J 1140: Honoring Allison Lake upon the completion of her tenure after 25 years of dedicated service to Westchester Children's Association

 Senate Resolution No. 1140 BY: Senator STEWART-COUSINS HONORING Allison Lake upon the completion of her tenure after 25 years of dedicated service to Westchester Children's Association WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge those individuals whose professional lives and civic endeavors serve to enhance the stature of the State of New York; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Allison Lake upon the completion of her tenure after 25 years of dedicated service to Westchester Children's Association; she will be recognized at a heartfelt celebration at Harrison Meadows Country Club in Harrison, New York, on Wednesday, June 4, 2025; and WHEREAS, For the past 25 years, Allison Lake rendered faithful, conscientious and valuable service to Westchester Children's Association; and WHEREAS, Founded in 1914, Westchester Children's Association is the oldest independent child advocacy organization in New York State; the organization works diligently to ensure that every child is healthy, safe, and prepared for life's challenges by promoting smart policies, strong partnerships, and community accountability; and WHEREAS, Allison Lake has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the children and families of Westchester County throughout her decades of able leadership, serving in the esteemed roles of deputy director (2008-2018) and executive director (2018-2025) of the association; and WHEREAS, With a true love for her work, Allison Lake has been a passionate force for equity and opportunity and has led initiatives that have transformed child and family outcomes across the county; and WHEREAS, In her capacity as Executive Director, Allison Lake always served with loyalty, honor and distinction; and WHEREAS, From championing access to health insurance and education, to securing resources during the COVID-19 pandemic for digital access and remote learning, Allison Lake has proven herself to be a resourceful, selfless, and invaluable asset to Westchester Children's Association; and WHEREAS, Allison Lake's legacy includes spearheading the association's leadership role in the successful passage of New York State's Raise the Age Law, ensuring youth under 18 are no longer prosecuted as adults; and WHEREAS, A testament to her successful leadership and achievement, Allison Lake was appointed to serve on the New York State Child Poverty Reduction Advisory Council, where she works passionately shaping policy for the benefit of future generations; and WHEREAS, In her official acts, Allison Lake was governed by a keen sense of duty and always showed a unique grasp of human problems; and WHEREAS, During her time with Westchester Children's Association, Allison Lake earned the admiration, esteem, and affection of her colleagues; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Allison Lake upon the completion of her tenure after 25 years of dedicated service to Westchester Children's Association; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Allison Lake.