New York State Senate Honors Betty Cooper Wallerstein at Women of Distinction Ceremony

(Albany, NY)—On Tuesday, June 2nd, the New York State Senate honored "Women of Distinction" from across New York State.  Nominated by Senator Liz Krueger, the Upper East Side's Betty Cooper Wallerstein was one of the women honored.

"I have had the privilege and honor of working with Betty on numerous issues and without a doubt her hard work and dedication have  made the East Side a better place to live for all," said Senator Liz Krueger.  "Her many years volunteering to improve the lives of her neighbors truly make her a Woman of Distinction."

Mrs. Wallerstein successfully led the 10 year fight to save the City and Suburban Homes York Avenue estates.  Built in the early years of the 20th century, City and Suburban is an early example of enlightened housing for the urban working class, and thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Wallerstein, they continue to provide affordable housing for 1,336 families.

Since 1984, Mrs. Wallerstein has served as president of the East 79th Street Neighborhood Association, which she co-founded that year.  Under her leadership, the Association now represents 40 blocks, and serves an essential role in improving the quality of life of the community.  Over the years, the Association has succeeded in improving transportation and sanitation services, beautifying the area by having over 150 trees planted, bringing a post office to the “far east side,” and working with the police precinct to train 2500 block walkers and 500 drug buster volunteers.  This year, Mrs. Wallerstein is retiring from the presidency of the association, after a quarter century of service.

Mrs. Wallerstein is a graduate of Goucher College and Hunter School of Social Work.  Over the years, she worked as a clinical social worker for the New York City Public Schools, Jewish Family Services, and the Jewish Board of Guardians.

 

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