After being diagnosed with cancer, I began walking more—initially for my health, but it quickly became a mission. I couldn't help but notice how much litter was scattered across our beautiful city of Glen Cove, especially along Shore Road, a waterfront area filled with promise, history, and community. I felt a deep urge to not just heal my body, but to help heal my surroundings.

So, I picked up a trash bag and started cleaning. What began as a solitary walk with purpose quickly turned into a movement. I founded the Shore Road Neighbors Group, and today, I'm proud to also serve as Chair of the Glen Cove Beautification Commission. Together with local volunteers, youth groups, city staff, and neighbors, we've tackled litter, built gardens, beautified neglected spaces, and brought real joy and beauty to our community.

My inspiration is deeply personal, too—my husband Bruce Kennedy, a tireless civic leader and problem-solver, inspires me every day. Ironically, I met him through this very work. What started as improvements to the two local communities (Glen Cove & Sea Cliff) became the beginning of a journey we now share both personally and in service to others.

This work reminds me that being American means showing up for each other. It’s not about grand gestures—it’s the quiet, persistent acts of care that ripple out and make a lasting impact. It makes me happy to make others happy—and in doing so, I found my voice, my purpose, and my partner.