Whitesboro, NY – This morning, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D–Utica/Rome) was honored with the prestigious Paul Dunn Advocacy Award during the Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. (CFLR) Annual Awareness Breakfast, held at Hart’s Hill Inn in Whitesboro. This annual signature event recognizes leaders and changemakers who support recovery and mental health awareness across the Mohawk Valley.
“I want to sincerely thank the Center for Family Life and Recovery for this incredible honor,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “Receiving the Paul Dunn Advocacy Award is deeply humbling. CFLR’s work is vital to so many families, and I am grateful to stand beside them in the fight to end stigma and strengthen the pathways to healing.”
This year’s breakfast theme, “Breaking the Silence: Stories that Defy Stigma,” served as a powerful reminder that mental health and substance use disorders impact individuals and families from all walks of life. The morning featured moving stories and imagery that captured the resilience and strength found in recovery.
Along with receiving an award, Assemblywoman Buttenschon took the opportunity to recognize another remarkable community leader. She had the distinct honor of presenting a New York State Assembly Citation to Ernest Lowenkopf, recipient of CFLR’s Amethyst Award.
Lowenkopf was honored for his enduring commitment to the well-being of youth and families through his work with CFLR and CNY Youth Connections, helping individuals overcome addiction and mental health struggles with compassion, guidance, and hope.
“A great state is only as great as its people, and Ernest Lowenkopf exemplifies the very best of our community,” said Buttenschon. “His tireless efforts to support individuals facing substance use and mental health challenges, especially our youth, remind us that no one should face recovery alone.” “It was my privilege to present Ernest with a New York State Assembly Citation in recognition of his service and leadership,” she continued. “He is a true advocate, and his work has left an immeasurable impact on the lives he touches. Congratulations, Ernest, you are so deserving of this award.”
The Paul Dunn Advocacy Award and Amethyst Award are presented annually by CFLR to recognize individuals who inspire hope, promote healing, and demonstrate extraordinary commitment to recovery and wellness in the community.
Assemblywoman Buttenschon remains a steadfast advocate for expanding access to mental health and recovery services, and proudly continues to support local organizations working to make a lasting difference.
To learn more about the Center for Family Life and Recovery or support their mission, visit http://www.whenthereshelpthereshope.com.
