Westchester celebrates Women’s History Month with honors for Kirklin and New Dawn

WESTCHESTER, N.Y. - The Westchester County Board of Legislators recognized Women’s History Month recently with a ceremony honoring two inspirational community leaders: Caitlin Kirklin and New Dawn Family Resource Center.

The former is a volunteer and longtime health advocate for women and children while the latter is a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources for victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault, elder abuse, and human trafficking.

Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) opened the White Plains ceremony by saying that the honorees’ “dedication and advocacy have made a meaningful and lasting impact on women and families.”

“Celebrating Women’s History Month reminds us of the importance of spotlighting women’s leadership and ensuring that their accomplishments receive the acknowledgment and support they deserve,” he added.

Legislator Jenn Puja (D–White Plains, Scarsdale, West Harrison) praised Kirklin for her ability to turn “personal challenges into a force for good” and for “finding light in difficult moments.”

“Her advocacy with March of Dimes, The Tiny Miracles Foundation, and White Plains Hospital, combined with her long-standing PTA and community involvement, exemplifies leadership, resilience, and inspiration,” Puja said.

Legislator Erika L. Pierce (D–Bedford, Lewisboro, Mount Kisco, North Salem, Pound Ridge, Somers) called New Dawn Family Resource Center – led by its board president, Lynn Borsellino – a “vital support hub in Northern Westchester.”

“As we recognize Women’s History Month, we must acknowledge the critical role women often play in holding up other women, and New Dawn’s peer-to-peer survivor support program is a very powerful example of the importance of those efforts,” Pierce said, thanking the organization “for the work they do for women and families.”