City of Yonkers hosts annual Women of Distinction awards
Each honoree was gifted with a proclamation, letter of recognition and award from the city.
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The ceremony was held at City Hall Monday evening to honor Girl Scout Troop 1787, Jaci LaGala-Pino, Elvina Schullere and Loniece Edwards for their selfless commitment to community engagement in the City of Yonkers.
The event is held each year as part of Women's History Month.
Each honoree was presented with awards for their work in the community.
Girl Scouts Troop 1787 was honored for its commitment in partnering with various nonprofits and events in the area.
Elvina Schullere, a 95-year-old author, singer and activist was also honored.
Schullere was honored for her overall activism, most specifically in the homeless community, as well as being an avid volunteer in community events.
"I feel like a kid. Did you see me jumping? This is so exciting. It's like getting a Christmas present under the tree for something that you like. That's how I feel," Schullere said beaming with excitement following the ceremony.
Loniece Edwards and Jaci LaGala-Pino were also honored for their work with children in the community.
Edwards is a Gorton High School alum who now works in the special education department within her alma mater.
She has devoted her time outside of the classroom to organizing fundraisers for DIPG, a brain tumor that affects children.
She is additionally the former president of 100 Hispanic Women, an organization that helps to support young Latinas educationally.
"I love to give back, I'm a giver. I love the community. I love kids especially," said Edwards.
Jaci LaGala-Pino, the fourth honoree, who was honored for her work in creating Yonkers' first Challengers League, an adaptive sports team for children with special needs.
Each honoree was gifted with a proclamation, letter of recognition and award from the city.
