County Executive Robert P. Astorino announced that two co-founders of The Bravehearts, a youth group benefiting children in the Westchester County foster care system, have been selected to receive the Rosemarie Siragusa Memorial Youth Service Award. Jessica Grimm, of Yonkers, and Kaylene Quinones, of Dobbs Ferry, were recognized during a ceremony on Nov. 18 in the press room of the County Office Building.
"The Rosemarie Siragusa Award recognizes dedicated residents who give back to our youth in the true spirit of community service," Astorino said. "Jessica Grimm and Kaylene Quinones both embody the spirit of this award by giving so generously of their time and energy on behalf of all the young people in foster care."
The Bravehearts M.O.V.E. (Motivating Others through the Voice of Experience) NY – better known simply as The Bravehearts – is a youth movement under the auspices of Family Ties of Westchester. It is led by young people who have been raised in the Westchester County foster care system, and who are now working alongside professionals in county government and nonprofit agencies to help bring about positive change.
In October 2013, the Bravehearts began as a core group of four. To date, there are now more than 175 Bravehearts participating in local peer-to-peer groups, with meetings held every Friday night in Yonkers.
The Rosemarie Siragusa Award is presented each year in memory of the founder and chairwoman of the Westchester County Youth Board. For over 25 years, Siragusa volunteered as an advocate for youth, particularly in the area of education. She was involved in the local, county and state levels of the PTA, and served as president of the Yonkers Council of PTAs. Siragusa also served on the Yonkers Board of Education.
"The Youth Bureau is pleased to recognize these two young women for all they do to empower our youth," said Iris Pagan, executive director, Westchester County Youth Bureau. "Being raised in foster care comes with its own unique set of challenges, but thanks to the Bravehearts, there is extra support and guidance."