Celebrating the recognition of social service leaders
In the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the 3 West Club played host to the "Above & Beyond Social Services: Recognizing New York's Leaders in the Social Services Sector" awards ceremony on Tuesday. The event, sponsored by Neighborhood SHOPP, Carey & Co, Lantern Community Services, Services for the Underserved, The Arc Westchester, BronxWorks, BTQ Financial, Help USA, the Human Services Council, and the NYU Silver School of Social Work at the bronze level, honoured 54 social service workers for their exceptional contributions to the state.
The evening began with Phenix Kim serving as the emcee, guiding the audience through a night of recognition and inspiration. The keynote speech was delivered by New York State Office of Children & Family Services Commissioner DaMia Harris-Madden, who emphasised the selfless service that each honoree embodies.
Harris-Madden noted, "Serving others is a calling that all of you share, and you fulfill it with open hearts."
New York City Department of Social Services Commissioner Molly Wasow Park followed with a second keynote speech, sharing a quote from the late Rep. Shirley Chisholm: "Service is the rent you pay for the privilege of living on this earth." Wasow Park expressed her personal struggles with federal budget cuts and a growing lack of empathy in society, but called on the honorees to find strength and work together to create a more equitable system for the future.
Among the honorees were Katie Bower, Chief Housing and Shelter Officer, recognised for her commitment to housing as a right and trauma-informed care, impacting over 2,100 New Yorkers nightly. Maria Lizardo, Executive Director, was also acknowledged as one of the 2025 Above & Beyond Social Services honorees.
The full list of all 54 honorees was published by City & State on August 4, but their names are not provided explicitly in the search results. To see the complete list, contacting City & State or accessing their official publication would be necessary.
Javier Gomez of HANAC's Legal Immigration Assistance Program was inspired to continue working hard for others after being recognised. Monika Estrada Guzman of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital found the event surreal and emphasised the importance of their work in a pivotal time.
As the night concluded, the honorees left the event feeling more inspired and empowered to continue uplifting their communities and clients. The "Above & Beyond Social Services" awards ceremony was a testament to the tireless work and exceptional character of New York's social service professionals and leaders, dedicated to improving the city through innovative practices, advocacy, and community support.
In the midst of the event's recognition of exceptional social service workers, Javier Gomez of HANAC's Legal Immigration Assistance Program, was inspired to continue his work, following his acknowledgment. Health-and-wellness was further highlighted by Monika Estrada Guzman of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, who emphasized the importance of their work in the current times, particularly for mental health.
