The recent designation of a local woman as a pioneer in women's achievement did more than honor a respected member of the community. It shed a bit of light on the presence of Farmingdale's poor, and the work that is being done to help this largely invisible population.

Lisa Molluso, director of St. Kilian's Social Ministry/Outreach, was among a select group of women who last month received the Nassau County Legislature's "Women: Trailblazers to the New Millenium" Award. The non-profit human service program, which for over a decade has served the needy of Farmingdale regardless of race, religion, age, gender or ethnic origin, helped over 1,000 individuals and families in 1998.

Molluso, 30, was nominated for the award by Rev. Msgr. Charles W. Swiger, pastor of St. Kilian Parish. In a letter to County Legislator Salvatore Pontillo recommending her for the honor, Msgr. Swiger described her as "a woman of the present and future" who "has a rare gift and charisma to be able to interact with all constituency levels" and, as one who does so with credibility, passion and warmth.

In a recent interview, Msgr. Swiger said that Molluso's talents have fostered much growth in the Social Ministry. "She's really brought the programs forward to a higher level of visibility," he said. "The other people were pioneers and they had a lot to overcome. But she's been able to take the resources that we have and really let them go."

Molluso is an advocate for the poor not only on a personal level, but also on a political one. She has done this through involvement with peace and justice organizations, and the New York State Catholic Conference, using particularly her public speaking and writing skills.

A resident of Patchogue, Molluso oversees about 80 volunteers. "They all love her, and they all work for her and with her, and respect her," said Msgr. Swiger.

Services provided by outreach, which Molluso has headed for two years, include a comprehensive information and referral system, advocacy and informal counseling, employment assistance and bi-lingual case management. The program also donates emergency food and financial assistance to those in need, as well as a transportation program - the St. Kilian's Outreach Van. Pro bono legal assistance is also available through a network of volunteer attorneys.

The outreach director has made both children and the elderly top priorities. Programs specially geared for children include the collection of Christmas gifts for about 350 children in the community, child immunizations and a summer camp. For the elderly, outreach has hosted an annual free flu shot program, benefiting approximately 700 senior citizens per year. As a member of the Farmingdale Adult Day Care Board of Directors, Molluso collaborates with other community leaders to provide a day program for those suffering from Alzheimer's and dementia. In addition, the St. Kilian's Outreach Van last year gave over 3,000 free rides to Farmingdale residents who attend it.

Molluso has also worked to unravel misperceptions about the Hispanic community in Farmingdale, according to Msgr. Swiger. "There's a lot of anxiousness and fear on the part of people, regarding the Hispanic community. She's certainly made efforts at that more than anybody else I think, in terms of working on committees," he said.

The award recipient reacted to the honor with a mix of modesty and gratitude. "It really, really is an honor. To be included with such accomplished women, who have achieved so much in their lives - it was definitely an honor," she said, adding that the award, to her pleasing, has brought exposure to the role of the outreach program. "Anything that we can do that brings light to the work that we do - and those that we serve every day - is great."

Legislator Pontillo, in a release to the press, noted that he was proud to join fellow legislators in recognizing the accomplishments of women throughout Nassau County. "As the new millennium approaches, it's about time we recognize these women trailblazers," he said. "I am delighted with the selection of Lisa Molluso for this outstanding award. Not only is Lisa a diligent community activist, she is an excellent role model."