Ditmas Park Woman Honored for Service to Community

A Ditmas Park woman was recognized for her service and commitment to the community by Kings County District D.A. Hynes Tuesday as part of his seventh annual Extraordinary Women’s event. 

June Rodrigues was one of 33 women honored with the award, which is presented to women who strive to make life better for others and are viewed as role models for their selflessness, dedication and compassionation to their communities, Hynes said. 

When Rodrigues began volunteering at the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) in 2008, NAMI East Flatbush consisted of just two support groups. She was dedicated to improving the lives of those with mental illness, seeking to improve services through education and advocacy.

It was because of Rodrigues that many of the basic NAMI programs at Kings County Hospital exist, including the Kings County community NAMI’s Peer-To-Peer, Family-To-Family and NAMI Conexion, a support group for Spanish speaking adults living with mental illness.

Through her work with NAMI, Rodrigues has been able to help consumers to tap into their own self-worth and strength and take steps towards recovery that they may not have done otherwise.

In recognition of March being Women’s History Month, Hynes unveiled a huge calendar in the lobby of 350 Jay St. that dedicates each day to one of the women recognized (one day was dedicated to a mother, daughter team).   

"It is an honor for me to recognize these women for their outstanding work, which benefits all the people of Brooklyn," Hynes continued. 

Hynes also bestowed the title of Special Ambassador to each of the 33 women in their communities. "The women come from neighborhoods throughout Brooklyn.  The honorees all have one thing in common," Hynes said. "They make Brooklyn a better place to live.” 

The women will be further acknowledged at a ceremony on March 21 at 6 p.m. at Brooklyn Supreme Court located at 320 Jay St.