Honored social service champions celebrated
In the heart of Midtown Manhattan, on a Tuesday evening, the 3 West Club played host to the "Above & Beyond Social Services: Recognizing New York's Leaders in the Social Services Sector" awards ceremony. This event, associated with City & State's "Above & Beyond: Social Services" power list, was a celebration of the tireless efforts of 54 hardworking social service workers who have dedicated their careers to improving the lives of New Yorkers[1][5].
New York State Office of Children & Family Services Commissioner DaMia Harris-Madden delivered the keynote remarks, sharing insights into the challenges faced by the social services field[4]. She acknowledged the turbulent times and expressed concerns over federal budget cuts, and more significantly, the growing feeling that empathy for others seems to be waning[6].
Commissioner Molly Wasow Park of the New York City Department of Social Services also delivered a keynote speech, expressing faith in the honorees, their organizations, and their teams to do the hard work together[3]. She called on the honorees to find strength and comfort in the fact that they're not alone in the struggle, and encouraged them to find opportunity during hard times to create an even more equitable system for the future[7].
City & State and New York Nonprofit Media correspondent Phenix Kim served as emcee for the ceremony[8]. The honorees, who work in various capacities, from providing fresh-cooked meals to families, to operating programs to help the recently incarcerated rejoin their communities, and advocating for governmental funding for mental health care, left the event feeling even more inspired and empowered to continue uplifting their communities and clients[9].
Some of the honorees, like Katie Bower, Chief Housing and Shelter Officer, were recognized for their work impacting over 2,100 New Yorkers nightly with a focus on client-centered, trauma-informed care[2]. Maria Lizardo, Executive Director, was also acknowledged as one of the 2025 Above & Beyond Social Services honorees[3].
The full list of all 54 honorees, along with detailed profiles, can be found in City & State NY’s Power Lists (August 4, 2025 publication). For direct access, the City & State platform or their official announcement on August 4, 2025, would have the comprehensive list of honorees[1][5].
This event was more than just an awards ceremony; it was a testament to the resilience and dedication of New York's social service workers and a reminder of the significant impact they have on the lives of countless New Yorkers.
Science plays a vital role in the health-and-wellness of New York's social service workers, as they strive to implement trauma-informed care in their service delivery. The tireless efforts of these workers have led to improvements in mental health services, which are crucial for the overall well-being of the individuals they serve.
