Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has recognized Suzanne Adler as the Citizen of the Month Award recipient for the month of December. Neuhaus selected Adler, a teacher at Smith Clove Elementary School in the Monroe-Woodbury School District, for her passionate work with Sparrow’s Nest, a 501(c)3 charity that cooks and delivers homemade meals to families who have had a loved one diagnosed with cancer. Adler, a Monroe-Woodbury graduate, is also beloved in the Monroe community for her many charitable contributions for less fortunate families and
those in need.
Neuhaus presented Adler a certificate of recognition on Monday, December 4, at Smith Clove Elementary.
“Suzanne is a wonderful woman and her contributions to the Monroe community have been inspirational,” Neuhaus said. “Guided by her kindness, Suzanne has worked tirelessly, and has had a positive impact on hundreds of Orange County residents. She is a selfless woman and we appreciate her dedication to the well-being of the residents of our County, especially in the Monroe community.”
Inspired by her own family experience, Adler and her husband, Micah, began volunteering with Sparrow’s Nest in 2016. Adler sets up fundraisers for meals families and Micah, a retired New York Police Department (NYPD) Officer, delivers them. Suzanne’s father died of cancer when she was a young girl and her cousin died after being diagnosed with the disease approximately seven years ago.
Adler volunteers at Sacred Heart Church in Monroe, where she organizes food and clothing drives. In addition, during the holidays, she sets up the collection of presents in her neighborhood for families that are less fortunate or struggling through difficult times. Adler also spearheads a variety of fundraisers for students at Smith Clove Elementary.
Adler's kindness and generosity has attracted national attention. She was recognized as a “Drew-Gooder” on The Drew Barrymore Show in October. Barrymore celebrates “the inspiring people doing good in the world” in the popular segment.
“There is always a need in our community and helping those in need is what makes me happy,” Adler said. “I grew up in a very modest family from the Bronx and that has influenced me. It is important that I remember that because at any moment it could be you or me. I just love to give back and I am lucky to be surrounded by family, friends and neighbors who want to do good.”
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County Executive Neuhaus read a story to Mrs. Adler's first grade class, presented Mrs. Adler with a certificate and enjoyed time with Smith Clove students.