HELMING HONORS DONNA SCHAERTL AS 2017 “WOMAN OF DISTINCTION”

New York State Senator Pamela A. Helming (R,C,I-Canandaigua) was proud to announce that Donna Schaertl of Shortsville has been selected as a 2017 “Woman of Distinction.” Senator Helming welcomed Ms. Schaertl to Albany on Tuesday, May 9^th, where she was honored at a ceremony with 62 other women from across the state.

“These are remarkable women whose lives, work and accomplishments contribute to enhancing our communities, strengthening our families and serving as role models to others. The Senate’s Women of Distinction program provides an opportunity to honor women, like Donna, for their achievements and to thank them for the pride they bring to their friends and families, and our communities. I am proud to recognize Donna Schaertl as this year’s ‘Woman of Distinction’ for her tireless work, volunteerism and commitment to our community,” said Helming.

Donna Schaertl has dedicated her life to volunteering for causes that protect children from preventable injuries. Inspired by her autistic son Jared who tragically drowned at age four, Donna created the Jared Schaertl Memorial Fund to help make improvements for other autistic children in the community. Additionally, Donna has collaborated with local law enforcement and the Ontario County Safety Council to create the annual bike rodeo and a ‘Shop with a Cop’ program. At the Manchester-Shortsville school district, she teaches fire prevention, a Home Alone Safety Program, and internet and personal protection programs, among numerous other involvements. 

Married to her husband Eric, a veteran of the United State Army, the military life has instilled in her duty, commitment, sacrifice, and resiliency. Donna actively supports the military by collecting items to send to deployed service members, organizing send off and homecoming for local National Guard and Reserve Units, and supporting their families during deployment. Donna helps with the local Blue Star Mother’s group by organizing events to support the Blue Star Canteen located on the grounds of the Canandaigua VA.

The Senate’s “Women of Distinction” Program was created to honor New York women who exemplify personal excellence or whose professional achievements or acts of courage, selflessness, integrity or perseverance serve as an example to all New Yorkers. Donna Schaertl represents the very best of the 54^th Senate District and joins honorees from across the New York at the Senate’s annual “Women of Distinction” tribute. The awards ceremony and reception were held in the Legislative Office Building, where Donna’s biography and photo will be displayed as part of a special Senate exhibit.

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