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Outstanding Seniors Recognized For Contributions 

Legislator Sheridan: ‘The Precedent They Have Set Reminds
Us That True Greatness Lies In Selflessness’

Elena Lavalas & Tom Gilbert Presented With Distinguished Service Awards

 The  incredible  contributions  of  two  senior  citizens  were  acknowledged during a special program led by Rockland County Legislator Raymond W. Sheridan III in the Legislative Chambers.

“It is my pleasure and honor to recognize two extraordinary individuals, Elena Lavalas and Tom Gilbert, whose lives have been defined by service, compassion, and unwavering generosity,” Legislator Sheridan said. “Through decades of dedication, they have not only uplifted those around them but have also inspired a  legacy  of  giving  that  will  endure  for  generations.  The  precedent  they  have  set  reminds  us  that  true greatness lies in selflessness.”

Elena was cited for Outstanding Contribution By A Senior Citizen and Tom was cited as Senior Of The Year. Legislator Sheridan presented each honoree with the Distinguished Service Award, the Legislature’s
highest honor.

Considering  her  extensive  career  as  a  compassionate  and  devoted  nurse,  perhaps  it  should  come  as  no surprise that Elena would embrace volunteering so whole-heartedly.

Elena earned her degree from the City University of New York in 1973 and worked at several hospitals before joining Rockland Psychiatric Hospital. She also earned a certification in Gerontology/Mental Health from Utica College in 1985.

Elena has been deeply involved with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), where she has served as a board member and in other positions, and where she teaches the Family-to-Family class, co-leads support groups, and serves on the Legislative Advocacy Committee.

Her long record of volunteer work includes leadership roles with several community organizations and she continues  to  teach  lifesaving  skills  as  a  CPR  instructor.  Elena  is  a  devoted  wife,  mother  of  three,  and grandmother of four.

Tom has devoted his life to serving others with kindness and generosity. Whether driving someone to an appointment or picking up a prescription, he’s always ready to help.

At 85, he remains active - teaching 5th-grade religious studies, performing with the Tappan Players, and singing in the Clarkstown Senior Show.

A  proud  father,  grandfather,  and  great-grandfather,  Tom  worked  as  a  credit  manager  and  collections supervisor.  He  has  lived  in  Rockland  County  for  45  years  and  shares  his  life  with  his  significant  other, Glenda, for the last 33 years.

He volunteers with the Office for the Aging, Catholic Charities, and Meals on Wheels and shows no signs of slowing down.

Both outstanding seniors were chosen through a process overseen by the county Office for the Aging.

Rockland County Legislator Raymond W. Sheridan III presented Elena Lavalas and Tom Gilbert with the Distinguished Service Award, the Legislature’s highest honor,  in recognition of their contributions.

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