In recognition of their exceptional service, Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) will honor nine outstanding individuals who unselfishly give of their time and energy to help those less fortunate or in need. This will be an opportunity to express our deep appreciation as a community for their tireless efforts.

“These are true heroes whose social activism, caliber of personal and/or professional commitment has distinguished them. They are role models who have created a new standard for all of us to follow in community and/or government service. They make a difference in the lives of so many, having changed realities and facts on the ground, collectively for tens of thousands of people. What we are recognizing and honoring, is the power of one dedicated individual to change the world around him or her. That is the essence of activism and service. These are the stars of our community and government.

The honorees include: Rabbi Moshe Wiener of the JCC of Coney Island; Motty Katz, Coordinator of the Boro Park Shomrim Security Patrol; Pesach Greenberg, President of Yad Ephraim; Rafi Hazzan, Founder of Bnai Raphael Chesed Organization; Shimshon Heszkel of Mekimi Cheer-Up Squad; Esther Friedman of Zichron Shlomo Refuah Fund; Florence Gruen, Community hero; and Judith Ball and Joanne McGrath of the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
 
“Florence Gruen has opened her heart and home to severely handicapped children, nurturing over 40 displaced and disabled children over the course of 20 years. She has formally adopted three developmentally disabled daughters when told they would have to be removed, as per foster parent policy. She raised them in addition to raising her own five biological sons. Chavie, her adopted daughter, will be performing a piano recital at the event. Esther Friedman distributes her own home-cooked food to patients in hospitals every Sabbath. Motty Katz, Boro Park Shomrim, rushed to the Twin Towers on 9/11 to aid in rescue efforts. He was rescued by the fire department. He works with schools giving lectures on preventing molestation and kidnapping. Shimshon Heskel’s Mekimi Cheer-Up Squad recruits musicians, singers, magicians and comedians to go to patients in hospitals and at their homes to provide entertainment. He also has a lending library of DVDs, CDs and tapes to keep patients busy and happy.
 
“These individuals have proven that you can make a dramatic difference in the lives of people, if you take the initiative and personally commit yourself to an excellence of spirit. You will be inspired. Come and join us to salute their extraordinary sense of community and selfless commitment to the greater good.”

DATE: Wednesday, October 17th
TIME: 6:30 P.M.
PLACE: Boro Park Y, 4910 14th Avenue, Borough Park, Brooklyn
 
Light refreshments will be served.