Westchester Reporter

The Westchester County Youth Bureau and the Westchester County Youth Board recently held their annual Youth Service Awards ceremony. The event recognized high school juniors and seniors for their leadership and dedication to service and social justice. Ten students were honored with certificates from Westchester County Executive George Latimer and the Westchester County Board of Legislators, along with awards from the members of the Youth Board.

To be nominated, students completed projects on various topics, including technical assistance for individuals with developmental disabilities, literacy promotion among young readers, and fundraising for youth in homeless shelters both locally and internationally. The ceremony took place in the Rotunda of the Michaelian Office Building.

County Executive George Latimer expressed his admiration: “I am so pleased to be here this evening to share in the pride of these outstanding students and their families as they are honored with the Youth Board Youth Service Awards. Events such as these remind me why I love my job.”

Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins highlighted the significance of this year's event: “The fact that this year the Youth Board received the highest number of nominations to date is such a positive indicator for the future of this generation’s leaders.”

Youth Bureau Executive Director Ernest McFadden commented on the impact these young leaders have on their community: “Westchester County is truly better because of these esteemed leaders who inspire us all with their dedication to creating a brighter and more inclusive future.”

Youth Board Chair Dr. Alexandria Connally praised the awardees' contributions: “These young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today.”

Matthew Evans, Chair of the Youth Service Awards Committee, also commended their efforts: “The youth we honored today represent the very best of Westchester County...they're creating positive change right now.”