Mahopac’s Marianne Chaluisan named Woman of Distinction 

When community members in Mahopac need help — whether it is food drives during a pandemic, support for police officers, or simply information about what is happening around town — local officials say Marianne Chaluisan is often among the first to step forward. 

That long record of volunteerism and community involvement was recognized Saturday when state Assemblyman Matt Slater honored Chaluisan during his annual Women of Distinction ceremony held at Carmel Town Hall. 

Chaluisan, founder of the popular Mahopac Moms Facebook community group and the Back the Blue Putnam organization, was one of seven women from across the 94th Assembly District recognized for civic service and leadership. 

In introducing Chaluisan, Slater praised her decades of involvement in the Mahopac community. 

“For 37 years, Marianne has dedicated herself to building a stronger, more connected community through compassion, volunteerism and service to others,” Slater said. 

He credited her with organizing food and clothing drives, helping transport residents in need and creating one of the area’s earliest online community groups, Mahopac Moms, which has grown to nearly 11,000 members. 

“What started with just a handful of members has grown into a network of nearly 11,000 people who support one another through information sharing, resources and most importantly friendship,” Slater said. 

Slater also highlighted Chaluisan’s support for law enforcement through Back the Blue Putnam, which organizes annual prayer walks honoring fallen police officers and their families. He noted that she received the Westchester Blue Foundation’s Civilian Support Award in 2023. 

“Marianne’s generosity, leadership and dedication to bringing people together reflect the very best of our community,” Slater said. 

In remarks included in a press release, Town Supervisor Mike Cazzari said Chaluisan has consistently answered the call to help others. 

“Marianne has been a dedicated community volunteer for many years, consistently stepping up to assist those in need,” Cazzari said. “During a time when police officers across the nation were facing heightened criticism and being unfairly portrayed, she took meaningful action. As the founder of Back the Blue in our community, Marianne worked to rally local support for law enforcement, fostering unity and appreciation.” 

Accepting the recognition, Chaluisan thanked friends, family and the Carmel Town Board for nominating her. 

“I think the greatest part of being involved in the community — my biggest accomplishment — was meeting such great people that turned into friends that turned into family,” she said. 

Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne said he has known Chaluisan for years and praised both her advocacy and charitable efforts. 

“She’s always volunteering and she’s always stepping up,” Byrne said, adding that she also helped raise awareness for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome through annual county events. 

 “It takes a lot of effort, discipline and courage to stand up and speak out.” Byrne said. 

Members of the Carmel Town Board also spoke warmly of Chaluisan’s work in the community. 

Councilman Frank Lombardi recalled how Chaluisan helped organize multiple food drives during the COVID-19 pandemic after recognizing local need. 

“She stepped in like she does on many other things,” Lombardi said. “If Marianne Chaluisan is your friend, you never have to worry about your back.” 

Councilman Bob Schanil described Chaluisan as “one of the nicest, kindest people I’ve ever met,” while Councilman Rob Kearns said her Mahopac Moms Facebook page has become an important source of information for local residents. 

“A lot of people within our community, that’s their first source of information,” Kearns said. “That’s where they go to find out what’s going on in our town.” 

The ceremony honored women nominated by municipalities and community leaders throughout Slater’s district for professional achievements, volunteer service and civic impact. 

Other honorees included Serafina Mastro of Yorktown, Jennifer Cassidy of Southeast, Angela Maass of Patterson, Meg Timone of Somers, Wendy Whetsel of Putnam Valley and Jaime McGlasson of Kent.