2024 Poker for a Purpose Honoree: David Gussin

David Gussin is the Publisher of 516Ads.com and is known across the Island as “Long Island's ultimate networker.” Established in 2007, 516Ads.com prides itself on being 'Long Island's Business Community Network.' With the motto, 'Created by Long Islanders for Long Islanders,' David’s vision for these enterprises was to ‘ignite business” to make business busier and to use the platforms created to spread ‘good stuff’ in the community.

After 17 years, 516Ads.com has become a staple in Long Island's industries, including real estate, accounting, hospitality, entertainment, the nonprofit sector, and more. David has been featured in publications such as Newsday and The New Yorker and has been interviewed by media outlets such as CNN. As a reluctant leader, yet natural people person, David finds joy in connecting with people and businesses and assisting them with their needs.

Out of an eagerness to promote positivity and support change in the community, David founded LEARN- Let's End All Racism Now, an educational program created with the mission to promote a greater awareness and understanding of what racism is and how we can eradicate racism. The LEARN program has been adopted in schools across New York State. Among his many successes, is his self-proclaimed invention of the ‘Everything Bagel' when he was 15 years old working in a bagel shop in Howard Beach.

David is the proud father of two daughters, Jacqueline and Gabrielle, and he resides in Bay Shore, NY. He has been honored by various organizations including the Hempstead Boys & Girls Club, Hope for Youth, Long Island Advancement of Small Business (LIASB) and others. His volunteer work includes Jacie’s Kids, Pulse Center for Patient Safety Education & Advocacy (PULSE), The INN, and Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. His network has worked with more than 100 charities over the years, collecting much-needed items and necessities.

His altruistic entrepreneurial spirit makes him the perfect honoree for the 2024 Poker for a Purpose event to benefit the ACLD Vacation Fund.