MONTICELLO, NY — The Kiwanis Club of Monticello presented its Everyday Hero Award to Aileen Gunther in July, recognizing her distinguished service to her constituents and for going above and beyond the call of duty.

Gunther was first elected to the New York State Assembly in 2003 after the untimely death of her husband, Assemblyman Jacob Gunther. 

Using her training as a nurse, including infection control, she has become an informed and experienced legislator and has continually been a compassionate and fierce advocate for the people she represents in the 100th District, regardless of their party affiliation, the press release said.

“Our Everyday Hero Award is our way to say thank you for what you do every day, including weekends and holidays, to improve education for all children, remove the stigma of mental illness, support youth programs, school and hospital funding, fire and police departments and local organizations like our Kiwanis Club,” said Marvin Rappaport, Monticello Kiwanis Club president. “You are always sending notes thanking us for our continued community service. Now it is our turn to thank you for your dedication and drive to help make our community a better place to live, work and raise a family.” 

Gunther thanked the club and added, “It is a truly special honor.” 

Kiwanis is a service organization of local volunteers, dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. For further information visit Monticello NY Kiwanis Club Facebook page.

Contributed by the Kiwanis Club of Monticello.