Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray and the town board recognized 13 extraordinary community members, including Allison Rose of Garden City, for contributions to their local neighborhoods at the 11th Annual "Make A Difference" Awards ceremony.

"Tonight we pay homage to men and women who have touched the lives of so many in our township. These individuals have never looked for recognition or rewards for their hard work and dedication," Supervisor Murray said. "They simply enjoy the satisfaction that comes from helping others. Tonight we honor them and offer our thanks for all that they have done to improve the lives of others and to make our communities better places in which to live."

The honorees have all dedicated themselves to enriching the lives of others. Hundreds of nominations were received for the prestigious award. Those selected, Murray noted, have quietly carried out acts of selfless generosity for many years.

Allison Rose is a high school junior who began her volunteer work at an early age. As a child, she would help shovel the driveways of elderly neighbors. When she was a middle school student, Allison realized an elderly neighbor was having difficulty getting to the store and volunteered to run his errands for him.

Now as a student at Garden City High School, Allison is a member of TWIGS at the school, whereby she participates in fundraising activities for the pediatric wing at Winthrop University Hospital and visits the sick children. In addition, Allison is a member of Students Helping Students, an organization that encourages positive interactions among children in the community. In addition, this young lady volunteers with deaf children who have cochlear implants, teaching them to use the telephone. She uses her knowledge of sign language to help children with communications difficulties enjoy the Long Island Children's Museum where she volunteers.

Following in the footsteps of her sister, Caitlin, who was a 2004 Town of Hempstead Make a Difference recipient, Allison is truly a selfless and caring individual, who serves as a role model to all young people, Supervisor Murray added.

"Our Make A Difference Award recipients have made a profoundly positive impact on the lives of others," the supervisor continued. "While we can never hope to adequately repay these men and women for their efforts on behalf of those in need, we are honored to have this opportunity to thank them."