the ground."  During her tenure, hundreds of children have been touched by her compassion and advocacy.   

The daughter of a Judge, she grew up on the Upper West Side of New York City and attended Barnard College, later becoming a school teacher in New York City. When life brought her family to Westchester County, she wasted no time getting involved wherever she saw a need. She gave of herself to the school and community through her work as a member and President of the PTA; Chairperson for the Superintendent's Student Advisory Committee; Founder of the Oasis free teen night club; President for ICARE for the homeless; Founder of the Safe Rides Program; Member of the Larchmont/Mamaroneck Substance Abuse Task Force; Board Member of the Larchmont/Mamaroneck Community Counseling Center; Trustee and Deputy Mayor of the Village of Larchmont; Vice President and Board Member of Sharon Group of Hadassah; and Vice President of Larchmont Temple Sisterhood.  

As summarized above, Marks has spent a lifetime giving back.  Through her professional work and volunteerism, she has always been a leader.  However her true passion is for children. Marks raised three children, and has four grandchildren.  She has a prominent role in their lives, and is adored by all. 

As her nominator wrote, “Benita is a compassionate advocate, beloved by all who know her, a true friend, and perhaps the kindest person I know."