Do you know a senior who is making or has made a positive difference in Westchester County through their professional life, volunteer work or both?

 Maybe they head an environmental, arts or civic organization or a business.  Or perhaps they volunteer at a hospital, after-school program, charity or other non-profit.

 If so, Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino invites you to nominate them to the Westchester Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, now in its 31st year.

 "The Hall of Fame is a special tradition that honors seniors who have given their time and energy to improve the quality of life in their communities or the county at large," Astorino said. "Don't miss this great opportunity to shine a spotlight on people who merit special recognition for their contributions."

Those selected will be inducted into the Senior Hall of Fame at a festive luncheon on Friday, Dec. 6 in the Grand Ballroom at the Westchester Marriott Hotel.

Nominees are required to be at least 60 years old, live in Westchester and not be a past Hall of Fame honoree. They must also be an outstanding leader or advocate whose contributions have improved the quality of life for people of any age. Nominations based on paid professional work must reflect innovative solutions to fulfilling unmet community needs.      

Please keep in mind that we are looking for more than biographical facts.   We would also like an anecdote that shows why that person is unique.

Nomination deadline extended
The deadline for submitting a Senior Hall of Fame Nomination has been extended to Friday, Sept. 20.

Please submit your nominations online at www.westchestergov.com/seniors. A list of past inductees is there as well.  Or, if you prefer to mail your nomination, please contact Annette Alve at or call her at (914) 813-6414.                         

Gala sponsors are the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS), Westchester County Parks and the Westchester Public/Private Partnership for Aging Services.

DSPS Commissioner Mae Carpenter said that seniors have helped Westchester to be known for its renowned quality of life

"Westchester County did not become the Golden Apple only because of its beautiful and wondrous greenery, rocks and rivers," she said. "Today's older generation molded a way of life that reflects the caring and generosity of its people."

All nominations will be reviewed by a judging committee of past Senior Hall of Fame honorees, members from DSPS' Aging Network, the county's Senior Council and the Older Americans Act Advisory Council.