World AIDS Day calls on philanthropists around the globe to make a much-needed difference, and Westchester's Tony Lembeck - CEO of NAI Friedland Commercial Real Estate Services - has been recognized as someone making a difference.
New York State observed World AIDS Day on December 4th, and Lembeck received accolades from the state's commissioner of health for playing a pivotal role in the founding and operation of Camp Viva, a one-week sleep-away camp and year-round follow-up program for children and families in Westchester County affected by or infected with HIV/AIDS.
The program is facilitated by Family Services of Westchester.
Lembeck, lauded as an "Unknown Hero," was presented with the Commissioner's Special Recognition Award for his two decades of service to Camp Viva and the families it serves.
"Tony Lembeck was instrumental in the founding and remarkable 20-year history of Camp Viva," said officials with the Commissioner's office. "Utilizing the knowledge gleaned from his years as a camp director, Tony provided guidance in establishing a structure similar to the typical camp experience but with a therapeutic aspect to ensure the most beneficial experience for those with special needs. The Camp Viva team has been able to garner enough volunteers and private contributions to keep the program going with over 2,000 campers served."
"More than 197,000 New Yorkers have been diagnosed with AIDS, and more than 130,000 individuals in the State are currently living with HIV/AIDS," added New York State Commissioner of Health Nirav Shah. "Through the observance of World AIDS Day, we are raising awareness of the disease and encouraging community members to engage in an open dialogue that will reduce the fear and stigma attached to it."
Lembeck, who sits on several charitable boards, also works within the business community to promote charitable giving and volunteerism. "Volunteers are the key to our success," he said. "The campers' experience has always been directly related to the staff we are able to bring together." Tags: