by Steve Bogdan, Content Creation Team Member

Each year, we honor New York State Legislators of the Year who exemplify a strong commitment to the Red Cross mission of preventing and alleviating human suffering during emergencies. This year, we were proud to honor Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner as Eastern New York’s Legislator of the Year.

Representing Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties, Assemblywoman Woerner has been a powerful advocate for our work—especially when it comes to the urgent need for blood and platelet donations. During her remarks, she shared a story about how platelet donations impacted her own family, reminding us all just how lifesaving these contributions truly are.

Photo: Jessica McNavich

“Assemblywoman Woerner has been an extraordinary partner to the Red Cross, championing our mission with a particular focus on one of our most critical needs: blood collection,” said Regional Chief Executive Officer Kevin Coffey. “At a time when hospitals across the state and nation face ongoing shortages, her advocacy has helped expand donation opportunities, raise awareness, and encourage more New Yorkers to give the gift of life.”

Assemblywoman Woerner’s impact reaches well beyond blood services. She remains a strong advocate for the Red Cross mission—supporting our volunteers, promoting preparedness initiatives, and helping ensure families receive compassionate care in times of crisis.

A special highlight of the day was the formal recognition by a New York State Senate Resolution proclaiming March as Red Cross Month.

As the resolution was read, state senators rose to share their experiences with the Red Cross, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to disaster preparedness and response within their respective districts.

Senator Christopher Ryan, who represents portions of Onondaga and Oswego counties, recognized Eastern New York volunteer Bobbie Krukowski, expressing gratitude for her years of service as a disaster duty officer. Since 2012, she has played a vital role in coordinating emergency responses and assisting New Yorkers in need. He highlighted her achievement in “building a capacity for volunteers for years to come” by creating a comprehensive mentoring model that trains new officers in effective response strategies.”

From supporting families following house fires to leading efforts during major disasters across the state, she has dedicated over 4,000 hours to helping New Yorkers through their most challenging times.

“Anytime we can recognize the amazing work our volunteers make to help alleviate human suffering it’s a good day, but having the opportunity to see the floor of the NY Senate standing and applauding Bobbie’s accomplishments it really is next level inspiring,” said Josh Moskowitz, Eastern New York Regional Disaster Officer