We Often Forget To Thank Those Who Give Unrecognized And Unmentioned.

In the Month of May, the Rockland County Office For the Aging Advisory Council awarded the "2024 Outstanding Contribution By A Senior Citizen" to me and the New York State Office for the Aging with the "Exemplary Volunteer Service Award" and the New York State Senate awarded me membership into the "New York State Senate Veteran Hall of Fame". All because of the fulfillment of a vision for homeless veterans -- 14 beautiful fully furnished permanent affordable supportive homes for homeless veterans in a lovely neighborhood.

Of course I am profoundly grateful and deeply moved for these above honors but feel strongly about those who helped made those honors possible unseen, quietly and with only their content for their un-selfish contribution of their time, labor and money knowing they were part of saving deserving lives and hope.

These are:

First and foremost are the seven members of the Board of Directors of the ""Rockland Homes For Heroes, Inc.", a Not-for-Profit 501[c[3 Charity, who stood beside me, step by step for more than 4 years. They never said no, never said can't, never failed giving more than needed. They are Carl Dornbush [a veteran], John Manifold [ a veteran with a Purple Heart Award earned in Viet Nam ], Carlos Martinez, Tom Micelli [a veteran], Monica Toscano, Will Warren and Marty Wortendyke. They contributed contributions of money and labor and never took a penny for their work.

Then there are those contributions from youngsters raising a few dollars standing in the cold on a street stand selling hot cocoa.

Then there are so many who contributed what they could afford but wanted to be part of the vision, the mission, the cause which made a statement about their feelings toward veterans.

Then there were the businesses, stores, utilities, Foundations, community organizations which made contributions of incredible generous amounts of cash, some from with a request for absolutely no publicity, others to set an example. None had any profit to gain. But it made our dream come true.

When I step back, I see a "Giant Community Family" taking care their sisters and brothers who served in our military and who are homeless. And a home is as important as air, water, food, clothes and a safe place to live with dignity.

And the "Community Family" wants our homeless to have a safe home like theirs and we gave them a home that will restore their self esteem. Just one example was a veteran living in a truck.

When I ponder about our shared vision, I like to think I was simply the symphony conductor waving a baton while the beautiful music came from all the wonderful music makers [the Community Family ], each with something beautiful to contribute.

I close by expressing my deepest gratitude to my wife, the source of my strength who continues to inspire and encourage me and who gives me 100% support and help.

God Bless all.

www.rocklandhmeforheroes.org