Westchester Announces Youth Service Award Recipients

WHITE PLAINS, NY — County Executive George Latimer, the Westchester County Youth Bureau and Youth Board honored Francine Vernon, Daniel Bonnet and Demisha Forrester with the Rosemarie Siragusa Memorial Youth Service Award. The recipients were nominated by their peers and selected by the Westchester County Youth Board for their exceptional volunteer work and passion for children, youth and families in Westchester County.

Latimer said that in Westchester, residents tirelessly dedicate their time and efforts towards the betterment of our families and young people.

"And that is what this award is all about," he said.

"We wish we were able to recognize all of these residents, but those who were nominated today embody all who make the same efforts. I encourage local citizens to submit their nominations and help us honor a select few who make a huge difference in the years to come,” Latimer said.

Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden, director of the Westchester County Youth Bureau said the bureau and board are proud to keep the legacy of Rosemarie Siragusa, the founder and Chairman of the Westchester County Youth Board, alive by honoring individuals who embody her passion and commitment to the community.

"Like Mrs. Siragusa, who understood the value of creating a community of caring and civically engaged young persons, the 2020 awardees are celebrated for their volunteerism, advocacy and long-term commitment to Westchester’s children, youth and families,” she said.

Francine Vernon has built up infrastructure to support youth and families both in Ossining and across the county for over 40 years. She has persevered in her personal mission and vision to create sustainable and impactful infrastructure and programming for youth and families.

Daniel Bonnet, of New Rochelle, was nominated because of the work he had done with the Guidance Center of Westchester. Here, he assists at-risk, underserved youth on developing a life plan by preparing and facilitating individual/groups for at-risk youth addressing behavioral and/or social/ emotional issues, college career readiness, academic advancement and other relevant content.

Demisha Forrester works with the White Plains Community Youth Court/ Youth Bureau Social Justice Juvenile Diversion program. Her current role is to provide assistance to the Youth Court members and Coordinator, which includes preparing legal documents for Youth Court hearings, researching resources in the community for youth offenders and another essential task.

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