The Town of Hempstead recognized 12 individuals for contributions to their local communities at the Seventh Annual "Make A Difference" Awards ceremony held last week at Hempstead Town Hall. Among the recipients were Levittown residents Kenneth Auer and Helen Kelly.

"This is a very special evening for all of us, a time to reflect on the good in our local communities," said Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray. "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. They simply enjoy the satisfaction that comes from helping others."

From mentoring children to working in AIDS clinics and soup kitchens, the honorees 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.

Kenneth Auer was noted for making a difference in the lives of Levittown families for over 20 years, having a talent for making people, especially children and teenagers, feel they belong.

In 1976, Auer was involved in a motorcycle accident, while on the job as a New York City Police Officer. His recovery was long and arduous and he is now confined to a wheelchair. Auer took this unfortunate event and channeled his energy into a life of volunteerism and community activism. He not only coaches, but has served as a member of the board of directors for several youth organizations including the Levittown/Island Trees Youth Council, the Levittown High School Athletic Diamond Club and St. Bernard's Children's Youth Organization. Auer became the voice of high school athletes in Levittown, calling the play-by-play for several sports.

Auer's many volunteer activities in youth athletics branched over to education and community service. He became a member of the Levittown Board of Education, serving as its president for several years. Auer is also a member of the Levittown Kiwanis Club and the Levittown Community Council.

Although he has struggled with numerous health issues for the past few years, Auer's attitude remains upbeat and positive and he continues to be a driving force in his community. He is a role model for residents of all ages. Confronted with significant obstacles, Auer demonstrates that adversity can be turned into opportunity. For his endless commitment and dedication to youth and his community, Auer was presented with the 2003 Make A Difference Award.

This year's ceremony also honored Helen Kelly, an original Levittown homeowner. Kelly's life is a stunning tribute to selflessness and love for others. Seventy-six years young, Kelly prefers to be anonymous in her work. So much of what she does is known only to those blessed by her gracious deeds.

Kelly and her husband were among the original Levittown homeowners. Tragically, she was left to raise a young family when her husband was killed in an auto accident. With the exclusive responsibility of raising her family, she still found time to reach out to a variety of people in need. Much of the volunteer work Kelly has done is through her parish, St. Bernard's in Levittown, and with the Sisters of St. Joseph's, a religious order that serves all of Long Island.

Kelly has worked in soup kitchens, AIDS clinics and centers for abused persons. She has also worked with groups devoted to interracial justice, especially on Long Island. She is a volunteer host for inner city children who are invited to spend time with suburban families. She is a skilled gardener who has shared her knowledge and energy in the beautification of the Levittown Library and St. Bernard's Church. She has also presented her own floral arrangements as gifts to countless people.

Despite personal illness and family tragedy, Kelly has remained focused on helping others. For her caring and compassion that have made a difference beyond measure, Kelly was presented with the 2003 Make A Difference Award.

"While priorities have been reordered across our nation for the last two years, tonight's honorees have [been] helping neighbors, strangers and those less fortunate. Our award recipients have contributed to the well-being of others in such awe-inspiring ways that they are truly unique and deserve our admiration and gratitude," Murray said.

"You are our leaders, you have inspired us all, and you have made a profoundly positive impact on the lives of others," the supervisor added. "Moreover, you present the very best that Hempstead Town has to offer."