Mike's Story

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
Winston Churchill

Of all of Mike’s many accomplishments, he was most proud of his family. He was a devoted husband and father to four amazing children. He was the dad at early-morning practices, after-school pickups, games, and tournaments, and he took enormous pride in being there for every milestone. He was a lifelong Yankees fan, a proud New Yorker, a loyal friend, and someone whose generosity extended far beyond his own family. 
That same commitment to people defined Mike’s professional life. Over nearly three decades in accounting and advisory, Mike built an accomplished career as a Managing Director, CPA, and National Consumer and Industrial Products Leader at CBIZ. He became a trusted advisor to family businesses, executives, investors, and financial institutions, building relationships that often extended far beyond work. 
But Mike measured success by more than his own accomplishments. He made it a priority to help the people around him succeed, spending countless hours mentoring colleagues, sharing his experience, making introductions, and opening doors. He had a gift for seeing connections others might not and bringing together people he believed should know one another. Many of the people he supported went on to become leaders themselves. 
He brought that same generosity to his community, dedicating his time and leadership to charitable and professional organizations and never hesitating to help someone in need. 
Mike showed up for people. 
When you needed help, he was there. When you were seeking advice, he was there. When you needed someone to open a door, he not only opened it, he held it for you and walked beside you. 
And Mike gave without expecting anything in return. 
Whether it was his family, a friend, a colleague, a client, or someone just beginning their career, Mike showed up. He believed in people, invested in them, connected them to one another, and helped create opportunities for them to succeed. 

That is the legacy we want to carry forward. 

  • Three children sit on the ground; two appear concerned while one hugs their knees, showcasing vulnerability and emotion.
  • A person holds a small animal wrapped in pink fabric, standing inside a room with various items around them.
  • Aerial view of people gathered around a table, working together with plants and materials in a cozy indoor setting.
  • A group of seven people poses together on a staircase, smiling and dressed in casual outfits.
  • A person sitting on a bench with a laptop, focused and working in a bright, classroom-like environment.
  • Two women carry baskets on their heads while walking through a lush, green landscape, wearing vibrant traditional clothing.
  • A person walks on a red carpet in a desert, flanked by decorative lanterns under a clear blue sky.
  • A person in scrubs holds a stethoscope with one hand while resting the other hand on their arm.
  • A young man sits outdoors, focused on his laptop while surrounded by greenery and a modern building.
  • Hands of diverse people holding small plants in a circle, symbolizing unity and environmental care.
  • A group of volunteers in matching shirts organizes boxes outdoors, smiling and working together.

Our Team

The People Behind the Promise

Smiling woman with long brown hair wearing a grey blazer, standing between a bright orange wall and a city window.

Jennifer Palmer

Director

CEO & Founder of JPalmer Collective

Professional headshot of a man with glasses and a dark blazer in a bright, blurred office setting.

Brian Nuzio

Director

Managing Director at CBIZ

Smiling woman with dark hair in a messy bun and a nose ring, wearing a white t-shirt against a light background.

Britt O'Rourke

Director

Senior Vice President at M&T Bank

Smiling woman with long brown hair wearing a grey blazer, standing between a bright orange wall and a city window.

Jennifer Palmer

Director

CEO & Founder of JPalmer Collective

Professional headshot of a man with glasses and a dark blazer in a bright, blurred office setting.

Brian Nuzio

Director

Managing Director at CBIZ

Smiling woman with dark hair in a messy bun and a nose ring, wearing a white t-shirt against a light background.

Britt O'Rourke

Director

Senior Vice President at M&T Bank

Smiling woman with long brown hair wearing a grey blazer, standing between a bright orange wall and a city window.

Jennifer Palmer

Director

CEO & Founder of JPalmer Collective

Professional headshot of a man with glasses and a dark blazer in a bright, blurred office setting.

Brian Nuzio

Director

Managing Director at CBIZ

Smiling woman with dark hair in a messy bun and a nose ring, wearing a white t-shirt against a light background.

Britt O'Rourke

Director

Senior Vice President at M&T Bank

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Why should you trust our foundation?

The Michael Sacco Foundation is committed to honoring Mike’s legacy with integrity, care, and responsible stewardship. The Foundation’s leadership will oversee its activities and ensure that funds are used to advance its charitable mission.

How are donations used?

Donations support the Foundation’s charitable initiatives, beginning with the campaign for the Michael Sacco Community Center. Funds help advance each initiative and cover the necessary costs associated with carrying out the Foundation’s work.

How do we demonstrate transparency in our campaigns?

We are committed to sharing meaningful updates about fundraising progress, important milestones, and how contributions are being used. As our work develops, updates will be shared through our website and campaign communications.

How has your support made a difference so far?

As a newly established Foundation, every contribution helps build momentum and bring our first initiatives to life. Your support will help create opportunities for young people, strengthen communities, and carry Mike’s generosity forward for generations to come.

Still have questions or need help?

Our team is always ready to assist you.

Your Donation Can Make an Impact Today

Carrying forward Mike's legacy by bring people together, creating opportunities, and strengthening communities.

Hands giving a high five, from a low angle
Hands giving a high five, from a low angle

Create a free website with Framer, the website builder loved by startups, designers and agencies.