St. Vincent’s Hospital Westchester, a division of Saint Joseph’s Medical Center, and the Auxiliary Board of St. Vincent’s Hospital Westchester celebrated the winners of the 34th Annual Youth Awards, recognizing 20 high school students for their exceptional volunteer service and commitment to St. Vincent’s values.
Approximately 100 supporters, including students’ families, high school guidance counselors, and school representatives, attended the event on March 25. In addition to receiving the St. Vincent’s Youth Award, honorees were presented with U.S. Congressional Certificates of Achievement.
Deborah Blatt delivered the keynote address. Ms. Blatt, Founder and Executive Director of The Sharing Shelf, a Port Chester, NY-based organization established in 2009 to provide clothing and basic necessities to children and teens in need. A former attorney, Blatt created the non-profit to address clothing insecurity in Westchester County, often featuring a “Teen Boutique” for dignity in shopping. Reflecting on her dedication to philanthropy and community service, she shared with the students her accomplishments and encouraged them to continue making a difference in their community.
The St. Vincent’s Annual Youth Awards was established in 1993 by the Auxiliary Board of St. Vincent’s Hospital Westchester to recognize young people who support St. Vincent’s values and to promote lifelong patterns of volunteerism. Each year, the awards honor students from area high schools whose service best exemplifies these values.