Five women from Yonkers have been honored as “Women of Distinction” during a City Hall ceremony marking Women’s History Month. Mayor Mike Spano presented the awards to the women whose achievements have improved the lives of others in the community and whose impact has changed Yonkers for the better.
“Women”™s History Month recognizes the historic accomplishments of women, and now it is Yonkers”™ turn to pay tribute to the local leaders who either live or work among us each day,” Spano said. “We are truly inspired by these women who continuously strive to make a difference among our residents.”
Michelle Benson was born and raised in Yonkers. She was honored for her philanthropic efforts through the Ronald McDonald House Charities with the Yonkers Fire Department to inspire children to appreciate what they have and how healthy they are. She has also done volunteer work with the Police Conference of New York during their backpack drives, turkey giveaways and feeding of the less fortunate.
Marilyn Lopez is the co-owner of the newly opened Yonkers Knockouts Boxing Team. She was honored for providing a sanctuary for Yonkers youth, helping them to develop skills while being uplifted and empowered. In addition, she has created an exercise program for Yonkers youth, including calisthenics and various cardio exercises. Yonkers Knockouts assists youth in controlling anger especially when faced with the anger of others.
Sade Gilcrest has done work with the YMCA, first as a youth leader for various programs and as a key player in the development of its Teen Center. She transitioned into the violence prevention program known as SNUG, helping the youth in Yonkers who had a history of violence. The award calls attention to her passion in helping the youth in Yonkers, defending their rights and in supporting opportunities available to them.
Alonda Hassell serves as co-pastor alongside her husband, Dr. James Hassell at the Kingdom Christian Cultural Center in Yonkers. She also is an author and soon to be a certified life coach. She provides talks on various subjects, with a focus on empowering women and helping them overcome various obstacles. She is a strong advocate for empowering women from various backgrounds to learn and grow together.
Celeste Hughes is one of six children in her family born and raised in Yonkers. She has been active in the scouts, serving as a den leader and cubmaster. She has helped develop an extensive and dynamic scouting program in Northeast Yonkers and at Annunciation Our Lady of Fatima Parish with Cub Scouts Pack 6 Crestwood. In addition to working with scouts she volunteers at a Yonkers food pantry.
