Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J. Santino and the town board recognized 12 extraordinary community members for contributions to their local neighborhoods at the 20th annual Make A Difference Awards ceremony.
“Every year we gather to honor the unsung heroes who strive to improve their communities and help their fellow citizens,” said Santino. “Their selfless acts of volunteerism and leadership are symbols of the heart and soul of the town.”
The honorees have all dedicated themselves to enriching the lives of others. Hundreds of nominations were received for the prestigious award. Santino noted that each of the honorees had an inspiring story of courage, volunteerism and philanthropy, including Debora Thivierge of Levittown.
For Thivierge, autism awareness is observed everyday. Her passion for serving children and families impacted by autism spectrum disorder is reflected in her years as Executive Director and Founder of The ELIJA School.
A mother of a 17-year-old son with autism, Thivierge founded the ELIJA Foundation and School to provide the community with educational opportunities focused on children with autism, while empowering families with vital information and programs. Without much time to spare, she lends her support and wealth of knowledge as a volunteer for Nassau County’s Department of Health Early Intervention Coordinating Council, the Nassau County Autism Coalition and an array of autism support groups and organizations.
An advocate who fights for children, adults and their families, day or night, Thivierge’s dedication highlights the everyday reality faced by those impacted by autism behind the scenes and not in the headlines or during awareness month.
—Submitted by Susan Trenkle-Pokalsky
