admroarnycAugust 13, 2024
Reach Out and Read of Greater New York Announces 2024 Medical Professional Award Winners
Honoring Exceptional Contributions to Child Health and Literacy
New York, NY – Reach Out and Read of Greater New York (ROR GNY), a nonprofit organization that prepares young children to succeed in school by partnering with doctors to prescribe books and encourage families to bond by reading together, is proud to announce the recipients of its 2024 Medical Professional Awards. These awards recognize outstanding medical professionals and coordinators who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the health, literacy, and well-being of children and families across New York.
This year’s honorees exemplify the mission and values of ROR GNY, championing health equity and early literacy within their communities.
Health Equity Advocate Award: Addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)
Dr. Mary McCord, MD, MPH, from NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health / Sydenham, has been recognized for her pioneering efforts in implementing comprehensive screenings for social determinants of health, significantly improving patient care by addressing housing, nutrition, and educational barriers.
Advocate for Diverse Books Award
The Floating Hospital, DHS-LIC, has earned this award for its steadfast commitment to providing a diverse array of high-quality books to children, ensuring representation and fostering critical conversations about race and diversity within their community.
Jack Pace: Living Breathing ROR GNY Award
Dr. Amy Woolever has been honored for her unwavering dedication to maintaining the ROR GNY program at NYC Health + Hospitals/ Elmhurst Hospital demonstrating remarkable perseverance and innovative problem-solving through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and severe weather conditions.
Trusted Messenger Award
Jennifer Chase from Mount Sinai Pediatric School-Based Health Centers has been celebrated for her ability to build lasting, trust-based relationships with her patients and their families, offering reliable health information and support that make her a trusted partner in her community.
Whole Family Advocate Award
- Suzanne Dougan of Brookdale Family Care Center has been recognized for her holistic approach in connecting families with crucial resources beyond the ROR GNY program, empowering parents and caregivers to support their children’s overall health and well-being effectively.
- Montefiore Medical Center Bronx Health Collective has been awarded for their exceptional integration of comprehensive family support services, creating a nurturing and resourceful environment that addresses the diverse needs of the families they serve.
New Champion Coordinator Award
Dr. Krupa Hart from B Urban Health Plan has distinguished herself by embracing her role as a site coordinator with enthusiasm and dedication, ensuring a seamless and robust continuation of the ROR program and fostering strong relationships with the ROR GNY team.
“We are incredibly honored to recognize these extraordinary individuals and organizations who have demonstrated unparalleled dedication to our mission,” said Dr. Leora Mogilner, Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Director of Advocacy for the Department of Pediatrics at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Dr. Mogilner also serves as the Medical Director and Board Member of Reach Out and Read of Greater New York. “Their efforts have made a profound impact on the lives of children and families, and they continue to inspire us with their commitment to health equity and early literacy.”
The awards will be presented at Reach Out and Read of Greater New York’s 25th Anniversary Annual Benefit titled “25 Years & Counting: A Book for Every Child” on October 9, 2024, at City Winery in New York City. The event is the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting its mission to integrate books and early literacy guidance into pediatric care for young New Yorkers. Tickets for the benefit will go on sale to the general public in summer 2024.
For more information about the benefit event, to purchase tickets, or to learn more about Reach Out and Read of Greater New York, please visit www.reachoutandreadnyc.org.
Contact:
Reach Out and Read of Greater New York
Kari Kurjiaka
Email: kkurjiaka@reachoutandreadnyc.org
Phone: 646-893-7333
About Reach Out and Read of Greater New York:
Reach Out and Read of Greater New York is a nonprofit organization that prepares young children for success in school and life by incorporating books into pediatric care and encouraging families to read aloud together. Serving over 250,000 children annually in New York, they partner with pediatric care providers to provide books and support for families, fostering a lifelong love of reading and learning.