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Boys & Girls Club Honors Hometown Heroes Of Paterson, Passaic

PATERSON, N.J. -- The Boys & Girls Club of Paterson and Passaic is welcoming folks to join in their celebration of its "2016 Hometown Heroes of Paterson and Passaic" with a beefsteak dinner on Monday, Oct. 24.

Camelia Valdes is among this year's Hometown Heroes honorees.

Camelia Valdes is among this year's Hometown Heroes honorees.

Photo Credit: Boys and Girls Club of Paterson and Passaic Facebook

And it's not too late to buy tickets, Jovannie Lorenzo assured Daily Voice on Thursday. She's the development and marketing manager for the local Boys & Girls Club.

"For us, it's a wonderful thing to be able to honor the men and women who keep our kids safe and are great role models," she added. "The more people we have involved [with the club], the more opportunities our kids have."

At the dinner, the Boys & Girls Club will honor Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia Valdes and four first responders, from Paterson and Passaic police and fire departments.

"Camelia Valdes is a steadfast advocate for the children and families of Passaic County," organizers note.

"Working alongside the Boys & Girls Club, she believes that the Club's programs and services build a strong foundation for learning and that the character and leadership training that Club Kids receive give them the skills they need to become caring, responsible citizens." 

Regarding the police officers and firefighters, they "not only keep our community safe, but provide a critical connection to the families and children in need," organizers continued. They "support the Boys & Girls Club throughout the year and have become important partners in building great futures."

The first responders who will be honored this year are Officer Rene Alicea, of the Paterson Police Department; Officer Luis Delossantos, of the Passaic Police Department; Firefighter Lou Vega, of the Paterson Fire Department; and Firefighter Gary Delgado, of the Passaic Fire Department.

"It's actually my favorite event," Valdes said, "because it's a great, fun evening."

Individual tickets are $65, and you can still buy them online, here. 

There's also still time to place ads in the event journal or become an event sponsor. Sponsorships range from $500 upward. Information is at the same link -- or call Valdes at 973-279-3055, ext. 251.

Some of the current sponsors include Railroad Construction Company, Soundview Paper Company, PSE&G, TD Bank and North Jersey Federal Credit Union.

The event will run from 6-9 p.m. at the Brownstone House, 351 W. Broadway, in Paterson.

The Boys & Girls Club of Paterson and Passaic has served the community for more than 50 years now. It's programs focus on at least one of five core areas: character and leadership; education and career development; health and life skills; visual and performing arts; and sports, fitness and recreation.

The organization has two clubhouses and 10 satellite locations in Paterson and Passaic, and they serve over a thousand kids a day.

For more information about the local Boys & Girls Club, visit its website or Facebook page.

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