Carroll Gardens Activist Honored For Service To Community

A 12-year activist was recognized for her service and commitment to the Carroll Gardens community by Kings County District D.A. Hynes on Tuesday as part of his seventh annual Extraordinary Women event. 

Cynthia Gonzalez 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. 

Gonzalez is known as a "reliable and positive force at Carroll Gardens Association, Inc., where she has volunteered her time selflessly for over a dozen years."

During her tenure as Board Chair for the last six years, Gonzalez has overseen the fiscal recovery of the organization, helping to establish numerous programs for the community, such as free computer training classes; resources for small businesses; counseling for homebuyers to help prevent foreclosures; and the Benefits Assistance Program, which links residents to various government agencies and organizations that provide benefits assistance to low-income residents.

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.