LORI CASSIA-DECKER, ANGELS OF LIGHT CO-FOUNDER, NAMED 2022 WOMAN OF DISTINCTION NOMINEE FOR THE 41ST DISTRICT

HYDE PARK, NY – Ahead of her Annual Women’s Networking Event, Senator Sue Serino today announced that Lori Cassia-Decker, co-founder of the non-profit organization Angels of Light, has been selected as the Woman of Distinction Nominee for the 41^st Senate District. Serino previously sought input from community members and encouraged individuals to nominate women from across the 41^st Senate District who are making a difference and serving as an inspiration to others.

“Lori Cassia-Decker is a true trailblazer in every sense of the word,” said Senator Sue Serino.  Through Angels of Light, Lori is making a real difference in the lives of children battling life-threatening illnesses, while offering hope and support to their families. In addition to serving more than 1,300 children since launching the organization, Lori also goes above and beyond as a volunteer with numerous community-based organizations, including Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation, the American Heart Association and more. As a local small business owner, Lori has worked to help our neighbors make their health a top priority, and we are grateful for the commitment she has shown to the Hudson Valley over the years. It is my honor to nominate Lori as the 2022 Woman of Distinction for the 41^st Senate District, and I look forward to celebrating her accomplishments at the annual Women’s Networking Event.”

Angels of Light was founded over 20 years ago after Lori’s husband, George, was coaching a young player who was battling a life-threatening illness. After searching for ways to help the player and their family, Lori began a community-wide effort to help ease the stress of other families who may be in a similar situation during the holiday season.

Since their founding, Angels of Light has helped more than 1,300 children and has expanded their mission to assist families year-round with medical bills, utilities, food, gas and more.

Lori is the co-owner of FORZA Fitness in Millbrook and has chaired events for the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation, American Heart Association, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and more. She also serves as a member of the board for the Mid-Hudson Road Runners Club.

The New York State Women of Distinction Award recognizes women from across New York State who greatly contribute to, and improve the quality of life in, both their local communities and the entire State. The NYS Senate will host a virtual program celebrating the honorees from across the State on Women’s Equality Day, Friday, August 26^th.

Senator Serino will recognize Lori and the other women who were nominated for the award by local community members on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, at the Annual Women’s Networking Event she hosts at Locust Grove in Poughkeepsie. Lori will join Alyssa Carrion of Mental Health America of Dutchess County Veterans Programs and Jacqueline Salvatore, Undersheriff of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, in speaking at the event to the theme of ‘Flipping the Script.” To RSVP for this free event, please call Senator Serino’s Hyde Park Office at 845-229-0106 or email serino@nysenate.gov. To learn more, click here.

For more information on Angels of Light and their mission, click here.

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