Rich has been a special education teacher for more than 15 years at Arlington High School. He teaches a special American History course for students with disabilities as well as co-teaching ninth-grade Global History in an ICT model. Rich is the most patient and equanimous teacher students say they have ever worked with. He never shows frustration and is always kind and understanding of any obstacles the students might be facing. He frequently brings his students on field trips to expose them to places they might not otherwise have the opportunity to visit -- whether it’s the Tenement House Museum in New York or a Buddhist monastery. In addition to his commitment in the classroom, Rich also founded and now coaches a unified basketball team at Arlington, one of the first such teams in the region. The players on his team have, for the most part, never played basketball before, and Rich teaches them the fundamentals of the game and gives them an opportunity to be a part of something bigger than themselves.

The Leperas have first-hand experience with the Ronald McDonald House as they stayed with us for 52 nights while their teenage daughter, Jennie, ferociously battled cancer. They often reflect on their time here, and knew right away they wanted to give back to honor Jennie's memory and to provide families like theirs with the experience they had. Every month on the 15th, the day of Jennie's passing, the Leperas come to the Ronald McDonald House to cook a meal for our guests and for the nurses that took such great care of their daughter before she passed at the tender age of 18. In the past year they have provided home-cooked meals for more than 500 families. Additionally, they have started a foundation in Jennie's name which also provides resources to families in similar situations and financial support to our house. They tirelessly give back to the community, and have turned their grief into inspiration for others.

Melinda exemplifies the motto “service above self!” Anyone that knows her can tell you that she will give the shirt off her back or her bed for anyone in need. She finds the needs in the community and develops a plan to help reduce the stress or resolve an issue. Melinda works hard at taking care of everyone she comes in contact with as if they were her immediate family. She spearheaded programs to provide warm coats for children, rebuilding a family after a devastating fire with a fundraiser and replacing all belongings, and relocating a displaced family in a home after loss of employment. That also included getting new beds for four children, and delivering food to those who need at the Fishkill Food Pantry. Melinda is also a Christmas miracle worker -- she brings the magic of Christmas to more than 50 children every year through her volunteer work.

Gina has a proven track record of dedication, service, and commitment to the community. Her establishment of the non-profit Earth Angels Believe Foundation has raised over $50,000 since 2019, and more than $250,000 for the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life. Foundation members continue to do the annual butterfly release for Patterson Relay for Life. She is a constant presence in the community, raising awareness and funds for local families affected by cancer with events such as game nights, wine tastings, dinners with live music, silent auctions, tag sales, and raffles. Funds raised help to cover medical bills, food, clothes and travel for those affected by cancer. As an educator for over 25 years Gina continues to make a lasting impact on those around her and is well deserving of this recognition.

Sgt. Alonzo Montanya demonstrates an unwavering commitment to service, dedication, and community engagement. His career is a testament to his profound dedication to public safety and community welfare. With a distinguished tenure as a school resource officer, Sgt. Montanya has profoundly impacted the lives of countless students, fostering a safe and supportive educational environment. His role as lead advisor for the PBA explorer program further highlights his dedication to mentoring and shaping the next generation of law enforcement professionals. Sgt. Montanya's mentorship has not only guided aspiring officers but also instilled values of integrity, discipline, and public service. Sgt. Montanya is also co-lead instructor for first responders in resilience and wellness for Dutchess County. Sgt. Montanya’s extensive experience and commitment are evident in his daily interactions with the community: He consistently goes above and beyond to assist others, investing his time and talent to address the needs of those around him. He volunteers countless hours to community youth programs in Dutchess County. Additionally, helps several charities like Special Olympics New York, Sparrow’s Nest, and First Help during his free time. Sgt. Montanya has run the NYC Marathon twice for charity, and ran the Chicago Marathon in 2023 to help raise awareness for First Responder Suicide. Over the past five years, he has raised or assisted with charity events that have raised over $1,000,000.

Chris’ entire life is dedicated to public service and emergency services. In addition to working as a Communication Supervisor for the City of Poughkeepsie Police, he has been a NYS EMT for over 21 years and a member of the fire service for 25 years, currently serving as a Lieutenant in the Roosevelt Fire District in Hyde Park. He currently serves as the Public Education and Fire Safety Director as well for the Roosevelt Fire District, educating thousands of children and adults on how to be fire safe in the Hyde Park community. Chris has tirelessly dedicated his time and continues to do so through many different avenues including the Hudson Valley Guns & Hoses and Roosevelt Fire District. Whether it’s planning and executing events to raise money for the HVGNH Scholarships or Organizing Fire Safety events in the community, Chris does it with the most dignity and grace. Never looking for any sort of validation or recognition, Chris’ passion is giving back to the local community he is so proud to call home.