New York Liberty Award

NEW ROCHELLE (May 9, 2002) Cross-Cultural Solutions Executive Director Steve Rosenthal of New Rochelle has been recognized with the New York State Senate Liberty Award "for selfless contributions during the terrorist attacks" of September 11th.

Rosenthal and his staff volunteered at the former World Trade Center in the week after the disaster and eventually coordinated over 6,500 volunteers to help out in New York City. The volunteers served over 10,000 meals to rescue workers, assisted victims' families, sorted through donations, helped with translation, did counseling, completed paperwork and more.

Traditionally, Cross-Cultural Solutions had been an international volunteering organization, sending volunteers overseas for a few weeks or months to do humanitarian work in health care, education and community development. But when such a great need arose in Rosenthal's own hometown, he says, he felt it was his duty to get involved.

"I was proud to accept this award on behalf of everyone at Cross-Cultural Solutions," Rosenthal commented.

The Liberty Award recognizes citizens for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts and achievements. There is no more prestigious award bestowed on civilians in New York.

The Senator who bestowed the awards on last year's recipients explained, "The Liberty Award may be likened to the national Congressional Gold Medal."

Senator Nicolas Spano presented Rosenthal with a certificate and a gold medal on May 9, 2002. "Your altruistic spirit is inspirational," Spano told award recipients. "You should know that you are now an important piece of history. As we reflect on this tragedy in the years to come, I will remember you and your selfless efforts ... Thank you for everything you felt compelled to do on September 11th."