Community News

Michael K. Billia Named To Book Fairies’ Board Of Directors, Bringing Decades Of Community Engagement And Business Leadership Experience

Book Fairies, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating barriers to literacy, proudly announces the appointment of Michael K. Billia to its esteemed Board of Directors. With over three decades of experience in community service, leadership, and advocacy, Billia’s appointment strengthens the organization’s commitment to fostering literacy and educational empowerment in under-resourced communities.

Michael K. Billia currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer for Life’s WORC, where he has been affiliated for over 30 years in various capacities, including Board membership and, most recently, as Chief Administrative Officer. In his role, he oversees all non-residential programs, Human Resources, Quality & Assurance, Development, FCA, and Facilities, demonstrating his multifaceted leadership and management skills.

Prior to his tenure at Life’s WORC, Billia spent over 35 years in the financial industry, honing his expertise in leadership and management. Beyond his professional commitments, he actively engages in community service, serving on the boards of organizations such as the Michael Magro Foundation, Options for Community Living, Girls Inc, Ally Pond Environmental Center, and Queens Chamber.

Mike’s dedication to community service has earned him recognition as the honoree for The Michael Magro Foundation, Book Fairies, Townwide Fund of Huntington, and Alley Pond Environmental Center. In 2022, he was awarded the Moxxie Mentoring Foundation Award.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mike Billia to the Board of Directors of Book Fairies,” said Eileen Minogue, Executive Director of Book Fairies. “His extensive experience in community engagement, leadership, and commitment to serving those in need, will undoubtedly enrich our organization’s mission of promoting literacy and providing access to books for all.”

Michael’s appointment underscores Book Fairies’ dedication to diversifying its leadership team with individuals deeply rooted in community service and advocacy, particularly within the special needs sector.

In response to his appointment, Michael K. Billia shared, “I am honored to join the Board of Directors of Book Fairies and contribute to their noble mission of promoting literacy and fostering a love for reading. I look forward to working alongside the dedicated team to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.”

The Book Fairies’ Board of Directors now totals 10 members, including Michael Billia and:

  • Amy Zaslansky – President Emeritus and founder, The Book Fairies
  • George Brennan – President, Telesis Communication Services, Inc.
  • Christine Ireland – Vice President, Relationship Manager, TD Bank
  • Steven Miller, Esq. – Partner, Miller, Montiel & Strano, P.C.
  • Therese Mora – Huntington Office Branch Manager, Dime Bank
  • Joanna Austin – Board member
  • Kelly McGarrity – Board member
  • Pepper Martin – Educator – Westbury School District
  • Wade Richardson – Senior Manager of Community Relations & Game Presentation at BSE Global

About The Book Fairies
Book Fairies is a 501(c)(3) organization sources and redistributes books to under-resourced communities on Long Island, New York City and internationally to provide equitable access to books for children to Learn, Grow, and Thrive.  Over 1500 individuals volunteer with The Book Fairies, helping to source, sort, and pack boxes of books for distribution of free reading material to stock classrooms and build home libraries. Founded in 2012, The Book Fairies has redistributed and donated over four million books to local high need schools, shelters, soup kitchens, correctional facilities and even underdeveloped countries in Africa. For more information, visit www.bookfairies.org.

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