Audrey McAllister

Manhattan

Manhattan

Cassandra Armstrong

Manhattan

Javarro Long

Javarro Long is a dedicated law enforcement officer with an impressive 19-year career at the New York City Police Department. Currently serving in the Community Affairs Bureau and Youth Strategies Division, Javarro has consistently demonstrated his commitment to serving the community.

Manhattan

Michael Nisbett

Michael Nisbett, lovingly known as “Uncle Mike” by many, retired in 2019, after 37 years of employment at Hunter College CUNY, where he served as the Director of the college’s Technology Resource Center. Under his leadership the center expanded and developed many programs and initiatives, one of which was the Zabar Internship Program. This program hired computer science students and provided them with financial assistance as well as mentorship and professional support.

Manhattan

Paul Zigler

For over four decades, Paul Zigler has been a pillar of strength, unity, and joy in his Harlem community. As a longtime Block Association President, Paul has worked tirelessly to create safe, connected spaces for neighbors to gather, celebrate, and support one another. From hosting legendary block parties and game nights to organizing family-friendly bus rides and resource events, Paul has always found creative ways to bring people together. A proud Father and dedicated community servant, Paul leads with love, consistency, and deep-rooted care. His commitment isn’t just about events—it’s about building a sense of belonging and pride in the place he calls home. Generations of families have benefitted from his leadership, and his legacy continues to grow through every life he touches.

Manhattan

Tiana Cardona

My name is Tiana Cardona I'm a mom of 2 boys 4 and 12 years old. Growing up in the foster care system I wanted to make a change but didn't know how. I dedicated my heart in advocating for other youth in the foster care system. I became a family service coordinator to help families access resources, support and services within my community while also teaching in the NYC educational system. I helped to connect families with programs resources to address various needs including housing and childcare. This recognition means a lot to me because I'm being recognized that my contributions and achievements are being acknowledged and valued for over 22 years. This will be my first official recognition; my work and efforts are finally noticed.!!! Not just by the people and youth i helped! This leads me to a higher sense of self worth to continue doing what i love. Within THE Heaven family CENTER (FEC) we are not just a community we are a Family!!!

Manhattan

Valentina Spalten Sbarra

Valentina Spalten Sbarra is a proud mom of two in Washington Heights and a board member of Friends of 187, a parent-volunteer-run non-profit that fundraises for the arts at PS/IS 187 Hudson Cliffs. She is a long-time class parent representative at the school, helps run neighborhood events like the beloved Egg Hunt in Fort Tryon Park and organizes a middle grade reading book club at the local bookshop. Spreading joy and bringing people together in her community are guiding forces in her everyday life.

Manhattan

Anisa Ndoci

Anisa Ndoci is a dedicated parent leader at PS 96 and a founding member of the NIDC Family Advisory Board. A recent immigrant and IT professional from Albania, she brings her tech expertise to family workshops on digital safety and education. Her volunteerism and leadership have strengthened community engagement, making her a vital advocate for inclusive, informed, and empowered families.

Bronx

Donyella Ramsey

As a Parent Coordinator for the past 16 years at Equality Charter School, my role has been to build strong, trusting relationships between families and the school community. What inspires me is our scholars and their families. I want parents to receive the same support that I was fortunate to have when my own children attended school. I want families to know that I am here for them—ready to support them in any way I can—and that I always have their best interest at heart.

Bronx

Gisel Berroa

My name is Gisel Berroa, best known throughout the community as Ms. Gigi. I started off as a volunteer at the age of 12 with the non-profit PIUS XII Youth & Family Services by assisting elementary students with their homework. Being raised by my hardworking, passionate, and loving mother, I knew that helping others was my calling. At this age I met my mentors and was guided in the right path as a participant to explore the educational field. At the age of 14, I secured a part-time job as a group leader and have flourished ever since. I serve my community by providing various resources for our families in need, showing compassion and understanding due to unfortunate life circumstances.

Bronx

Gloria Latimore-Bermudez

I am a dedicated Assistance Teacher/Instructor for middle school. This is where I deal with. family in crisis and emotional support. It is said, " I take a village to rise a child", but the community does the same. It important to help everyone that need help. I love give back to my community, helping other and the power of learning from each other it the best part of the community.

Karina Suriel

I feel that people in my community know that they can count on me, they know if I don't have a solution or answer I will work with them to find it.

Mark Nelson

Mark Nelson is a dedicated community volunteer whose impact can be seen across generations. For years, Mark has quietly and consistently supported families in need—helping move students to and from college, transporting belongings, and making sure no young person is left behind due to a lack of resources. He is a fierce advocate for youth and homeless families, organizing game nights, community trips, and even supporting basketball leagues to keep young people engaged and inspired. Mark’s commitment is hands-on and heart-first, showing up whenever and wherever he’s needed to uplift those around him.

Quinton Ervin

Quinton Ervin began his journey at Good Shepherd Services, in the Bronx, in 1989, serving as a Teem Director. With passion, leadership, and consistency, Quinton steadily rose through the ranks, eventually making his way to MS 206, where he became the impactful and inspiring Program Director we know and admire today. Quinton has long been a pillar in our community—a steady presence who brings wisdom, compassion, and vision to every space he enters. The impact Quinton has had on the Bronx community, these 35 years, is immeasurable. He doesn’t just run programs—he nurtures people, uplifts voices, and builds legacy.

Bronx

Terrell Henderson

My Name is Terrell Henderson. I am a girl dad. I love the journey of fatherhood. My hobbies are reading, writing and learning. I am an advent knowledge seeker. I humbly appreciate sharing my presence.

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Bronx

Yvonne Williams

I am a Senior program director in the University heights section of The Bronx which I have been for over 30 years. I love to serve the youth families and staff. Encouraging them to go and grow beyond the boundaries that are set upon them. I love to see the faces return and bring their memories. We cry, laugh , celebrate and mourn together. We are family. What inspires me are the many hugs and smiles given to me but also are shared and make me proud. Youth have grown to adults and now I get to help raise their children. What a blessing.

Bronx

Aasma Nuzzi

Dr. Aasma Nuzzi is the COO and Clinical Director at COPO, where she has led community mental health and advocacy work since 2002. A licensed counselor, she provides culturally sensitive care to immigrant families and leads initiatives supporting youth, wellness, and inclusion. A mother of three, including two children with special needs, Aasma brings deep empathy to her work, guided by personal and professional commitment to care.

Brooklyn

Aisha Carr

Aisha L. Carr, MPA, is the Director of Program Operations at Sesame Flyers, where she leads youth development programs that foster academic success, personal growth, and cultural pride. Driven by the resilience of the youth she serves, Aisha takes pride in building lasting relationships with families and helping young people grow into confident leaders who give back to their communities.

Brooklyn

Amber Adler

Amber Adler is a longtime C-Suite executive and community activist who has spent over 20 years raising funds and advocating for education, family services, and children with special needs. Alongside her two sons, she’s devoted thousands of volunteer hours to causes like street safety, antisemitism awareness, and domestic abuse reform. A skilled coalition builder, Amber is a leading voice on the Agunah Crisis and champions legislation to combat coercive control in New York State.

Brooklyn

Anthony Gadison

I proudly serve as an EMT with the FDNY, where I respond to emergencies and work to save lives every day. Beyond my role in the field, I stay active in the community by participating in school career days and mentoring young people, especially at my son’s school. What inspires me most is knowing that I can make a difference, whether it’s during a critical moment on the job or by encouraging a student to dream big. Receiving this recognition from my son’s school means so much because it reflects both my work as a public servant and my commitment as a parent. Of all the things I’ve done, I’m most proud of being a positive example for my son and his peers, showing them that with dedication, heart, and service to others, anything is possible.

Brooklyn

Claude McCammon

As a middle school parent coordinator and sports coach in Brooklyn, I am deeply involved in the lives of young students. My primary inspiration stems from a commitment to helping young black and brown students navigate the significant challenges they face. I aim to assist them in overcoming obstacles within systems that may not support their success and counter the negative influences of social media algorithms. Playing a part in guiding them through life's difficulties is what drives my work daily. The impact I am most proud of is seeing these students successfully navigate these complexities and thrive.

Brooklyn

Diane Martinez

I am currently the Deputy Director of School Based Programs for the Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island. In this capacity I oversee the administrative and programming needs of School Violence Prevention programs and Extended Day Services in six Brooklyn schools. At Rachel Carson High School, I am the Program Director for the Project H.O.P.E. (Harboring Opportunities and Promoting Empowerment) program. Under my tutelage more than half of the registered students at Rachel Carson High School have enrolled in one or more of Project H.O.P.E.’s activities. Helping to fuel such participation is the close dynamic between Project H.O.P.E.’s staff and school administration. As a former DOE administrator I have forged genuine connections with the Rachel Carson community. In fact, at the school’s request, I became a member of their School Leadership Team. Furthermore, I have made a commitment to safety offering the Safe Passage program to ensure the wellness of the students in route home.

Brooklyn

Ericka Rambert

Ericka currently serves as the Community Engagement Coordinator at NIA Carey Gardens Cornerstone, where she wears many hats. From organizing events and initiatives to connecting families with resources and services, she is known for her hands-on approach, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to those she serves. A true pillar of her community, Ericka Rambert continues to lead by example, inspiring the next generation to rise, thrive, and give back.

Brooklyn

Howard Williams

I presently serve by title of Regional Director but truly by my real title of Servant because I present myself to ensure I support every family, scholar and community member I come in contact with through authenticity, passion and faith. I’m inspired daily because I lost my parents at a young age and I know the pivotal role I play in each scholar’s life. Each scholar is the inspiration, from the worse behaved to the honor rolled scholar, they all need support.

Brooklyn

Jenny Ortiz

Jenny Ortiz is a dedicated Case Manager at opportunities for a better tomorrow. She helps her participants to engage, trust, dream big, build relationships, counsels and assist them with services, so they can obtain their GED and move onto the pursuit of their own happiness. She loves to see youth triumph over everyday obstacles, heal and obtain their goals. Their found happiness brings Jenny great joy! This recognition humbles her and elevates her commitment and passion to doing so much more work for youth.

Brooklyn

Jeremiah Mcclean

I'm 38 a single dad to my daughter in this program to help me be a better father to my daughter.

Brooklyn    

JoAnn Locklear

I am the Sr. Associate Pastor at Fountain Christian Center, Inc in Brooklyn NY . I have served as Youth Director for over 20 years and currently advising some of those I mentored how to lead and build a strong youth group. I am most proud of my ability to reach youth of all ages and how they respect and actually listen to me. Until this day they call me for advice or spiritual guidance. So many seek my advice when making life decisions be it relationship, career or just everyday life decision. My desire is to make sure they know they are heard, valued and appreciated. Mentoring youth is truly my passion.

Brooklyn 

Jquan Webb

Jquan Webb from Bedstuy Brooklyn. Just trying to be me in society. I have been working for fatherhood at Lagcc for 9 years now where I teach high school equivalency mathematics. I also work for the justice program at John Jay. All while pursuing a degree and being a step dad, dad, husband and man.

Brooklyn 

Kayla Ruperto

Kayla Ruperto is an Elementary Site Director and has worked with the youth for the past 11 years. Throughout her career, she's been a guide, a listener, and a consistent source of encouragement for the youth in her community.

Brooklyn

Ken Li

I am Ken Li, a proud father of my 3 children attending public schools in school district 20 Brooklyn NY. I have been advocating for school safety and after school programs. When I heard of 2 kids being beat up outside of IS 201in September 2023, I immediately joined other organizers to coordinate a protest AGAINST school violence on October 30, 2023, As soon as I heard after-school programs were about to be cut, I organized a protest in August 2024 outside of a school building which was joined by the assemblyman William Colton, City Councilwoman Susan Zhaung, parents, and CEC 20's members to keep After-School Programs to help all children including mine. I am a candidate for Community Education Council of district 20 to help our kids.

Brooklyn

Knigel Boone

My name is Knigel Boone and I am a husband and a father. I love being there for my family and helping others to succeed. I am a God fearing man who only want the best for everyone.

Brooklyn

Kong Leung Chan

Mr. Kong Leung Chan is a dedicated community advocate at Homecrest Community Services, making an impact both on the broader stage and within his local community—in one example, traveling to the State Capitol to speak out on EBT theft, and in others, offering direct support to his friends and neighbors in need. He is honored to be recognized for his commitment to public advocacy and community care.

Brooklyn

Michelle Pringle-Davis

I’ve always worked in the community where I lived. I’m able to speak to different people everyday and make a difference. I love caring for my family and friends. I’m very family oriented. I love a peaceful environment. My PEACE is everything to me.

Brooklyn

Sallie Bennett

Sallie Bennett,is a dedicated PTA Member and coordinator at PS IS 109 Glenwood Academy, where she has helped to connect many families to the school during critical Times. She is also the Food Pantry coordinator at FRC distribution center, distributing food every two weeks. She believes in the power of community and is honored to be recognized for doing what she loves.

Brooklyn

Sau King Chan

Ms. Sau King Chan is a retired music teacher who has volunteered for 12 years at Homecrest Community Services, teaching Cantonese Opera to older adults to preserve and share this traditional art form. She has also been a dedicated advocate, attending rallies at City Hall to push for greater support for the NYC's AAPI community and older adults. Driven by a deep belief in the power of culture and community, she is honored to be recognized for doing what she loves.

Brooklyn

Aria Russell

Aria Russell (Ms.Ari/Ms.Aria) is the teen advisor at the LIC Y but also known as one of the Y ladies, with over 15 years experience working with youth of all ages she takes pride in giving her teens a safe space in the community. As a NYC city kid herself who strived the impact she’s most proud of is the children she helped raised, tutored look out for in the community and striving in the work force and pushing through for higher educations such as post secondary education just to say they can out do me, all while showing her son “mommy is cool at work too”. “I’m just honored and thankful for being acknowledged just doing something that I love.”

Queens

Brandon Edwards

Brandon is a Hardworking Dad in the community.

Queens 

Calicia Hewitt

, Calicia Hewitt is a dedicated DOE educator, multiple Parent Leadership award recipient, and the PTA President at RFK Middle School. She also serves as the fundraiser coordinator for Practice More Talk Less, a nonprofit youth basketball team. Ms. Hewitt stays actively involved in school and community events and strongly advocates for students and families. She is grateful for the opportunity to be recognized for her ongoing commitment to making a difference.

Queens

Elizabeth Johnson-Ray

Elizabeth Johnson-Ray, Proud Mother of four, and Autism/ Special needs Advocate.

Queens

Heather Liverpool

Heather Liverpool is a dedicated Senior Director for the High School and College Success division for Commonpoint. In her role, she oversees a community-based portfolio that serves youth navigate their journey from the first day of high school through adulthood. The most aspirational part of her job is our youth, allowing her into their lives as they explore passions, make mistakes, overcome barriers, and thrive!

Queens

Nicole Dorsey

My name is Nicole Dorsey. I am a mom, Glamma, auntie. By the way of profession, I am a Parent Coordinator and the chair of the Wellness Team at my school. I possess a Master's in Mental Health Counseling. My calling has always been to help others in any capacity I can. More recent it has been to remind people it is their birthright to be well. I enjoy giving back to my community by hosting back to school events, Christmas parties for the children, and donating to local shelters. I have a passion for social and emotional well-being being and hosts SEL back to school baqs, providing tools and strategies to students and families on how to cope when things get challenging. When I'm not doing community service, you can find me in church or at home with my Glam babies. Family is a very intricate part of who I am. I have three little girls who mean the world to me. Last, but not least my glam pup brings me so much joy.

Queens

Rasheedah Jennings

Rasheedah Jennings has been a Queens resident for 24 years and counting She is a single, working parent of two children and dedicated and committed community leader throughout the borough of Queens holding several elected leadership positions. Ms. Jennings is the former Vice President of Pomonok Resident's Association, current President of the NYPD Police Service Area (PSA) 9 Police Community Council and current President of DYCD Neighborhood Advisory Board (NAB) 8. Under community members to have their voices heard and their needs met. Ms. Jennings almost her lost her daughter to a random gunshot in a playground last year yet her tenacity, passion and drive to make a difference is unwavering as she continues to strive for the safety, security, and prosperity of her community.

Queens

Schency Augustin

Schency is a devoted husband, loving father, and committed public servant whose life is rooted in service, both at home and in the community. As a board member of the nonprofit EdeYouth, Schency dedicates his time to uplifting young people and empowering families through mentorship, resources, and faith-driven encouragement. In his professional role within our city’s jail system, he oversees vital programming and mandated service delivery, working to ensure dignity and accountability within the conditions of confinement. With a heart for transformation, Schency finds deep joy in helping youth discover their God-given potential and encouraging them to rise above challenges in pursuit of purpose. His work is a powerful reminder that leadership begins with love, and that true impact starts when we invest in the next generation.

Queens

Shaquana Pearson

, My role is program coordinator. I have worked for The Child Center of NY for ten years now and I've watched many people come and go. I've watched my program over time be negatively impacted by those who want to make a difference, one day their here and the next their gone. The youth asks questions that I don't always have the answers to what can be difficult for them to understand. I think about how inconsistent people can be in a child or young adult's life, I vowed to make a difference. I have made a difference in so many lives working with the youth and community not because I think so but because they said so. I serve my community by SHOWING UP. This recognition means a lot to me but not more than consistently being there for my community. I've had many jobs in addition to program coordinator and it didn't always work out because my spirit lead me to do something I love and that loves me. It is ab'SOUL'utely rewarding doing what I enjoy. I aim to build bridges, break chains and provide safe space for all.

Queens

Jude Alexandre

A hardworking father and A great help in his community.

Long Island

Annesa Ali

Annesa Ali is the founder of Making a Change with Kindness, created in response to her young daughter’s painful experience with bullying. Through kindness workshops and youth programs, Annesa teaches compassion and self-worth to children and families. Her mission is clear: kindness isn’t optional—it’s the foundation for a better world.

Staten Island

Marie Perani

With over 20 years of experience at the Eden II Program – Little Miracles Preschool, I have dedicated my career to supporting children with special needs and their families. I began as an assistant teacher and now proudly serve as a clinical coordinator. Recently, I earned a Master’s degree in Special Education, which has strengthened my ability to lead with both compassion and expertise. I am deeply committed to Eden II’s mission and believe the strong, trusting relationships I have built over the years are essential in fostering growth and empowering families as they navigate their children’s early developmental years.

Staten Island

Mathew John

Mathew John is an educator, inclusion coordinator, and psychology instructor for nursing students. He leads the JCC Adolescent Literacy Program and has over a decade of experience supporting English language learners, students with special needs, and at-risk youth. This award recognizes his impact and commitment to inclusion, education, and community service.

Staten Island